Key Points
- The 2026 GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV receives Australia and New Zealand-specific suspension and steering tuning under the AT-1 package.
- A 220V outlet has been added to the rear cargo area, expanding the vehicle's V2L capability for camping and work use.
- Pricing starts at $77,990 drive-away under GWM's May offer, with a standard drive-away price of $79,990.
GWM has updated the Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV for Australian and New Zealand buyers, introducing revised suspension and steering calibration developed specifically for local road and off-road conditions. The changes apply to MY2026 vehicles built from March 2026 onwards.
The update also adds a 220V rear cargo vehicle-to-load (V2L) outlet and brings the Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV into line with the recently updated Haval H6, which was the first GWM model to receive ANZ-specific factory tuning.
What the AT-1 package changes
GWM calls the update the AT-1 package. It covers updated damper tuning and revised steering calibration, both aimed at improving ride quality, steering feel, and composure on Australian roads and tracks.
GWM says the Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV is the second vehicle in its Australian line-up to receive this kind of ANZ-specific tuning integrated at the factory level, following the Haval H6. The changes are not a post-production modification — they are built in from the factory for vehicles produced from March 2026.
Platform and off-road hardware
The Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV sits on a body-on-frame ladder chassis with a mechanical 4x4 system. Drive goes through a nine-speed hybrid automatic and a torque-on-demand transfer case with low-range gearing. This is a traditional 4x4 layout, not an AWD-style system.
Off-road hardware is substantial for a plug-in hybrid SUV. Key figures and features are listed below.
GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV: Off-road specs
Specification | Figure |
Ground clearance | 213mm |
Approach angle | 30 degrees |
Departure angle | 24 degrees |
Wading depth | 800mm |
Locking differentials | Triple (front, centre, rear) |
Drive modes | 11 selectable |
Transfer case | Torque-on-demand with low-range |
New V2L outlet
As part of the AT-1 update, the Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV gains a 220V outlet in the rear cargo area. This expands the vehicle's V2L (vehicle-to-load) functionality, allowing owners to power camping equipment, tools, and other accessories directly from the car.
For a full-size PHEV SUV aimed at touring and off-road use, the addition is practical. The PHEV drivetrain means the vehicle can generate power from its petrol engine when the battery is depleted, giving the V2L outlet more sustained usefulness than a pure EV in remote areas.
Pricing and availability
The updated 2026 Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV is priced at $79,990 drive-away. GWM's May offer brings that down to $77,990 drive-away. Buyers should confirm with their dealer whether local stock has arrived, as the revised specification applies to vehicles built from March 2026 onwards.
GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV: Pricing
Pricing | Drive-away |
Standard price | $79,990 |
May 2026 offer | $77,990 |
Part of a broader GWM PHEV push
The Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV update follows a similar pattern to the Tank 300 Hi4-T PHEV, which launched in Australia earlier this year. GWM is building out a PHEV-focused 4x4 range in Australia, with both Tank models targeting buyers who want off-road capability alongside electrified efficiency.
About the author
Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data.
