The GWM P500 has finally made landfall on South African shores, with the flagship P-Series in the Chinese manufacturer’s local bakkie line-up ushering in a host of firsts for the segment. Here’s what you can expect from the three-strong P500 model range…
As mentioned, the local P500 portfolio comprises a trio of derivatives, available in three levels of specification, a duo of engine options, and a single transmission option. The trim grades include Luxury, Super Luxury, and Ultra Luxury, the latter of which is exclusive to the petrol-electric P500. But before we get to the powertrains, what does each trim level include?
Starting with entry-level, Luxury level of specification, this variant features, as standard, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is coupled with a six-speaker sound system; a 360-degree surround-view camera-setup, supplemented by fore and aft park distance sensors; adaptive cruise control; lane-change assist; and keyless entry, among many other items.
The mid-tier, Super Luxury model upgrades to a 14.6-inch, touch-enabled infotainment unit; a wireless smartphone charging bay; Nappa leather-trimmed, eight- and six-way electrically adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s pews, replete with heating and ventilation, and massaging functionality; and a panoramic sunroof. The model also features a 40:60-split, easy-lift tailgate.
On top of the aforementioned items, the range-topping, Ultra Luxury variant gains a head-up display; a 10-speaker Infinity sound system; a second wireless smartphone charging bay for the aft occupants; heated and ventilated rear seats, which are two-way electrically adjustable; and ambient lighting.
As mentioned, Ultra Luxury level of specification is exclusively available with the P500 HEV, the first fully hybrid bakkie in SA. The sole petrol-powered model in the line-up, this derivative’s hybrid setup comprises a 180 kW/380 N.m 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-pot and a 78 kW/268 N.m electric motor for a peak power and torque output of 255 kW and 648 N.m, making it the second-most powerful bakkie in SA (after the 292 kW Ford Ranger Raptor).
Luxury and Super Luxury models employ a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which churns out 135 kW and 480 N.m, the latter of which available from a lowly 1 500 r/min. GWM claims the oil-burner sips, on average, 8.6 L/100 km (1.2 L/100 km less than the hybrid configuration). All engines are coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
How much does the GWM P500 cost in South Africa?
The Luxury and Super Luxury models are priced at R799 900 and R889 900, respectively. The HEV variant will set you back R999 900. Pricing includes a five-year/75 000 km service plan and seven-year/200 000 km warranty. In addition, the HEV gains an eight-year/150 000 km hybrid-battery warranty.