GWM has been spotted testing a diesel version of its Tank 300 in Australia, which is expected to become an option for the 2025 model year update. It would join the existing turbo-petrol and turbo-petrol hybrid options.
The spy video below was sent into us, showing a prototype Tank 300 with camouflage body wrapping hiding a unique beige panel colour. However, the biggest news comes in the form of what the driver was putting in the fuel tank.
The vehicle was spotted at Tarcutta Ampol filling up with a blank bowser. After double-checking on Google Maps for that exact pump, there is only one black-handled hose on that cluster and it is for Vortex Diesel.
According to a recent post on Facebook by GWM Tank 300 Owners Australia group, GWM does indeed have plans to introduce a diesel and it is set to be the 2.4-litre four-cylinder from the Cannon Alpha. A presentation shows evidence of the same 135kW and 480Nm outputs.
This is an interesting choice especially when so many brands are turning away from diesel options, and some seemingly not interested in any combustion engine unless it has some form of electrification. In recent months, some carmakers are now flipping back on such a firm EV push, or at least winding back slightly.
With the 2025 GWM Tank 300 diesel, it should be an interesting option because its closest competitor, in terms of capability and focus, is the Jeep Wrangler. And Jeep dropped the diesel a couple of years ago. In other words, the Tank 300 will be one of the only hardcore diesel off-roaders on sale.
That is, of course, excluding the seven-seater models such as the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, and Toyota Prado/Fortuner. All of which compete in the same vehicle category according to VFACTS.
It’s unknown at this stage if the diesel will continue with the same rear axle hopping situation under heavy braking as the petrol model. We tested the hybrid and it did not pop the back wheels into the air, only the petrol did.
GWM could (hopefully) apply some revisions for the 2025 update to help eliminate the issue for the petrol model. But we’ll have to wait and see and test it to know for sure. Some official information is expected to roll out soon.
