GWM Tank 400 vs Toyota Fortuner: A New Contender in the Hybrid SUV Market

While GWM has expressed interest in bringing the Tank 400 to countries like Australia and New Zealand, it hasn’t yet committed to a specific timeline.

In Australia, for example, GWM’s local branch is still prioritizing the Tank 300 and the upcoming Tank 500, with the Tank 400 remaining in consideration but not confirmed for release

This trend indicates the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in regions where RHD is the standard, like Australia, Thailand, and possibly the UK.

Since GWM has successfully launched the Tank 300 in Australia and may bring the Tank 500 soon, there’s potential for the Tank 400 to follow in right-hand-drive configurations, but no confirmed release timeline has been provided yet for RHD markets

It boasts a 105 km all-electric range, making it an eco-friendly choice for those who need off-road capability without high emissions.

Toyota Fortuner: The Fortuner typically comes with traditional internal combustion engines, including diesel options. The top models have a 2.8-litre diesel engine that produces around 201 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.

While it doesn’t offer hybrid power, it has a proven record of durability and fuel efficiency in both city and off-road environments​

2. Off-Road Capabilities

GWM Tank 400: Designed with off-roading in mind, the Tank 400 offers advanced features like a 4WD system with locking differentials,

a high ground clearance of 224mm, and a water-wading depth of up to 800mm. This makes it highly competitive for rough terrains and challenging trails​

Toyota Fortuner: The Fortuner is similarly equipped for off-road adventures, with a 4WD system, durable suspension, and a well-known capability for handling rugged conditions.

Its ground clearance and water-wading capacity are generally slightly less than the Tank 400, but it remains a trusted choice in the off-road community.

3. Interior and Technology

GWM Tank 400: Known for a luxury-inspired design, the Tank 400 has a modern, tech-loaded cabin with a 16.2-inch infotainment system, multiple digital displays, and premium materials like leather seats and a crystal-finish gear selector.

It also includes amenities such as wireless charging, three-zone climate control, and a panoramic camera system

Toyota Fortuner: The Fortuner, while more traditional, offers a durable and comfortable interior with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 9-speaker JBL audio system (in high-end models), and Toyota’s Safety Sense suite.

It emphasizes reliability and functionality but lacks some of the luxury elements found in the Tank 400​.

4. Market Position and Price

GWM Tank 400: Priced to be competitive, especially in Asian markets, the Tank 400 offers a lot of high-end features for its price, positioning it as an affordable luxury off-roader.

Its appeal is largely among younger buyers seeking adventure vehicles with advanced tech.

Toyota Fortuner: Positioned as a more conservative, dependable choice, the Fortuner is priced slightly higher but is known for excellent resale value and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.

It appeals to buyers looking for a robust, family-oriented SUV.

5. Design

GWM Tank 400: The Tank 400 has a “mecha” or futuristic style with bold angular lines, prominent LED lighting, and a rugged, aggressive exterior that sets it apart visually

Toyota Fortuner: The Fortuner sports a more refined, classic SUV look with softer lines and a functional design. It’s recognized for its elegant simplicity, appealing to those who prefer a timeless, low-profile aesthetic

In summary, the GWM Tank 400 is an innovative, tech-forward option aimed at adventurous drivers interested in hybrid performance and off-road capability,

while the Toyota Fortuner offers tried-and-true reliability, straightforward luxury, and robust off-road features.

Muscular Body: The overall body design is boxy and sturdy, with pronounced fenders and sharp lines. This shape enhances its ruggedness and hints at its durability for rough terrains.

The fenders are riveted with the body and remain exposed for a tough appearance. A similar design SUV also available in the Chinese market is Dongfeng M-Hero 917 which has a boxy angular design.

Functional Off-Road Elements: High ground clearance and a spare tyre mounted on the rear add to its utilitarian feel.

The SUV also has protective cladding around the wheel arches and lower body panels, which not only complements its off-road-ready look but also offers additional protection from rough conditions.

Modern Tech Elements: LED lighting is used throughout, including in the headlights, taillights, and fog lights, adding a high-tech feel to its rugged appearance. The roof features rails for added utility, accommodating storage and other outdoor equipment.

Impressive Dimensions: With dimensions of about 4985 mm in length, 1960 mm in width, and 1905 mm in height, the Tank 400 is a substantial SUV. This larger footprint enhances its presence on the road and provides a spacious cabin for passengers

Foot Rest: This SUV comes with an auto-retractable side footrest. As you open the door it automatically comes out and hides as you close the door.

It a necessary to have side footsteps because this SUV has high ground clearance and a large size to make passengers comfortably get inside.

ORVMs: The outer side rear view mirrors are large rectangular in shape matching the overall appearance of the Tank 400. gives a good view of behind traffic.

These ORVMs are electrically adjustable and fold/unfold automatically as you lock and unlock the car. Besides this LED turn signal and camera come built with it.

Alloy Wheels: The Tank 400 comes equipped with a 265/65 R18 tyre and an 18-inch six-spoke alloy wheel.

These alloy wheels look as tough as the suv and match the overall design of the car.

Off-Road Capabilities: The Tank 400 has an approach angle of 33 degrees and a departure angle of 30 degrees. Besides this Tank 400 has 224 mm of ground clearance.

The GWM Tank 400’s design combines classic off-road SUV characteristics with modern details, making it a visually appealing choice for those seeking both style and rugged functionality in a PHEV SUV.

Additionally, there’s a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that provides essential driving information in a clear, customizable format, and an available heads-up display (HUD) that projects key data onto the windshield for convenience​

Comfort-Oriented Layout: The cabin layout emphasizes both functionality and comfort, with premium materials used throughout. The seats are spacious and supportive, suitable for longer journeys and off-road adventures alike.

The use of soft-touch materials and a well-organized centre console adds a sense of luxury, while also providing practical storage options, like cupholders and a large gear selector.

Off-Road Controls: The Tank 400 is equipped with a drive mode selector on the centre console, allowing the driver to switch between various terrain modes such as two-wheel drive (2H), all-wheel drive (AWD), and low-range four-wheel drive (4L).

These controls are arranged for easy access and usability, enhancing the vehicle’s off-road focus.

Advanced Connectivity: The infotainment system supports smartphone integration and offers Bluetooth, navigation, and voice-activated controls, making it convenient to manage various vehicle functions and stay connected on the go.

Utility Features: Wireless phone charging pads, USB ports, and a rear-view mirror screen enhance convenience.

The spacious interior also provides ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a versatile option for families or adventure enthusiasts​

Ambient Lighting and Premium Feel: The Tank 400 incorporates ambient lighting, enhancing the cabin’s modern feel.

This feature adds a customizable touch, especially during night drives, creating a refined atmosphere that contrasts with the SUV’s rugged exterior

IRVMS: This SUV’s inner view mirror is a digital screen. a camera at the rear shows the world behind the car.

The Brightness of the screen can be adjusted according to you and it works perfectly day as well as night.

Seats: This Tank 400 is a five-seater SUV instead of the third row you will get a large luggage area which is enough for outdoor activity.

Front seats are electrically adjustable and these seats also feature heated and massage functions.

To activate these functions you have got buttons behind the gear knob as you can see in the image. both front seats have heated and ventilated functions.

Sunroof: This SUV has a small panoramic sunroof and to open and close the sunroof you will get buttons near the front roof lamp.

Power Socket: This car has a sufficient amount of charging ports. up front, you have wireless charging ports. and the front centre armrest has C-type and A-type charging ports along with a 12v power socket.

And at the rear, you have a power socket to operate your electrical devices.

Overall, the GWM Tank 400’s interior combines rugged functionality with advanced technology and comfort, offering a blend suited for both urban and off-road environments.

Ample Cargo Space: With its sizeable dimensions, the Tank 400 provides a spacious cargo area that can accommodate luggage, gear, and other items.

The rear cargo space is designed to handle large loads, ideal for road trips or carrying outdoor equipment.

Flexible Seating Configuration: The rear seats can typically be folded down to create a flat loading floor, significantly expanding the cargo area for bulky items.

This flexibility is beneficial for users who need to transport larger objects occasionally, like camping gear or sports equipment.

Interior Storage Compartments: Throughout the cabin, the Tank 400 includes multiple storage options, such as a roomy centre console, door pockets, cupholders, and smaller compartments for items like phones, keys, or wallets.

These compartments make it easier for passengers to keep personal belongings organized and within reach.

Roof Rails for Additional Storage: The Tank 400 is equipped with roof rails, adding to its practicality for carrying extra cargo.

Roof racks or storage boxes can be mounted for trips requiring additional storage space, such as for transporting bikes, kayaks, or camping equipment.

Off-Road Utility and Durability: The interior and cargo area are designed to withstand rugged use.

Protective materials and finishes in high-contact areas enhance durability, making it easier to clean and maintain the SUV after off-road excursions.

Passenger Comfort and Space: With a focus on practicality, the Tank 400’s cabin offers ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it comfortable for families or groups on long drives.

This layout supports its versatility as both a daily driver and a vehicle for extended adventures.

These features make the GWM Tank 400 a practical choice for users needing versatile storage and the ability to adapt to various activities and terrains

On-road performance: On highways and city roads, the ride is comfortable, thanks to its adaptive suspension system. It feels stable and composed, even at higher speeds, although it might feel a bit heavy in tighter corners.

Off-road capability: This is where the Tank 400 excels. It’s built to handle rough terrains, featuring advanced 4WD systems and a solid ground clearance.

Whether it’s rocks, sand, or muddy trails, it can handle a wide variety of obstacles, making it ideal for adventurous drives.

Overall, driving the GWM Tank 400 feels like commanding a rugged, versatile vehicle that’s capable in a variety of environments.

It’s less about sleek, high-speed driving and more about a controlled, powerful, and secure driving experience, particularly in tough conditions.

Key Features of Hi4-T Technology

1. Hybrid Power (Hi)

The hybrid system typically includes both a combustion engine and an electric motor. This combination allows the vehicle to operate using the engine, the electric motor, or both, depending on driving conditions and power demands.

The system optimizes power output by switching between different modes (pure electric, hybrid, or combined), thus reducing fuel consumption and emissions, especially in city driving.

2. Intelligent Control (i)

Hi4-T technology incorporates intelligent control systems that automatically decide the most efficient driving mode based on real-time conditions.

This includes features like regenerative braking, which recaptures energy during braking to recharge the battery, as well as intelligent torque distribution that optimizes power delivery to each wheel.

3. Four-Wheel Drive (4)

This technology uses a four-wheel drive system that enables better traction, stability, and handling, especially on slippery or rugged terrains.

Hi4-T systems often feature electric motors on the rear axle that provide power independently of the front engine.

This setup allows all-wheel drive capability even when the engine is off, such as during electric-only driving, enhancing traction in challenging conditions.

4. Turbocharged Engine (T)

The turbocharged engine provides additional power when needed, which is especially useful for off-road conditions or high-speed driving.

A smaller, turbocharged engine can deliver strong performance without requiring a large engine, which contributes to both fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Enhanced Performance: The system’s four-wheel-drive capability and turbocharged engine make it responsive, especially in conditions requiring higher torque and traction.

Reduced Emissions: Hi4-T technology reduces emissions through the use of electric power in low-demand driving situations.

Adaptability: Hi4-T is versatile and can handle different driving scenarios, from urban environments to rough terrains, thanks to its ability to switch between front-wheel, rear-wheel, and all-wheel drive.

In low-power scenarios, such as city driving, the system may rely solely on the electric motor. For more demanding driving, such as highway speeds or off-road situations,

the system uses both the turbocharged engine and electric motor(s) to maximize power and maintain the all-wheel drive.

Overall

Hi4-T technology is designed to provide the best of both worlds, blending fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness with powerful, versatile performance.

It’s particularly appealing to drivers looking for an eco-conscious vehicle that doesn’t compromise on capability.