The Great Wall Motor (GWM) Tank 300 HEV has taken the off-road world by storm. This colossus is no stranger to tough terrain, and with its impressive hybrid powertrain, it offers a compelling package for Zimbabwean drivers seeking both capability and efficiency. Let’s delve into the key features and performance figures of the Tank 300 HEV to see if it’s the perfect fit for your next adventure.
Built to Conquer: The Tank 300 HEV boasts a powerful ladder frame chassis, making it incredibly rigid and perfect for handling the harshest terrains that Zimbabwe has to offer. Its impressive approach, departure, and break-over angles ensure that you can tackle steep inclines, descents, and uneven surfaces with confidence.
Taming the Engine: A real monster lurks within the engine bay. The Tank 300 HEV combines a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine withan electric motor. This translates to an impressive power output of 270 horsepower and 640 Nm of torque.
That’s more than enough muscle to conquer any off-road challenge you might encounter in Zimbabwe! But the beauty lies in the hybrid system. When venturing off-road, the petrol engine takes centre stage, providing ample power.
However, during highway commutes or city driving, the electric motor can take over, offering excellent fuel efficiency and reduced emissions – a welcome feature for the environment. Let’s not forget it’s impressive fuel efficiency of 8.4Litres per 100km that will have you reaching for your wallet less at service stations.
Geared for Adventure: The Tank 300 HEV comes equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission that seamlessly shifts between gears, ensuring a smooth ride on any terrain. Selectable drive modes allow you to optimise the vehicle’s performance for different conditions, whether you’re cruising on the highway to Bulawayo, navigating rocky terrain on the way to a mine, or meandering the roads less travelled while you are on holiday.
But it isn’t all about the outward looks and performance. Open the door and you’re greeted by a sense of rugged refinement. The generous use of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin gives a premium feel that surpasses expectations for a vehicle in this class.
The star of the show is the dual-screen infotainment system. Two large 12.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard – one for the digital instrument cluster and the other for the central touchscreen.
The instrument cluster offers a customisable layout, allowing you to prioritise the information you need most, while the touchscreen handles everything from navigation and entertainment to climate control.
The Tank 300 HEV doesn’t skimp on comfort features. Heated and ventilated seats are a welcome addition for long journeys, especially in Zimbabwe’s hot climate. Quilted leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury, while ample legroom and headroom ensure a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers.
Despite its rugged exterior, the Tank 300 HEV’s interior designers haven’t forgotten to have a little fun. Unique touches like the airplane-style gear shifter and the fighter jet-inspired grab handle on the passenger side add a playful character to the cabin.
The Verdict: The GWM Tank 300 HEV is a compelling choice for Zimbabwean drivers seeking a vehicle that can handle anything they throw at it in a surprisingly value minded package. Style, practicality, off-road prowess, hybrid efficiency, and impressive performance figures make it a true force to be reckoned with.
Completely supported by ZIMOCO, priced from just USD$63, 300 and mated to a 3year/ 100 000km warranty (and an 8-year warranty on the battery alone) – The GWM Tank 300 HEV can take you from the bustling streets of Harare to the heart of Zimbabwe’s wilderness.