Great Wall Motor (GWM) is moving upmarket. The manufacturer has confirmed that its upcoming flagship SUV, the Tank 800, is destined for the Australian market, where it is expected to compete directly with established luxury off-road icons.
Spotted recently in prototype form in Baoding, China, the Tank 800 represents a significant leap in GWM’s ambitions. Unlike its smaller siblings, this model is being developed on a dedicated, larger ladder-frame platform designed to support a high-performance V8 engine.
A New Powerhouse: The Return of the V8
In an era where many traditional heavyweights are downsizing, GWM is taking a different path. The Tank 800 will feature a brand-new “hot vee” V8 engine, featuring twin turbos positioned between the cylinder heads.
This move is strategically significant for the Australian market. While competitors like the Toyota LandCruiser and Lexus LX have moved away from V8 engines, and the Nissan Patrol transitions to a twin-turbo V6, GWM aims to capture enthusiasts who still demand the torque and presence of a large-displacement engine.
To balance this power with modern environmental requirements, GWM plans to integrate the V8 into hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) systems. This approach is crucial for navigating Australia’s tightening New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES), ensuring the vehicle remains compliant while delivering high performance.
Scaling Up: Size and Luxury
The Tank 800 is positioned as a true full-size SUV, expected to offer three rows of seating. To understand its scale, one only needs to look at the current Tank 700:
– Length: 5,105mm
– Width: 2,061mm
– Height: 1,985mm
These dimensions already exceed those of the Toyota LandCruiser, suggesting the Tank 800 will be a massive presence on the road.
Furthermore, GWM is expanding its premium reach through its Wey sub-brand. While the Tank brand focuses on rugged, body-on-frame off-roaders, the Wey brand is intended to provide high-end luxury, with models like the Wey V9X and the Gaoshan/G9 people mover currently under consideration for international markets.
The Premium Price Point
The Tank 800 will likely represent a new price ceiling for GWM in Australia. While the current top-tier Tank 500 retails for approximately $76,990, industry analysts expect the Tank 800 to exceed the $100,000 mark.
If this projection holds, the Tank 800 will join a select group of high-end Chinese imports, such as the Zeekr 009 and MG Cyberster, competing in a space traditionally dominated by Japanese and European luxury brands.
| Model | Estimated/Current Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tank 500 (Current Flagship) | ~$77,000 (Drive-away) |
| Tank 800 (Projected) | $100,000+ |
| Nissan Patrol | ~$110,660+ |
| Toyota LandCruiser 300 | ~$147,910+ |
Looking Ahead
The Tank 800 is expected to be revealed in its production form later this year, with a local Australian launch slated for 2027.
This move signals GWM’s transition from a budget-friendly manufacturer to a serious contender in the premium, heavy-duty SUV segment.
Conclusion
By combining a large-displacement V8 with hybrid technology and massive dimensions, GWM is attempting to disrupt the luxury off-road market. The Tank 800’s success will depend on whether Australian buyers are ready to trade traditional Japanese reliability for high-spec Chinese luxury.
