The Hybrid Beast: GWM Haval Tank 500 HEV – True Luxury Off-Roader Meets Fuel Efficiency in Pakistan
Vibe Check: The Land Cruiser Prado Rival
The GWM Haval Tank 500 HEV is Great Wall Motor’s flagship luxury 7-seater SUV, directly targeting the legacy of vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Fortuner. It is one of the most expensive Chinese luxury vehicles to enter the market, combining old-school body-on-frame toughness with a cutting-edge hybrid powertrain.
1. Specifications and Performance (Raw Power, Hybrid Efficiency)
The Tank 500 HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) is engineered for robust performance, especially at low speeds.
| Feature | Tank 500 HEV Specification | The Vibe for Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged Petrol Engine + Electric Motor | A modern, high-output engine delivering massive combined power. |
| Combined Output | 346 HP @ 6000 RPM / 648 Nm of Torque | Exceptional power and torque figures, ensuring quick acceleration (0-100 km/h in 7.3 sec). |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Hybrid Automatic Transmission (9HAT) | Ensures smooth gear changes and optimal energy efficiency. |
| Fuel Economy | Estimated 10 – 15 KM/L (Combined) | Excellent mileage for a body-on-frame, 7-seater SUV of this size. |
2. Off-Road and Capability (The True 4×4)
The Tank 500 is built to be a genuine off-roader, unlike most unibody crossovers.
- Drivetrain: Features a sophisticated Full-time 4WD system with selectable driving modes.
- Hardware: Equipped with a low-range transfer case and front, centre, and rear differential locks (in some variants). These mechanical locks are crucial for extreme 4x4ing.
- Clearance/Wading: 213 mm Ground Clearance and an impressive 800mm wading depth.
3. Interior & Luxury (The Moving Palace)
The cabin is designed to rival top European luxury SUVs.
- Seating: 7-seater configuration with seats wrapped in the finest Nappa leather.
- Comfort Features: Massaging, Heated, Ventilated, and Memory Seats for the front passengers. The second row is also ventilated.
- Digital Cockpit: A huge 14.6-inch Central Infotainment Screen and a 12.3-inch Digital Gauge Cluster.
- Premium Touches: Electric Side Steps, a large Panoramic Sunroof, and a premium 12-speaker Infinity sound system.
4. The Review Buzz: Is the Tank Worth the Price?
The price tag (around PKR 45,058,000 for the HEV High variant) places it firmly in the niche luxury segment.
The Good (The Zabardast Points)
- Unbeatable Power-to-Price: The Tank 500 HEV offers significantly more power and features for a lower price than its main competitor, the Toyota Prado.
- Supreme Luxury: The interior features (Massage Seats, Nappa Leather, 14.6-inch screen) are luxury class and surpass rivals in Pakistan.
- Hybrid Fuel Savings: The 10-15 km/L mileage is remarkable for a powerful, body-on-frame 7-seater.
The Drawbacks (The Challenging Points)
- Prestige and Resale: The biggest challenge is overcoming the established brand prestige and unproven resale value compared to Toyota Land Cruiser models.
- Hybrid Off-Road Transition: Some global reviews note a slight, noticeable hesitation in the transition from electric to petrol power during aggressive driving.
- Size and Bulk: The large dimensions and hefty kerb weight can make it cumbersome in very tight city streets.
5. Final Verdict: Dominance with a Difference
The GWM Haval Tank 500 HEV is a true statement of intent. It is a compelling alternative for Pakistan’s discerning elite.
* Buy it if: You need a genuine off-road SUV (body-on-frame) with high-end mechanical capability and you refuse to compromise on modern luxury, technology, or fuel efficiency.
* Skip it if: Brand prestige and legendary resale value are your absolute top priorities, or if you prefer a vehicle with a smaller footprint for strictly city use.
The Tank 500 is a moving palace ready to dominate every terrain.