GWM's next radical hybrid 4WD exposed: 2026 GWM Tank 700 detailed ahead of launch as large SUV off-roader shapes up as new Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, Denza B8 and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen rival

After an extended teaser campaign, GWM has fully detailed its Tank 700 Hi4-Z off-roader in its Chinese home market.

The new version of GWM’s aggressively styled off-roader is notable for its new hybrid system, which is distinct from the Hi4-T system previously sold on existing versions of the Tank 700. A 2.0-litre turbo-petrol version of it is currently used by GWM in the Cannon Alpha in Australia.

The Hi4-T system has an electric motor in the gearbox, and sends drive to the wheels via traditional mechanical links, theoretically maintaining hardcore off-road capability but limiting the available space for a battery.

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Instead, the new Hi4-Z system used in the new Tank 700 is closer in its design to BYD’s plug-in hybrid system used on the Denza B5, in that it replaces a mechanical link to the rear axle with an independent rear electric motor, using the space between the frame rails for a larger battery.

As a result, the Tank 700 Hi4-Z has a massive 59kWh battery pack, which grants it a WLTC-rated electric driving range of 190km. This is boosted by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine providing 185kW, maintaining a mechanical connection only to the front wheels.

Interestingly, the new Tank 700 also scores an overhauled interior compared to the Hi4-T V6 version, featuring a larger multimedia screen, a new two-tone colour scheme and a redesigned centre console with fresh toggle-style switchgear, sinking cupholder designs and more buttons than before.

It also features a drop-down entertainment screen for rear passengers, and aggressive new styling highlights, like a (fake) bonnet scoop and a rear spoiler. In China the 700 Hi4-Z is also available in a new array of colour schemes and features a LiDAR housing on top of its windscreen.

2026 GWM Tank 700 Hi4-Z

While this new 2.0-litre turbocharged Hi4-Z option adds yet another appealing feature to the Tank 700 range, GWM’s Australian division has hinted in the past that it is more likely our market will receive the next-generation version of the Tank 700.

This is because the versions which exist now don’t quite have the right features the brand is looking for in its Australian range. CarsGuide understands the 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo Hi4-T version won’t be made available in a right-hand-drive configuration, and this Hi4-Z version isn’t as sought after by the Australian division due to its compromised towing and off-road capabilities.

The Hi4-Z version is only capable of towing 2500kg, while the Cannon Alpha Hi4-T already sold here is certified to tow up to the industry standard 3500kg.

2026 GWM Tank 700 Hi4-Z

Regardless, GWM’s Australian division has shown interest in bringing the Tank 700 in as a range-topping offering at some point in the future, importing left-hand-drive examples to be tested locally in 2025, and hinting that a future version could be offered with the brand’s upcoming 4.0-litre V8 in a plug-in hybrid set-up.

However, the brand has also warned it wouldn’t be a bargain offering either, estimating starting prices well in excess of $100,000.

At 5105mm long, 2061mm wide and 1985mm tall, the chunky modern-military-style 4x4 is more Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series or Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen rival than the sub-five-metre Denza B5 and Toyota Prado.

2026 GWM Tank 700 Hi4-Z

The Tank 700 Hi4-Z is part of a new model blitz by GWM as it continues to fight for market share in China and across the world. The brand has also recently unveiled plans to build its Ora 5 electric crossover in both right-hand-drive and in hybrid form, and has also recently unveiled its Wey V9X luxury flagship SUV.

Locally, the brand has plans to expand on its offering of Ora models to better compete in the EV space, as well as launch the Wey brand in the second half of 2026.

Stay tuned for more on GWM’s local plans as the brand aims to hold its hard-fought top-ten position in Australia this year, against an aggressive BYD and Chery.