GWM P500: A Giant Leap Forward in the Bakkie Battle
The South African bakkie market is a fiercely contested arena, and GWM has just thrown a serious contender into the ring with the new P500.
This isn't just an evolution of their previous offerings; it's a clear statement of intent, showcasing how far Chinese manufacturers have come in terms of quality, technology, and overall refinement. The P500 aims to not only compete with established rivals but to potentially redefine expectations in the segment.
One of the first things you notice about the P500 is its sheer size. It dwarfs its P Series sibling, pushing the boundaries of what's considered a "mid-size" bakkie. While exact dimensions will vary slightly depending on trim, it’s clear this is a substantial vehicle, rivalling the behemoths in the segment. This translates to a cavernous interior and a generously sized load bed, making it a practical workhorse as well as a comfortable family vehicle.
Under the hood, the P500 offers two distinct powertrain options. The mainstay is a 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine producing 135kW and 480Nm of torque. This engine, coupled with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, provides ample grunt for both on and off-road adventures.
For those seeking more performance, the flagship model boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged hybrid (HEV) powertrain. This impressive setup generates a combined 255kW and a hefty 648Nm, offering exhilarating acceleration and effortless towing capabilities. Both engines are paired with a capable 4x4 system, ensuring the P500 can handle challenging terrains.
The P500's interior is where it truly shines, demonstrating the remarkable progress Chinese manufacturers have made. Gone are the days of cheap plastics and questionable fit and finish. The P500's cabin is a testament to modern design and quality materials.
Leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and tasteful chrome accents create a premium ambiance. Creature comforts abound, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, comfortable seating, and a host of advanced driver-assistance features. It's a far cry from the utilitarian interiors of yesteryear and genuinely rivals the comfort and technology found in its Japanese and even German competitors.
The exterior styling is equally impressive. The P500 boasts a bold and muscular design, with a prominent grille, sculpted lines, and a purposeful stance. The finish is excellent, with tight panel gaps and a high-quality paint job. This attention to detail extends throughout the vehicle, from the robust undercarriage protection to the thoughtfully designed load bed.
GWM is offering the P500 in three distinct variants in South Africa, catering to different needs and budgets.
The range starts with the 2.4T Double Cab Luxury 4x4 at R799,900, offering a compelling blend of features and value. Stepping up to the 2.4T Double Cab Super Luxury 4x4 at R889,900 adds further refinements and technology. At the top of the range sits the 2.0T HEV Double Cab Ultra Luxury 4x4, priced at R999,900. This flagship model showcases GWM's technological prowess and offers a truly premium bakkie experience.
The GWM P500 is a significant leap forward for the brand and a testament to the rapid advancements in Chinese automotive manufacturing. It's a genuinely impressive bakkie that offers a compelling combination of size, power, luxury, and value.
While long-term reliability remains to be seen, the initial impressions are overwhelmingly positive. The P500 is not just a challenger; it's a serious contender in the South African bakkie market, and it deserves to be taken seriously.
