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Chinese-made automobiles are gaining traction in Jamaica, particularly with hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and so there is great expectation from GWM’s Tank brand.

Last Friday, Stewart’s Automotive Group launched the 2025 GWM Tank 500 and the 2025 GWM Tank 300 at Kingston’s Devon House East Lawn.

The Tank 500 is a beast of an SUV and comes in wider and bigger than a Landcruiser. It weighs in at 2605 kilograms and is powered by a 2-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 242 horsepower. This 4-wheel drive has a 9-speed automatic transmission.

The Tank 500 is a true performer in sport mode and does 0-100 KPH in 7.9 seconds. The 14.6-inch high-definition central control infotainment system, leather, faux wood and aluminum interior touches give this vehicle a stamp of quality.

It boasts an Infinity sound system. The GWN 500 is both rugged and refined.

The GWM Tank 300 is a square-jawed, handsome vehicle that will be a competitor to the Jeep Wrangler.

It is an imposing 2.3-ton head-turner with 18-inch alloy wheels on a 60-profile tyre. This vehicle sits on a ladder-on-frame chassis.

It has a premium-looking interior with a Napa-leather accented finish. There are two 12.3-inch display screens which has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It boasts a 9-speaker Infinity sound system.

The ergonomics are pretty good

The 4×4 GWM Tank 300 is a 5-seater, 2-litre responsive ride with a modern hybrid powertrain churning out 340 horsepower with 648 newton metres of torque. It is a quiet driving experience with good ride quality.

There is no question that Chinese vehicles are improving

“At Stewart’s Automotive Group, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with unparalleled excellence in the range of motor vehicles we carry, and this partnership with GWM is testament to that commitment. The team is beyond excited to introduce our customers to the Tank 300 and Tank 500, and we are looking forward to continuing to build on our reputation of unmatched service for our new Tank owners,” said Jacqueline Stewart Lechler, managing director, Stewart’s Automotive Group.

Titanya Clarke, brand sales manager of GWM Jamaica, expressed her excitement during the event, stating: “GWM Jamaica is thrilled to bring these two premium and sophisticated HEVs to the Jamaican market. The Tank 300 and Tank 500 are the very definition of luxury and adventure, engineered to deliver exceptional performance and unmatched sophistication. Both vehicles will provide a superior driving experience for our customers, which we know they will love.”

According to Clarke, the Tank 300 is designed for the adventurer at heart, the ultimate off-road machine, featuring strength, versatility, and cutting-edge technology. The vehicle is also engineered to maneuver all terrains, combining both power and style for those who demand the best from their 4×4.

Clarke further added: “Whether you’re navigating rugged landscapes or city streets, the Tank 300 redefines what an SUV can be, offering an elevated driving experience for those who seek adventure. It is the definition of sophistication and functionality.”

Ariel von Cork, attorney-at-law, who is one of the first owners of the Tank 300, shared her excitement about her new purchase. “I was in the market for a bigger vehicle and was searching for the perfect fit. When I came across the Tank 300, I instantly fell in love,” she said, beaming with joy. “I absolutely adore the look—it’s everything I wanted in a vehicle!”

The Tank 500, described as the “perfect combination of intelligent luxury and off-road experience,” has several key features, including a 2.0 litre turbocharged hybrid engine, electronic side steps, voice control, Nappa leather accented seats, front massaging seats, and many more.

“When it comes to large luxury SUVs, it doesn’t get much better than the Tank 500. This powerhouse of a vehicle is tailored for those who seek luxury and comfort without compromising on power. The Tank 500 is powerful, rugged and refined, with remarkable technology and safety features, making it an ideal choice for those looking for the ultimate statement in luxury, sophistication and outstanding off-road performance,” said Clarke.

To top off the launch event, guests were treated to a surprise performance by Valiant, who delivered some of his popular hits, “ Expensive”, “Motorcade “and an acapella delivery of ‘North Carolina.”

Speaking with Our Today, managing director of Stewart’s Automotive Group Jacquline Stewart Lechler spoke about how she sees the Tank’s place in the Jamaican market, and it going head-to-head against Toyota’s SUVs.

“Tonight we are launching the Tank 500 and the Tank 300. It will land in the highest SUV range and the middle SUV range. These cars are not only big but are full of features. The price is very competitive, with the Tank 500 at just J$15 million and the Tank 300 at J$11.5 million. That’s far lower than both the Landcruiser and Prado yet value for money considering the quality of vehicle you are getting. The proof is in the pudding. People need to come down and see and test drive the vehicles. Check out the cameras, all the unique features and, most importantly, the drive. They are rugged yet smooth at the same time. This is the vehicle you need if you have to go up the road near Tavistock. The Tank will take Jamaica by storm. It is the SUV for Jamaica, so let’s go!”

Here are some photos from Our Today: