GWM PH to expand Tank sub-brand with new model?

GWM gets approval for a 2.0-liter SUV

It’s a good time to shop for a 4x4 SUV nowadays, as brands continue to roll out models packed with a lot of go-anywhere capabilities and competitive pricing both in the premium and volume sectors.

One such example is the GWM Tank 300. With front and rear diff locks, multiple terrain modes, a robust ladder frame chassis, and a trick “Tank turn” function, GWM is challenging the likes of the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler by offering more tech in a lower price point.

But now, it looks like GWM is set to expand the Tank sub-brand in the country. We recently got hold of information that GWM has received an approval for a vehicle with a 1998cc gasoline engine that has a curb weight of 2455 kg.

Since a lot of GWM models share similar powertrains with each other, we can’t exactly point out which vehicle are they looking to bring in the country. However, the heavy curb weight suggests this could be a ladder frame SUV which narrows down the list to two models – the Tank 300 Hi4-T PHEV and the Tank 400 Hi4-T PHEV.

What’s interesting is that both models share the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbo unit that comes with plug-in hybrid. The ICE alone already makes 251 PS and 380 Nm of torque. But combined with the electric motor powered by a 37 kWh lithium-ternary battery pack, you’re looking at a combined system output of 414 PS and 750 Nm of torque. Both get a 9-speed automatic hybrid transmission and 4WD system with locking differentials.

Not only does the power become useful for getting out of sticky situations off-road, but the PHEV architecture also allows the SUVs to run on electric power alone for up to 105 km using the CLTC cycle. Also, it can supply power for your campsite as it has a vehicle-to-load function.

Which one do you think will be offered? The Tank 300 or the Tank 400 with Hi4-T PHEV? Let us know in the comments.