Ute News

While the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max are still hugely popular, the established order in the Australian ute market continues to be challenged by newer brands and models like the BYD Shark 6, JAC T9 and GWM Cannon. And on the back of the recent launch of a significantly upgraded 2.4-litre turbo-diesel version of its Cannon ute, GWM has this week announced a range expansion with additional body styles, model grades and powertrain options to further dial up the competitive pressure.Initially left out of the updated line-up, an entry-level Premium grade has been reinstated, with 2.0-litre turbo-diesel power and an eight-speed auto transmission in 4x2 Single Cab Chassis (with tray) at $35,490, drive-away, or 4x4 Dual Cab utility form for $39,490, D/A. Previous range entry-point was $41,490, D/A for the Lux Dual Cab.At the same time, a 4x4 Dual Cab Chassis (with tray) will be offered in Lux trim, with the larger 2.4-litre engine at $42,490 D/A. For context, entry to the Ford Ranger line-up starts with the XL Single Cab (125kW/405Nm 2.0L) at $36,880, before on-road costs. Toyota’s HiLux range kicks off with the Workmate Single Cab Hi-Rider manual (110kW/400Nm 2.4L) at $32,970, BOC. And the plug-in hybrid BYD Shark 6 is offered in a single (321kW/650Nm 1.5L) Double Cab model for $57,900, BOC. GWM has confirmed the Cannon Premium’s 2.0-litre/eight-speed auto combination is “a direct carryover from the previous model” with outputs of 120kW/400Nm and maximum braked trailer towing capacity of 3.2 tonnes unchanged.And the reemergence of the smaller powerplant delivers a worthwhile fuel efficiency advantage with official combined (urban/extra-urban) figures of 7.6L/100km (single cab) and 8.1L/100km (dual cab). For reference, the 135KW/480Nm 2.4-litre dual cab comes in at 8.4L/100km.According to GWM, the Single Cab Chassis variant features a 240mm wheelbase extension (3470mm vs 3230mm) to “improve load distribution and vehicle dynamics” and a higher load capacity (1150kg vs 995kg) thanks in no small part to its leaf spring live axle rear suspension.Standard equipment on the Premium includes 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather seats, single-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch media touchscreen (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), four-speaker audio, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, auto rain-sensing wipers and paddle shifters.There’s also auto LED headlights (with DRLs and auto levelling), auto high beam, fog lights (with steering illumination), side steps, keyless entry, underbody protection, seven airbags (including a front centre bag), a reversing camera, rear parking sensors, trailer sway control, tyre pressure monitoring and more.And GWM is keen to push its seven-year/unlimited km warranty, five years roadside assistance offer and five-year capped price servicing program.So, shots fired, and it’s surely only a matter of time until others in the boiling hot ute market retaliate. Stand by.

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