The Tank 500 3.0T V6 Mild Hybrid 4WD Automatic, launched in March 2023, represents a significant entry into the growing market for luxury, body-on-frame SUVs. Produced by Tank, a sub-brand of Great Wall Motors, the 500 is specifically designed for the Chinese domestic market, emphasizing off-road capability and robust construction. However, export markets are being explored. This particular variant, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with a mild hybrid system and a 9-speed automatic transmission, positions itself as the premium offering within the initial 500 lineup, offering a balance of power, refinement, and all-terrain performance. It’s built on a dedicated platform intended to provide both comfort and durability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tank |
| Model | 500 |
| Generation | 500 |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0T V6 (299 Hp) Mild Hybrid 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 16.1 l/100 km (14.6 US mpg, 17.5 UK mpg, 6.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197.2 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Longitudinal |
| Power | 299 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | E30Z |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2535 kg (5588.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3025 kg (6668.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 795 l (28.08 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1381 l (48.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4886 mm (192.36 in.) |
| Width | 1934 mm (76.14 in.) |
| Height | 1905 mm (75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 224 mm (8.82 in.) |
| Approach angle | 29.5° |
| Departure angle | 24° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20° |
| Climb angle | 35° |
| Wading depth | 800 mm (31.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tank 500 3.0T is the E30Z engine, a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 gasoline engine. This engine utilizes both direct injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The twin-turbocharger setup provides a broad torque curve, peaking at 500 Nm (368.78 lb.-ft.) between 1500 and 4000 rpm. The mild hybrid system, employing a 48-volt electrical architecture, provides a small power boost during acceleration and enables start/stop functionality for improved fuel economy. The 9-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is known for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both on-road refinement and off-road crawling ability. The transmission is designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output and provide optimal gear selection for various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0T V6 powertrain delivers a confident and capable driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.1 seconds, and the vehicle feels responsive in everyday driving situations. The 9-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although some drivers may notice occasional hunting for the optimal gear. Compared to potential lower-trim models (if offered), the 3.0T provides significantly more power and torque, resulting in effortless highway cruising and improved towing capacity. The mild hybrid system is largely transparent to the driver, providing a subtle boost during acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system, combined with the robust suspension, provides excellent traction on various surfaces, making the Tank 500 a capable off-road vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the top-tier variant, the 3.0T V6 Automatic comes standard with a comprehensive list of features. Interior appointments typically include leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a premium sound system. Standard safety features include a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras may include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded interior trim materials, and specialized off-road equipment like a winch and upgraded skid plates.
Chassis & Braking
The Tank 500 utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for off-road adventures. The front suspension features a double wishbone design with independent coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. This configuration balances ride comfort with off-road articulation. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tank 500 has been well-received in the Chinese market, where it has quickly gained popularity among consumers seeking a capable and luxurious off-road SUV. Critics have praised its robust construction, powerful engine, and comprehensive feature set. Fuel economy, however, is a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption figures around 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg). Compared to other SUVs in its class, the Tank 500 offers a unique combination of off-road capability and luxury features, setting it apart from more mainstream competitors.
Legacy
The long-term reliability of the Tank 500’s powertrain remains to be seen, as it is a relatively new vehicle. However, the use of proven components from established suppliers, such as the ZF 9-speed automatic transmission, suggests a reasonable expectation of durability. The E30Z engine, while relatively new, is based on established V6 engine designs. In the used car market, the 3.0T V6 Automatic is expected to hold its value well due to its premium features and strong performance. Its robust construction and all-wheel-drive system should also make it a desirable option for buyers seeking a capable and reliable SUV.
