2025 GWM Cannon ute gets boosted towing capacity with more powerful engine making it an even better cut-price alternative to the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max

GWM is continuing its march as a top-ten car brand in Australia, with the Chinese automaker announcing key upgrades for its most popular ute.

The upgraded GWM Cannon (previously known as the GWM Ute) is set for an official launch next month when full pricing and specifications will be revealed.

In ditching its old name it also welcomes a new engine – the gruntier 2.4-litre turbo-diesel that is currently equipped on its larger Cannon Alpha sibling, which is also available in a hybrid and soon-to-be plug-in hybrid guise.

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The new motor will deliver an increased power output of 135kW/480Nm, up 15kW and 80Nm from the current model.

Power will be transmitted through a new nine-speed automatic transmission, while its braked towing capacity will be upped from 3200kg to the benchmark 3500kg, bringing it in line with segment leaders in the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max.

The exterior has also been given a slight refresh, with a sharper front grille in a darker colour scheme opposed to the previous chrome design.

Additionally, there are new front fog lights, while the ‘GWM’ logo has been embossed more prominently into the vehicle’s tailgate.

GWM also said the interior has been upgraded with more “premium materials, advanced technology and enhanced comfort features”, though a full run down, including pictures, will have to wait until the vehicle’s official launch.

A bump in the current model’s starting price of $35,490, drive-away, which rises to $46,990 for the top-spec XSR Dual-Cab, is expected, though it will no doubt still undercut established rivals.

7976 GWM Utes were sold last year, down 14.8 per cent from the previous year’s 9363 sales.

In total GWM sold 42,782 vehicles in 2024, landing it the ranking of Australia's tenth most popular car brand for the first time.