Watch out, 2023 Toyota LandCruiser Prado! Great Wall's new Tank 500 Hybrid brings petrol-electric power and low emissions to big off-roader fight

Great Wall (GWM) has revealed the all-new Tank 500 large SUV’s second powertrain option, a ‘self-charging’ hybrid that’s aptly named HEV.

Of course, the off-road-focused Tank 500 is GWM’s answer to the all-conquering Toyota Prado, which is coincidentally expected to be available with a ‘self-charging’ hybrid powertrain when its next generation arrives, likely next year.

Either way, the Tank 500 debuted last August with a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6 engine and a mild-hybrid system, but the fresh variant combines a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit with an electric motor that’s integrated into its nine-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.

Read More About GWM

China's Toyota LandCruiser Prado fighter: Meet the Great Wall Tank 500 Look out LandCruiser! GWM Tank brand trademarked for Australia, unlocking Chinese Toyota Prado and LC300 rivals for Oz GWM news and reviews

While the Tank 500’s bent six produces a considerable 260kW of power and 500Nm of torque, its new low-emissions option develops a more modest 180kW and 380Nm.

The HEV’s fuel consumption on the combined-cycle test is yet to be released, but it’s safe to assume it will be more efficient than its sibling, even with a four-wheel-drive system still naturally in tow.

It’s also not yet clear if both versions of the Tank 500 come with the same low-range transfer case and three differential locks (front, centre and rear), although hill-descent control is common.

For reference, the Tank 500 measures 5070mm long (with a 2850mm wheelbase), 1934mm wide and 1905mm tall, and has approach, departure and breakover angles of 29.6, 24 and 22 degrees respectively.

Inside, the Tank 500 is headlined by a ‘floating’ 14.9-inch touchscreen multimedia system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. There’s also plenty of leather upholstery and wood trim – plus a crystal gear selector – to provide a luxury feel.

As reported, GWM’s emerging Tank sub-brand is firming for an Australian launch, possibly as early as next year, with 16 recent local trademark applications clearing the path for it do so, but a spokesperson told CarsGuide "no decision has been made yet".