Ciro De Siena puts the GWM Tank 300 Diesel through its paces on urban roads, before tackling tough 4×4 terrain with the help of off-road specialist Kaalvoet Swys.
For GWM South Africa, the addition of a turbocharged 2.4-litre 4-cylinder diesel powerplant to the Tank 300 range, which was only available as turbopetrol and hybrid guises at launch, is a game-changer.
Beyond lowering the range’s entry price, it’s a clear statement from GWM that it wants to challenge the status quo in the Adventure SUV segment by delivering the powertrain favoured by South African off-road enthusiasts. Diesels, with their superior low-end torque for crawling and climbing, and often better fuel efficiency for extended overland trips, offer advantages when tackling demanding 4×4 conditions.
A refined family car during the week…
Ciro begins with a thorough on-road evaluation to assess the GWM’s suitability as a family car. Despite its body-on-frame construction, the Tank 300 Diesel quickly impresses with its impressive refinement.
Its suspension absorbs bumps with composure, ensuring a smooth ride, and road noise is remarkably well managed, contributing to a quiet cabin. The 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine’s seamless delivery of its 135 kW and 480 Nm of torque makes commuting and longer highway drives feel relaxed and effortless.
Beyond its composed on-road manners, the Tank 300 has an impressively premium interior (for an off-roader, let alone one that costs R740k), including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and, on the 2.4T Ultra Luxury 4×4, Nappa-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, with electric adjustment, including lumbar (and massage and memory functions) for the driver, plus a 360-degree camera setup.
… And an off-road beast at the weekend
The GWM Tank 300 truly distinguishes itself in off-road conditions, however. After a stint on tarmac, the review pivots to challenging terrain, with Ciro (above right) joined by acclaimed off-road expert Kaalvoet Swys (Francois Marais). Ciro pushes the Tank 300 Diesel to its limits on a demanding 4×4 course, revealing exactly how the SUV’s comprehensive off-road hardware performs where it matters most.
The GWM Tank 300’s arsenal includes an advanced part-time 4-wheel-drive system with low-range, ensuring the vehicle is well-prepared for steep inclines, loose rocks, mud, and technical descents.
See also: GWM Tank 500 vs Toyota Land Cruiser Prado | Comprehensive off-road comparison
The 7 all-terrain drive modes – selectable via a dial on the centre console – allow the Chinese Adventure SUV to adapt its traction and transmission mapping for everything from sand to snow or deep ruts.
Critical to conquering more serious obstacles are the front and rear differential locks, which, when combined with the low-range transfer case and crawl control, enable the GWM Tank 300 Diesel to maintain composed progress even in the trickiest conditions.
As the course becomes tougher, the GWM Tank 300 Diesel’s reinforced brakes, suspension, and chassis – built to absorb rough impacts – are put to the test. The SUV remains composed, with the drivetrain and electronic aids responding to ensure forward momentum and driver confidence across every section.
Throughout the adventure, Ciro and Kaalvoet Swys note the suspension’s ability to balance off-road ruggedness with on-road smoothness, plus the on- and off-road advantages of the turbodiesel engine (such as notable fuel economy) compared with petrol or hybrid powertrains. And, for those who tow trailers or boats, the 3-tonne (braked) capacity certainly adds to the GWM Tank 300 Diesel’s appeal.
See also: 2025 CarsAwards: Best Adventure SUV in South Africa
How much does the GWM Tank 300 cost in SA?
| 2.4T Super Luxury 4WD | R699 900 |
| 2.0T Super Luxury 4×4 | R729 950 |
| 2.4T Ultra Luxury 4×4 | R739 900 |
| 2.0T Ultra Luxury 4×4 | R779 950 |
| 2.0T HEV Super Luxury 4×4 | R855 950 |
| 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury 4×4 | R929 950 |
Prices (July 2025) include GWM SA’s 7-year/200 000 km warranty and 7-year/75 000 km service plan.
New GWM Tank 300 Specs & Prices in South Africa
Find a new/used GWM Tank 300 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Based on its ability to tackle tough off-road challenges without compromising on comfort or practicality, the Tank 300 Diesel is a genuine contender in the Adventure SUV and broader off-roader market.
Even if it’s a 5-seater, the combination of off-road hardware, luxury kit and even refinement makes the GWM a credible rival to established models such as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Ford Everest.
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