The Tank 500 3.0T V6 Mild Hybrid 4WD Automatic, launched in March 2022 and produced through August 2025, represents a significant entry into the growing market for rugged, body-on-frame SUVs. Developed by Tank, a sub-brand of Great Wall Motors, the 500 was specifically designed for the Chinese domestic market, capitalizing on the demand for capable off-road vehicles with a degree of luxury. It quickly gained popularity for its blend of robust construction, powerful engine, and relatively affordable price point. The 3.0T V6 variant, equipped with a mild hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission, sits at the top of the 500 lineup, offering the highest performance and a more refined driving experience compared to potential future lower-trim options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tank |
| Model | 500 |
| Generation | 500 |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0T V6 (360 Hp) Mild Hybrid 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 2022 |
| End of production | August, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.79 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 146.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.7 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Longitudinal |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 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 capacity | 9.3 l (9.83 US qt | 8.18 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2455-2565 kg (5412.35 – 5654.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3090 kg (6812.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525-635 kg (1157.43 – 1399.94 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Length | 5070 mm (199.61 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 track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 224 mm (8.82 in.) |
| Approach angle | 29.6° |
| Departure angle | 24° |
| Climb angle | 35° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 265/65 R17; 265/60 R18; 265/55 R19; 265/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tank 500 3.0T is the E30Z 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This engine utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The twin-turbocharger setup, featuring an intercooler, helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The mild hybrid system, employing a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, provides a small power boost during acceleration and enables a start/stop system for improved fuel economy. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. The nine-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes, optimizing both on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Driving Characteristics
The Tank 500 3.0T V6 delivers a surprisingly refined driving experience for a vehicle of its size and weight. The twin-turbo V6 provides ample power for both highway cruising and off-road excursions. The nine-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering quick and seamless shifts. While not a sports car, the 500 accelerates briskly and maintains stable highway speeds. The mild hybrid system contributes to a responsive feel during initial acceleration. The 4WD system, with its electronically controlled clutch, allows for seamless transitions between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, enhancing both on-road efficiency and off-road traction. The vehicle’s substantial weight (2455-2565 kg) is noticeable, particularly during cornering, but the well-tuned suspension helps to minimize body roll.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tank 500 3.0T V6 typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its position as the top-tier trim level. Standard features generally include leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras often include premium audio systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design emphasizes a rugged yet luxurious aesthetic, with durable materials and a functional layout.
Chassis & Braking
The Tank 500 utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for off-road driving. The front suspension features a double wishbone setup with independent coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle configuration with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. This suspension setup is designed to provide a comfortable ride on paved roads while maintaining excellent off-road articulation. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electric power steering system offers precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tank 500 3.0T V6 has been well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its combination of capability, comfort, and value. Critics have noted its strong engine performance, refined driving experience, and spacious interior. Compared to other trims in the 500 lineup (if any were offered), the 3.0T V6 represents a significant upgrade in terms of power and refinement. Its fuel economy of 10.79 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) is reasonable for a vehicle of its size and weight, although it is slightly lower than that of potential future four-cylinder variants. Reliability reports are still emerging, but the use of proven components from established suppliers like ZF suggests a good level of long-term durability.
Legacy
The Tank 500 3.0T V6 is poised to become a significant vehicle in the evolving landscape of off-road SUVs. Its robust construction, powerful engine, and relatively affordable price point have made it a popular choice among Chinese consumers. As Tank expands its reach into international markets, the 500 is likely to gain recognition as a capable and well-rounded SUV. The longevity of the E30Z engine and the ZF nine-speed automatic transmission suggest that this powertrain combination should prove reliable over the long term, making the Tank 500 a potentially desirable vehicle in the used car market.
