Bigger Tank 300 Hi4-Z Revealed in China: How It Compares to Australia’s Tank 300 Hi4-T
Chinese regulatory filings have revealed a larger, wider version of the GWM Tank 300 that could hint at the next evolution of the brand’s popular off-road SUV.
The newly listed Tank 300 Hi4-Z appears to stretch the platform significantly compared with the Tank 300 Hi4-T plug-in hybrid now launching in Australia.
While the Hi4-T focuses on electrified performance and efficiency, the Hi4-Z could signal a shift toward a bigger, more premium version of the rugged SUV.
Whether this larger variant will reach Australia remains unknown.
Bigger Body: Tank 300 Hi4-Z Dimensions
The new Chinese declaration lists the following dimensions:
| Model | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tank 300 Hi4-Z (China) | 4886 mm | 1984 mm | 1927 mm | 3010 mm |
| Tank 300 (Australia) | 4760 mm | 1930 mm | 1903 mm | 2750 mm |
Compared with the current Australian model, the Hi4-Z is:
- +126 mm longer
- +54 mm wider
- +24 mm taller
- +260 mm longer wheelbase
The current Tank 300 sold in Australia measures 4760 mm long, 1930 mm wide and 1903 mm tall with a 2750 mm wheelbase, confirming how significant the stretch is.
A wheelbase increase of 260 mm is particularly notable and would likely translate into:
- More rear passenger space
- Increased cargo capacity
- Improved highway stability
It could also signal the arrival of a long-wheelbase variant rather than a full redesign.
Revised Front Grille and Branding
Images from Chinese regulatory filings also show a revised front grille emblem design, moving away from the current horizontal Tank lettering used on global models.
The updated badge treatment aligns with a broader effort by GWM to elevate the Tank brand as a premium off-road SUV sub-brand.
Expect further styling tweaks such as:
- Updated grille detailing
- Potentially revised bumpers
- New wheel designs
Australian Benchmark: Tank 300 Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid
Australia’s newest Tank 300 variant is the Hi4-T plug-in hybrid, which combines electrified performance with traditional ladder-frame off-road capability.
Key specs include:
| Specification | Tank 300 Hi4-T (Australia) |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbo petrol |
| Electric motor | 120 kW |
| Combined power | 300 kW |
| Combined torque | 750 Nm |
| Battery | 37.1 kWh |
| Electric range | up to 115 km (NEDC) |
| Transmission | 9-speed hybrid automatic |
| Drivetrain | Mechanical 4WD with low range |
| Towing capacity | 3000 kg |
The Hi4-T system pairs a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 300 kW and 750 Nm, making it the most powerful Tank 300 variant available locally.
Electric-only driving range is rated at up to 115 km, while combined fuel consumption is quoted at around 1.9 L/100 km when the battery is charged.
Importantly for off-road buyers, the Hi4-T retains:
- Low-range transfer case
- Front and rear locking differentials
- Ladder-frame chassis
What the Hi4-Z Could Mean
While full technical specifications have not yet been released, the larger body of the Hi4-Z suggests several possibilities.
1. A More Premium Tank 300
The extra wheelbase could position the vehicle closer to the Tank 500 in comfort and interior space, while retaining the more compact footprint of the Tank 300.
2. Hybrid System Evolution
The name “Hi4-Z” indicates a possible evolution of GWM’s electrified drivetrain strategy beyond the current Hi4-T system.
That could include:
- Different motor layout
- Increased battery capacity
- Enhanced electric driving capability
3. Global Expansion
With the Tank brand gaining traction in Australia and Europe, GWM may be preparing multiple body styles of the Tank 300 to broaden its appeal.
Will Australia Get the Bigger Tank 300?
At this stage, there has been no confirmation that the Hi4-Z will be sold in Australia.
However, the Tank 300 has quickly become one of the most successful Chinese off-roaders to launch locally, thanks to its:
- Strong off-road capability
- Competitive pricing
- Distinctive retro design
A long-wheelbase Tank 300 could appeal strongly to Australian buyers looking for a vehicle that blends:
- Jeep-like styling
- Toyota Prado practicality
- Electrified powertrains
For now, the Tank 300 Hi4-T plug-in hybrid remains the flagship electrified model available to Australian buyers.
But if the Hi4-Z does make its way here, it could become the largest and most sophisticated Tank 300 yet.