By Prashirwin Naidu
With the Easter break upon us, it is important to take a moment to think about safety on our roads. This time of year is often marked by a sharp rise in accidents, many of them serious and sometimes fatal. The reality is that a crash can happen in an instant, no matter how careful we think we are. I speak from experience. I was recently involved in an accident myself. Thankfully, no one was hurt and we walked away safe, but it was a sobering reminder of how quickly things can go wrong. As you prepare for your journey this Easter, please take extra care. Whether you are travelling far or just around the corner, stay alert and prioritise safety. It truly can make all the difference.
While trying to beat the early morning traffic after picking up my colleagues for the 80 kilometre commute to Xploreza’s offices, I found myself deep in thought. We had just pulled away from the Engen garage opposite the University of the Witwatersrand and were about to join the M1 freeway when a reckless driver in a Toyota Corolla swerved straight into my lane, forcing me out. I reacted instinctively, dodging him like a bullet and veering the GWM Tank 500 HEV onto the embankment. In a split second, we avoided what could have been a serious crash. The impact with the curb was hard and a tyre burst. I tried to get the driver to stop, but continuing the chase would have destroyed the rim. So, we pulled over.
In that moment, everything changed. My colleagues and I were shaken, and the day
took a dramatic turn. We caught our breath and waited on the side of the highway as traffic sped past. I was determined to get the Tank 500 back on the road. Thankfully, a kind metro police officer stopped and helped us out. With his support, we were soon moving again.
We decided to call it a day. Sometimes, too much chaos early on throws off the rhythm. But as I cruised back home, my thoughts returned to the Tank 500 – and this time, with a fresh perspective. I had not been too excited about this luxury cruiser at first, but that was beginning to change.
The Design
It is bold, flashy and commands attention wherever it goes. It almost feels like GWM
built the Tank 500 to steal the spotlight from rivals like the Toyota Prado, Ford Everest and Isuzu mu-X. No shade – those are excellent SUVs in their own right.
The Tank 500 is clearly aimed at buyers who value comfort and want a vehicle with
serious road presence.
At R1 222 900, it leans towards the pricier side when compared to its more established competitors, but it certainly makes a strong case for itself. Every detail of the Tank 500 says, “Look at me” – in the best way possible. The bold front grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, automatic side steps and panoramic sunroof all come together to create an SUV that feels luxurious and unapologetically confident.
Interior
Inside, the vibe is undeniably premium. I loved the classic analogue clock tucked into the dash – a charming nod to old-school luxury. Then there’s the massive 14.6-inch infotainment screen, paired with a fully digital driver display. The tech offering is impressive. Whether you prefer tactile buttons or live for touchscreens, the Tank caters to both, giving you easy access to everything from air conditioning to drive modes.
What really stood out for me were the Nappa leather-accented seats. They offer an 8-point massage function and are both heated and ventilated. Comfort is next level. At night, the ambient lighting adds a layer of finesse – especially the starry panel on the dashboard in front of the passenger seat, which is a real conversation starter. The 12-speaker Infinity sound system delivers crisp, clear audio, and the Heads-Up Display brings in that added touch of convenience and class.
Safety
When it comes to safety, the Tank 500 holds its own with a 5-Star ANCAP rating. It
comes packed with a solid mix of active and passive features designed to keep you and your passengers protected. These include Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Collision Warning, Cross Traffic Alert, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, Auto Intelligent Parking, and a 360-degree camera – a real lifesaver when navigating tight spaces.
The Drive
Here’s where things start to slip slightly. GWM has carried over the same engine from the smaller, lighter Tank 300 into the much heavier 2,605kg Tank 500. And you can feel it. There’s a noticeable delay in throttle response – it lacks the urgency and engagement you might expect. That said, once it gets moving, the Tank delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The nine-speed automatic gearbox could also do with a bit more polish. Smoother shifts would certainly elevate the overall driving experience. Fuel consumption came in at 13 litres per 100 kilometres. I wasn’t pushing it, just cruising, so I expected better, especially from a hybrid. The torque delivery is decent, but efficiency left me underwhelmed.
As for off-roading, my highway incident meant I had to park that plan. On paper, though, the Tank 500 is well prepared with 11 all-terrain drive modes, including Sport, Snow, Sand, Rock and Expert. It is clearly built to take on more than just the daily commute.
One area where GWM shines is after-sales support. The Tank 500 comes with a seven-year or 200 000 kilometre warranty, an eight-year or 150 000 kilometre battery warranty, seven years of unlimited roadside assistance, and a five-year or 75000 kilometre service plan. That kind of cover is rare and offers solid peace of mind.
Would I go all in on the Tank 500? Maybe. I loved the tech, the plush cabin and the premium touches. The engine and fuel economy were a letdown, but to be fair, the Chinese are making serious strides. There’s more to come, and more in the tank if you ask me.
