If you’ve been eagerly waiting for a diesel-powered GWM Tank 500 in Australia, you’ll need to exercise a bit more patience. While the 2.4-litre turbo-diesel produces 135kW and 480Nm of torque in the Thai-market Tank 500, Australian buyers won’t be seeing this engine option anytime soon.
Why Australia is Missing Out on the Current Diesel Option
GWM Australia has confirmed our Tank 500 will continue to be sourced from China, while the diesel variant is being manufactured in Thailand. This geographical sourcing difference creates the first hurdle for Australian availability.
More importantly, GWM believes Australian conditions and consumer expectations demand something more substantial. “Some powertrain, especially [in] the high-end SUV, will need the high-torque [engine],” GWM International vice president James Yang told Australian media. The company’s research suggests that while the 2.4-litre diesel works well for Thai market conditions, Australia’s vast distances and diverse terrain require greater pulling power.
What’s Different About the Thai Diesel Model
The diesel-powered model is distinguished by a repositioned spare wheel, mounted under the vehicle instead of on the tailgate. This practical design change accommodates the different weight distribution of the diesel engine while maintaining the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
Thai customers can choose between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations, giving them flexibility based on their specific needs and budget considerations.
The More Powerful Alternative Coming to Australia
Australian Tank 500 enthusiasts won’t be left empty-handed. GWM has previously hinted the Tank 500 will gain an upcoming four-cylinder 3.0-litre turbo-diesel in Australia. The bigger new engine, due for release around 2027, will also be fitted to the Cannon Alpha and Tank 700 off-road SUV, producing more power and torque than the brand’s existing 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre oilers.
This strategic decision means Australian customers will ultimately receive a more capable engine option, even though they must wait longer for it. The 3.0-litre unit promises to deliver the high-torque performance that GWM believes the Australian market demands.
Current Engine Options in Australia
While waiting for the diesel, Australian Tank 500 buyers currently have access to a 2.0-litre hybrid petrol engine that produces 255kW/648Nm and is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. This hybrid powertrain offers impressive performance figures and excellent fuel efficiency for everyday driving.
GWM’s Broader Australian Strategy
The decision to delay the diesel option fits into GWM’s larger Australian market strategy. GWM wants to be a top-five automotive brand in Australia by 2030, with plans to surpass 50,000 sales this year and reach 75,000 annual deliveries by the end of the decade.
Balancing Emissions and Performance
GWM believes it can offset the emissions of its turbo-diesel offerings with a range of hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs). This approach allows them to offer high-performance diesel engines while maintaining their overall fleet emissions compliance.
Future Powertrain Mix
James Yang outlined GWM’s vision for the Australian market: “So in the future, I think the Australian market, the PHEV, and HEV, plus diesel is a good choice for the customer… and also we have the EV, but I think for some scenarios the sales volume can be not very high”.
What This Means for Current and Future Buyers
Current Tank 500 buyers aren’t necessarily missing out. The existing hybrid powertrain delivers strong performance and comes with comprehensive features. However, those specifically seeking diesel power for heavy towing or extended range will benefit from waiting for the 3.0-litre option.
Pricing and Availability
Current Tank 500 pricing starts around $65,490 driveaway, making it competitive in the large SUV segment. The upcoming diesel variant pricing hasn’t been announced, but it will likely command a premium over the current hybrid model.
| Specification | Current Australia | Thailand Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Hybrid Petrol | 2.4L Turbo Diesel |
| Power Output | 255kW/648Nm | 135kW/480Nm |
| Drive Options | AWD Standard | RWD/AWD Available |
| Spare Wheel Location | Tailgate Mounted | Under-vehicle |
| Availability | Current | Not for Australia |
| Expected Diesel for Australia | 3.0L (2027) | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the 2.4L diesel eventually come to Australia?
A: No, GWM Australia has confirmed they’re waiting for the more powerful 3.0L diesel engine instead, expected around 2027.
Q: How does the current hybrid compare to diesel power?
A: The hybrid actually produces more power (255kW vs 135kW) but diesel typically offers better torque delivery and range for heavy-duty applications.
Q: Can I import a Thai-spec diesel Tank 500?
A: While technically possible, compliance costs, warranty issues, and parts availability make this impractical for most buyers.
