GWM Tank 700 to Feature V8 Engine for Global Markets, Prioritizing Australia and New Zealand

Great Wall Motors (GWM) has confirmed that its flagship Tank 700 SUV will feature a newly developed V8 powertrain, explicitly designed for export markets rather than China’s domestic automotive landscape.

Speaking at the Beijing Auto Show, GWM Chairman Jack Wei stated, “In the future, the Tank 700 will also use a V8 engine.” He emphasized that this decision runs counter to current trends in China, where electrified and smaller-displacement vehicles dominate. “This is completely opposite to the current environment or trend in China; it does not fit the Chinese market. We developed this V8 to meet the needs of more global users, in markets such as Australia and New Zealand.”

V8 Engine Tailored for Global Buyers

The V8 powertrain is aimed at regions where towing, long-distance touring, and a robust SUV culture remain priorities. Wei highlighted that the Tank 700’s V8 will differ from the performance-focused unit planned for GWM’s upcoming GFsupercar, set to debut in 2027. The GFsupercar will utilize a 4.0-liter twin-turbo, hybrid V8, while the Tank 700’s version is described as a more mainstream application.

Performance and Positioning

While the Tank 700 already offers a turbocharged V6 and plug-in hybrid variants—including one with over 860 hp (872 PS)—GWM’s introduction of a V8 suggests even more substantial performance potential. The Tank 700 occupies the top tier of the Tank lineup, blending rugged styling, luxury features, and off-road capabilities. It competes with premium SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, and Lexus LX, but with a more aggressive pricing strategy.

Market Priorities: Australia and New Zealand

Chairman Jack Wei explicitly named Australia and New Zealand as priority markets for the V8-powered Tank 700. These regions are known for their strong demand for high-performance SUVs with towing capacity and long-distance capability, aligning with the engine’s intended use case.