GWM Tank 500 Arrives in Nepal:Price and Features

When Great Wall Motors (GWM) teased the arrival of the Tank 500 in Nepal, many assumed it would remain a pre-booking fantasy, just a statement of intent. But in a move that has surprised even industry insiders, VG Impex, the official distributor for GWM in Nepal, has officially brought the Tank 500 into showrooms. And just like that, Nepal’s SUV segment has a new heavyweight contender.

This isn’t just about another SUV hitting the market, it’s about what the Tank 500 represents: a luxurious, hybrid-powered, body-on-frame SUV that blends rugged off-road capabilities with premium comfort and a tech-loaded cabin. At an introductory price of NPR 2.15 Crores, it undercuts many of its premium rivals while delivering performance and features that demand attention, even from segment giants like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.

Design

The GWM Tank 500 is unapologetically bold in its design. From the first glance, it’s clear that this SUV isn’t trying to blend in. It’s big, assertive, and built to command attention. Riding on a traditional body-on-frame chassis, the Tank 500 brings back the charm of old-school off-roaders but does so with modern flair. 

The front is highlighted by a massive grille and flanked by sharply defined square-shaped Matrix LED headlamps, while a functional bash plate underlines its off-road readiness. From the side, its sheer dimensions, spanning over five meters in length and supported by a long 2850 mm wheelbase, create a muscular silhouette that’s both luxurious and intimidating. The 20-inch alloy wheels complete the SUV’s premium stance.

 At the rear, vertical LED taillights, a boot-mounted spare tire, chrome embellishments, and yet another bash plate combine to deliver a rugged, upscale finish. The Tank 500 is available in four exterior colors, Silver, Golden, White, and Black, each contributing a unique personality to the SUV’s already commanding presence.

Interior

While the exterior projects toughness, the cabin of the Tank 500 embraces sophistication. Open the doors, and you’re greeted by a spacious interior layered with luxury. The seats are wrapped in high-quality Nappa leather, with the front seats offering both ventilation and massage functions, adjustable electronically for both the driver and the passenger. 

The second row isn't forgotten either, featuring its own set of thoughtful conveniences like rear-seat ventilation, USB ports, and privacy curtains. At the center of the dashboard sits a large 14.6-inch infotainment display compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides detailed vehicle information. For added driving ease, a Heads-Up Display projects essential data directly onto the windshield. 

Complementing these tech features are dual-zone climate control, an electric panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and an 8-speaker Infinity audio system, all adding up to a cabin experience that’s as modern as it is indulgent. The interior can be configured in either a classic Black theme or a more elegant dual-tone Blue/Beige option.

Performance

Under the hood, the Tank 500 doesn’t just impress, it dominates. Powering this beast is a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, bolstered by a hybrid electric motor to deliver a driving experience that’s both energetic and efficient. 

The petrol engine alone generates 245 PS and 380 Nm of torque, while the electric motor contributes an additional 106 PS and 268 Nm, supported by a 37.1 kWh ternary battery pack. Together, they produce a staggering combined output of 351 PS and 648 Nm of torque. 

This power is handled by a sophisticated 9-speed hybrid automatic transmission (9HAT), ensuring smooth shifts and confident acceleration. Despite its substantial size, the Tank 500 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 km/h, performance numbers more commonly found in sport-oriented SUVs than off-road machines.

Off-Road Capabilities

What makes the Tank 500 even more impressive is its dedication to off-road performance. This SUV is not just built for urban roads, it’s engineered to handle Nepal’s diverse terrain with confidence. Equipped with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and electronically controlled differential locks, the Tank 500 can adapt to a variety of challenging conditions. 

Drivers can select from multiple terrain modes including Mud, Sand, Rock, Snow, as well as advanced 4H and 4L settings, and an Expert mode for serious off-roading. For everyday driving, it also features Standard, Sport, Eco, and Auto modes.

The generous ground clearance of 224 mm, along with a robust double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup, allows the SUV to glide over rocky trails, pothole-ridden roads, or slippery inclines with ease. Whether it's a Himalayan trail or a rugged village route, the Tank 500 promises a composed and capable ride throughout.

Safety and Technology

Safety is a central focus of the Tank 500, backed by a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. It’s packed with modern driver-assist features:

• 7 Airbags

• Driver Monitoring System

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Collision Warning and Auto Emergency Braking

• 360-degree camera with parking sensors

• Hill Assist with Auto Hold

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

• Electric Side Step for ease of entry and exit

It even includes ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) for semi-autonomous driving comfort.

Specifications at a Glance

Price and Availability in Nepal

The GWM Tank 500 is available now at an introductory price of NPR 2,15,95,000. Only one variant is currently on offer, and bookings can be made directly through GWM’s Thapathali showroom in Kathmandu.

It's worth noting that during the pre-booking phase, the Tank 500 was priced at around NPR 2.25 Crores, so this launch price is slightly discounted. However, VG Impex has indicated that prices could rise depending on future demand.

Competitive Landscape: Tank 500 vs Toyota Prado 250

In terms of rivals, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 250 is the most obvious comparison. While the Prado enjoys a legacy of reliability and off-road dominance, the Tank 500 punches hard with modern tech, hybrid efficiency, and a significantly lower price tag.

• Prado 250 uses a 2.8L diesel engine, while the Tank 500 uses a turbo petrol-hybrid setup.

• Tank 500 delivers far more torque (648 Nm vs Prado's 500 Nm).

• Price Gap: The Prado 250 base variant costs over NPR 1 Crore more than the Tank 500.

For buyers in Nepal looking for an SUV that offers luxury, technology, hybrid efficiency, and real off-road chops, the Tank 500 delivers unmatched value. While the Prado remains the king of legacy and long-haul performance, the Tank 500 emerges as a modern disruptor with serious intent.

Conclusion

The GWM Tank 500 isn’t just another premium SUV launch, it’s a statement. With cutting-edge hybrid engineering, luxury-grade interiors, comprehensive safety tech, and off-road muscle, it changes the conversation in Nepal’s high-end SUV segment.

For anyone looking beyond the badge and focusing on what’s actually being offered under the hood and in the cabin, the Tank 500 is possibly the best value-for-money large SUV in Nepal today.

GWM has fired a serious shot at traditional players, and this time, the Tank is rolling right into their territory.