GWM Tank 300 vs Rivian R1T

What's the difference?

There’s a lot to like here. The GWM Tank 300 in any of its forms is a competent vehicle from the helm and backs up its off-road claims with real ability. The ride quality, in particular, is a highlight, and it’s a good size for couples or young families. Its value for money is also quite brilliant.

Add this plug-in hybrid driveline to the mix and the performance is quite astounding, while the petrol engine and EV potential have arrived at a critical point in history where such things carry more weight than ever before. It remains to be seen what happens globally and what effect that has on fuel prices, specifically the price gap between petrol and diesel. There’s also the question of what happens electronically when you dunk the Tank into Nolan’s Brook on the track to Cape York. But for now, this is a car whose time appears to have come.

But while the overall concept deserves praise, there’s still some work required in terms of the way the car drives and in its attempts at keeping its occupants safe. The calibration of both the throttle response and some of the driver aids is, frankly, in need of some final polish. And though it sounds odd, the Tank 300 would be a better thing to live with if GWM ditched the contentious driver aids and took the points hit on its ANCAP rating. Even better would be to stick with the tech but refine it to the point where it works in the background and not as an irritant.

Having finally experienced the Rivian R1T from the driver's seat I think this is a ute that would have plenty of appeal in the Australian market. Not as a competitor to a Toyota HiLux Workmate or similar working-class ute, but as an alternative to the likes of the HiLux Rogue, Ford Ranger Raptor or even the new Ranger Platinum.

This is a high-end, luxury ute that also happens to be electric, which only expands its appeal. It has seriously impressive performance and, while we didn't get to test them first-hand, strong off-road credentials. Add to that a premium look and feel to the cabin and loads of practicality and it's easy to see this finding an audience here.

The biggest question will be cost, because even at a direct price conversion (which isn't a clear reflection of shipping and local tariffs) the R1T will start well over $100,000. Even by today's standards of six-figure US utes like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and incoming Ford F-150, that will be a hard sell and could restrict its chances.

Which would be a shame because while Tesla has a clear head start in Australia, it's possible for Rivian to follow in its wheel tracks and have plenty of mainstream success.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.