Watch out, 2023 Toyota LandCruiser Prado! Great Wall's new Tank 500 Hybrid brings petrol-electric power and low emissions to big off-roader fight

Great Wall (GWM) has revealed the all-new Tank 500 large SUV’s second powertrain option, a ‘self-charging’ hybrid that’s aptly named HEV.

Of course, the off-road-focused Tank 500 is GWM’s answer to the all-conquering Toyota Prado, which is coincidentally expected to be available with a ‘self-charging’ hybrid powertrain when its next generation arrives, likely next year.

Either way, the Tank 500 debuted last August with a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6 engine and a mild-hybrid system, but the fresh variant combines a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit with an electric motor that’s integrated into its nine-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.

While the Tank 500’s bent six produces a considerable 260kW of power and 500Nm of torque, its new low-emissions option develops a more modest 180kW and 380Nm.

The HEV’s fuel consumption on the combined-cycle test is yet to be released, but it’s safe to assume it will be more efficient than its sibling, even with a four-wheel-drive system still naturally in tow.

It’s also not yet clear if both versions of the Tank 500 come with the same low-range transfer case and three differential locks (front, centre and rear), although hill-descent control is common.

For reference, the Tank 500 measures 5070mm long (with a 2850mm wheelbase), 1934mm wide and 1905mm tall, and has approach, departure and breakover angles of 29.6, 24 and 22 degrees respectively.

Inside, the Tank 500 is headlined by a ‘floating’ 14.9-inch touchscreen multimedia system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. There’s also plenty of leather upholstery and wood trim – plus a crystal gear selector – to provide a luxury feel.

As reported, GWM’s emerging Tank sub-brand is firming for an Australian launch, possibly as early as next year, with 16 recent local trademark applications clearing the path for it do so, but a spokesperson told CarsGuide "no decision has been made yet".