The four-cylinder turbodiesel produces 170kW and 620Nm and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 4x2 Super Luxury and two 4x4 derivatives are priced from R849,900 to R999,900.
The new engine is aimed at buyers prioritising low-speed torque, towing and long-distance touring. GWM says 385Nm is available from 1,000rpm, while maximum torque reaches 620Nm.
The Tank 500 3.0 Diesel has a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes.
The South African range comprises three derivatives: the 3.0TD 9AT 4x2 Super Luxury at R849,900, the 3.0TD 9AT 4x4 Ultra Luxury at R929,900 and the 3.0TD 9AT 4x4 Overland at R999,900.
The Overland derivative can be specified with an auxiliary 53-litre fuel tank in addition to the standard 78-litre tank.
The diesel uses a part-time four-wheel-drive system on the 4x4 models and a 2,000-bar common-rail fuel-injection system.
GWM says the engine underwent million-kilometre test-bench testing as well as full-vehicle validation during its development.
Despite the addition of the diesel powertrain, the Tank 500 remains positioned as a premium seven-seat SUV.
Standard equipment includes a leather interior, electrically adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions, and GWM's Coffee OS 3.0 infotainment and connectivity system.
The system includes integrated voice control for functions such as navigation,
