Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 29 July 2026
GWM New Zealand has confirmed the Tank 500 and Cannon Alpha models fitted with the new 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine for the local market.
Alongside this announcement, the brand has opened up orders for these models, which are set to start arriving in September.
Tipped as a better engine for towing, touring, and off-road performance, this 3.0-litre mill produces 170kW and 620Nm of torque.
These represent 35kW and 140Nm increases over the current 2.4-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder engine offered with these vehicles.
It is paired exclusively with GWM’s nine-speed automatic transmission, and the maximum braked tow rating of 3.5-tonnes has remained unchanged.
As for fuel economy, the Tank 500 is rated at 7.1L/100km, while the Cannon Alpha gets an average of 7.3L/100km.
GWM also notes the 3.0-litre displacement figure is the largest currently offered on a four-cylinder turbo diesel engine in the segment.
Alongside the addition of the new engine, the Tank 500 will also be offered with seven seats, something that was only previously available with the HEV model.
These models have also reportedly undertaken more than six months of testing and validation in Australia, at the hands of Product Engineering and Vehicle Dynamics Manager, Rob Trubiani.
Customers are encouraged to register their interest for these new models, and more information will be announced closer to the local launch date.
