The Australian automotive market is about to witness a striking new entrant with the GWM Tank 500 Vanta, a luxurious hybrid off-roader dressed in an all-black styling package. Scheduled for customer deliveries in early July 2025, this flagship variant of the Tank 500 series from Great Wall Motors (GWM) promises to combine rugged capability with a bold aesthetic, targeting buyers seeking individuality and premium features. Priced at $75,990 drive-away, the Vanta builds on the Tank 500 Ultra grade, offering a factory-fitted visual upgrade that elevates its road presence. This article explores the Tank 500 Vanta’s design, specifications, market positioning, and its significance in GWM’s growing Australian lineup.
A Dramatic Design Statement
The GWM Tank 500 Vanta is designed to stand out, embracing a “dark, dramatic twist” on the luxury off-roader. Unlike its chrome-heavy siblings, the Vanta swaps out shiny accents for a sleek, all-black aesthetic, creating a commanding presence. Available exclusively in Crystal Black, the Vanta features a range of exterior enhancements that give it a distinctive edge:
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Gloss black front grille badging and black bumper inserts for a stealthy look.
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Blacked-out headlight internals, tail-light surrounds, and rear diffuser for cohesive styling.
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Gloss black door handles, roof rails, and window trim for a streamlined appearance.
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Black 18-inch alloy wheels paired with red brake calipers for a sporty contrast.
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Black scuff plates and a blacked-out spare wheel cover to complete the package.
According to Steve Maciver, Head of Marketing & Communications at GWM Australia, “The Vanta treatment adds a new level of personalisation and visual impact, appealing to customers who want to stand out with confidence and style.” This styling approach aligns with the growing trend of blacked-out editions in the Australian market, as seen with models like the Haval H6 Vanta. However, the Tank 500 Vanta takes this concept to a larger, more premium canvas, positioning it as GWM’s most expensive vehicle in Australia to date.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Tank 500 Vanta retains the hybrid powertrain of the Ultra grade, ensuring a balance of performance and efficiency. It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 255 kW of power and 648 Nm of torque. This power is channeled through a nine-speed automatic transmission to an all-wheel-drive system, making the Vanta capable of tackling both urban streets and off-road adventures.
The Tank 500 Vanta’s hybrid system is designed to offer competitive fuel economy, with GWM claiming a consumption rate of approximately 9.8 L/100 km. Its off-road credentials are bolstered by a 224 mm ground clearance, a 3000 kg braked towing capacity, and a dual-range transfer case. These specifications make it a direct competitor to established players like the Toyota LandCruiser Prado and Ford Everest, though at a more accessible price point.
GWM Tank 500 Vanta Key Specifications
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Feature |
Details |
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Price |
$75,990 drive-away |
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Engine |
2.0L turbo-petrol hybrid |
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Power/Torque |
255 kW / 648 Nm |
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Transmission |
Nine-speed automatic |
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Drive Type |
All-wheel drive |
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Fuel Consumption |
9.8 L/100 km (claimed) |
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Ground Clearance |
224 mm |
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Towing Capacity |
3000 kg (braked), 750 kg (unbraked) |
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Warranty |
7-year/unlimited-kilometer |
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ANCAP Safety Rating |
5 stars |
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Tank 500 Vanta carries over the Ultra’s comprehensive equipment list, ensuring a premium cabin experience. The seven-seater SUV features leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, and a premium audio system further enhance the tech offering.
Safety is a priority, with the Tank 500 Vanta equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera. Its five-star ANCAP safety rating underscores GWM’s commitment to meeting Australian safety standards.
Recent updates to the Tank 500 lineup, including a revised suspension tune introduced in late 2024, improve ride dynamics and composure. While the Vanta focuses on visual enhancements, these underlying improvements ensure it remains competitive in terms of comfort and handling.
Market Positioning and Pricing
The Tank 500 Vanta is priced at $75,990 drive-away, a $2000 premium over the Ultra grade ($73,990) and $9500 more than the entry-level Lux ($66,490). This pricing strategy positions the Vanta as a value-driven alternative to premium off-roaders from Japanese and European brands. For context, a Toyota LandCruiser Prado Kakadu starts at around $87,000 drive-away, while a Ford Everest Platinum can exceed $80,000.
GWM Tank 500 Pricing Comparison (2025)
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Variant |
Price (Drive-Away) |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|
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Lux |
$66,490 |
Base hybrid, 18-inch wheels, basic ADAS |
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Ultra |
$73,990 |
Premium interior, panoramic sunroof, full ADAS |
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Vanta |
$75,990 |
Blacked-out styling, Ultra features, exclusive Crystal Black |
The Vanta’s pricing reflects its positioning as a premium styling package, akin to a “Darth Vader costume” for the Ultra, as humorously described by carsales.com.au. Despite the higher price, it remains backed by GWM’s comprehensive Care program, which includes a seven-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty, seven-year roadside assistance, and seven-year capped-price servicing. With 114 dealerships nationwide, GWM is also addressing concerns about aftersales support, a critical factor for buyers venturing into remote areas.
GWM’s Growing Presence in Australia
The Tank 500 Vanta is part of GWM’s ambitious expansion in Australia, where the brand aims to surpass 50,000 sales in 2025 and reach 70,000 annually to crack the top five manufacturers. The Tank 500 itself has been well-received since its March 2024 launch, with its hybrid powertrain and competitive pricing earning praise. The Vanta builds on this momentum, catering to buyers who prioritize style and individuality.
GWM’s broader strategy includes a push toward electrification, with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Tank 500 confirmed for a third-quarter 2025 launch. The PHEV, expected to use the Hi4-T system with 300 kW and 750 Nm, could further challenge rivals like the Prado and Everest by offering superior electric-only range and performance. Additionally, GWM is developing a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine for the Tank 500 and Cannon Alpha, set for 2027, signaling its commitment to diverse powertrain options.
The Vanta’s arrival coincides with GWM’s efforts to localize its offerings. A revised grille and suspension tune tailored for Australian buyers, along with production shifting to Thailand for some models, demonstrate the brand’s focus on meeting local demands. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding dealership network coverage in remote areas, as noted by industry expert John Cadogan.
Competitive Landscape
The Tank 500 Vanta enters a crowded large SUV segment, where it faces stiff competition from established players. The Toyota LandCruiser Prado, known for its reliability and resale value, remains a benchmark, though its higher price and dated tech give the Vanta an edge in value. The Ford Everest, with its rugged capability and modern interior, is another strong contender, but its premium trims are pricier than the Vanta.
Chinese rivals like BYD and Chery are also gaining traction, with models like the BYD Shark 6 PHEV and Jaecoo J7 challenging GWM’s electrified offerings. However, the Tank 500 Vanta’s unique styling and hybrid efficiency set it apart, appealing to buyers who want a blend of luxury and off-road prowess without breaking the bank.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the Tank 500 Vanta is poised for success, GWM must navigate several challenges. The brand’s rapid rise has drawn comparisons to Hyundai and Kia’s growth, but lingering perceptions of Chinese vehicles’ quality could hinder mainstream acceptance. GWM’s focus on fit-and-finish improvements, as seen in the Tank 500, aims to counter this narrative.
Another challenge is the limited dealership network, particularly in rural areas, which could deter buyers planning off-road adventures. Expanding service infrastructure will be crucial for GWM to build trust. On the opportunity side, Australia’s appetite for bold, value-driven SUVs plays to the Vanta’s strengths. Its blacked-out styling taps into a popular trend, while its hybrid powertrain aligns with tightening emissions regulations under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).
Looking Forward
The GWM Tank 500 Vanta is set to make a bold statement when it arrives in Australian showrooms in July 2025. Priced at $75,990 drive-away, it offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and value, building on the Ultra’s premium features with a striking all-black aesthetic. As GWM continues to expand its Australian lineup with electrified and diesel options, the Vanta represents a key step in its quest to challenge established brands. While hurdles like dealership coverage remain, the Tank 500 Vanta’s unique positioning and robust specifications make it a worthy contender in the competitive large SUV market. For buyers seeking a luxurious, capable, and head-turning off-roader, the Vanta is a name to watch.