GWM South Africa has officially launched its latest addition to the P500 line up.
The 4 cylinder 3.0L diesel engine is set to lead the new chapter for GWM with the P500 being the first vehicle in the range to offer the new powertrain.
At its heart, the new 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine produces 170kW of power and 620 Nm of torque, coupled to a self-developed longitudinal nine-speed automatic transmission (9AT).
The combination is engineered to provide strong performance while maintaining the flexibility expected from a bakkie powertrain.
A key strength of the engine is its strong low-end response. With 385Nm of torque available from just 1,000rpm, it delivers meaningful pulling power almost from idle.
This low-rpm torque is especially useful in everyday driving, where immediate response often matters more than peak output.
Whether moving off from a junction, climbing a steep incline or carrying a heavy load, the engine delivers its strength without requiring high revs.
Performance is further supported by a 2,000-bar high-pressure common-rail fuel-injection system, which precisely manages fuel delivery to balance the performance expected of a large-capacity diesel with the efficiency demands of a modern powertrain.
Designed for drivers who demand more from their bakkie, the P500 blends rugged capability with a refined cabin that rivals premium SUVs.
At its heart is a technology-focused cockpit featuring a 14.6-inch touchscreen powered by GWM’s in-house Coffee Operating System 3.0, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a Head-Up Display, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep drivers seamlessly connected on the move.
The P500 also places strong emphasis on comfort, with premium leather seats offering massage, heating, ventilation, power adjustment and memory functionality.
Enhanced sound insulation, high-density sound-absorbing materials and a dual rear-seal design further improve cabin refinement by reducing unwanted road and wind noise.
Safety wise, the P500 features Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), incorporating technologies such as Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).
These systems work together to support the driver and enhance situational awareness in a wide range of driving conditions.
Adding further visibility and confidence, the 360° HD Surround View with Transparent Chassis function provides a comprehensive view around the vehicle, helping drivers navigate tight spaces and challenging terrain with greater precision.
“The introduction of the 3.0-litre diesel responds directly to demand for greater performance from the P500 diesel without compromising on the level of comfort that our customers have become accustomed to,” says Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing at GWM South Africa.
He said South African bakkie customers expect their vehicles to fulfil several roles, and for many of them diesel remains an important part of that equation.
The P500 3.0 Diesel is available in two grades, Super Luxury in 4X2 and Ultra Luxury only available in 4×4
Pricing:
P500 D-Cab 3.0TD 9AT 4×2 Super Luxury – R724 900
P500 D-Cab 3.0TD 9AT 4×4 Ultra Luxury – R799 900
It will be sold through selected GWM South Africa dealerships nationwide and is backed by a comprehensive GWM ownership package, a 7 Years / 200 000 km Warranty, a 7 Years / Unlimited km Roadside Assistance, 7 Years / 75 000 km Service Plan and Service intervals (Every 15 000 km or 12 months).
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