The GWM Tanks 300's interior is dominated by the twin 12.3-inch multimedia screens that meet up, giving the impression of a glass cockpit. Some of the detailing seems a bit fussy and overwrought, particularly some of the plastic trimmings. The steering column is multi adjustable but the indicator stalk is problematic for some drivers with an indistinct action. The cabin layout and ergonomics are from the previous generation of GWM models as the company did not feel the newer column-mounted gear selector was appropriate for this vehicle.

Alloy wheels are standard on the GWM Tank 300, as is the sunroof with its sliding cover and voice activation function. Roof rails and side steps are also standard, and GWM dealers offer accessories such as bike racks, trailer-brake controlled and a wall box for home charging.

The GWM Tank 300 has a choice of three powertrains, including petrol, diesel and hybrid. The newest, the plug-in hybrid will soon replace the normal hybrid and teams a petrol four-cylinder turbo with an electric motor for 300kW and 750Nm. The petrol Tank 300 uses the same 2.0-lire engine for 180kW and 380Nm. The turbo diesel boasts 2.4 litres and a turbocharger for 125kW and, crucially, 480Nm of torque. The petrol uses an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the others get a nine-speed automatic.

The GWM Tank 300 is a five-seater with a better than average rear seat thanks to an adjustable backrest angle. The front seats, depending on specification, are finished in either Nappa leather or leather inserts and Ultra grades have heating, cooling and massaging functions. Isofix child restraint mounts are also fitted.

The GWM Tank 300's headline 0-100km/h feat is the property of the plug-in hybrid version which GWM claims can tackle this task in 6.3 seconds. That's provided you have at least 40 per cent charge in the battery, however. The petrol version needs closer to 10 seconds to complete this journey and the diesel variant closer to 12 seconds.

The GWM Tank 300 PHEV is, again, the standout member of the family here with a claimed range of 950km provided you begin with a full 70-litre fuel tank and a fully charged hybrid battery. GWM says 115 of those kilometres can be electric only. The other versions get a slightly larger 75-litre fuel tank and the petrol will get close to the hybrid's range with a 790km theoretical range based on its official combined fuel consumption. The more frugal diesel variant, based on the same assumptions, has a range of 960km.