Sunday China Drive | Tank 700 hybrid power meets off-road capability in a robust SUV
The Tank 700 Hi4-T, developed by Great Wall Motor‘s off-road division, is a large SUV that combines hybrid powertrain technology with off-road capabilities. A 3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor produces a combined output of 517 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque.
- الإعلان - الإعلانات
Exterior:
The Tank 700 Hi4-T is a large vehicle measuring 5.11 meters in length, 2.12 meters in width (including mirrors), and nearly 2 meters in height. The vehicle’s dimensions, including a 3-meter wheelbase, contribute to its robust stance. The standard version has a more restrained exterior but focuses on off-road functionality, with approach and departure angles of 32 and 33 degrees due to its shorter bumpers.
- الإعلان - الإعلانات
Our test car rides on 275/50 R22. The vehicle’s design ensures focus on stability and presence on the road, with the windy enhancing performance.
Interior:
The Tank 700 Hi4-T offers a spacious cabin with five seats. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and the rear seats feature adjustable angles and a massage function, making them suitable for long-distance driving. However, the overall interior space may feel limited for taller passengers, as the cabin’s length might require more legroom. The lack of electric door suction for the rear doors stands out as an oversight, especially given the price of the vehicle.
- الإعلان - الإعلانات
While the interior is practical, it lacks some of the finer details seen in other premium vehicles. Storage solutions and certain elements, like the rear door functionality, could be improved for added convenience. However, the overall design is functional for its intended purpose.
Cargo Space:
The Tank 700 Hi4-T’s trunk space is relatively compact for an SUV of its size. However, the high-loading platform makes loading larger or heavier items into the trunk difficult. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity, but the trunk’s dimensions still need to be improved.
Behind the wheel
The Tank 700 Hi4-T’s driving experience reflects its hybrid powertrain and large size. The 3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, combined with an electric motor, produces 517 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque, offering substantial power. The SUV performs well on the road, with smooth acceleration and minimal road noise. The suspension system absorbs road imperfections, contributing to a comfortable ride. However, the large size and weight (curb weight of 3,110 – 3,195 kg) make the vehicle more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, such as narrow streets or parking lots.
The high driving position offers good visibility of the surroundings, which is helpful in both urban and off-road driving. While the size does pose some challenges in confined spaces, the vehicle remains stable at higher speeds, and the handling is predictable, favoring comfort over agility.
The Tank 700 Hi4-T performs well off-road, benefiting from a high ground clearance and a well-tuned suspension system. The hybrid powertrain provides a good balance of power for tackling rough terrain, such as dirt roads and uneven surfaces. Its approach and departure angles are 32 and 33 degrees in the standard version. The vehicle handles off-road conditions effectively. The Tank 700 has a towing capacity of 2,500 kg, which makes it practical for hauling trailers or other heavy loads.
Verdict:
The Tank 700 Hi4-T is a large, hybrid-powered off-road SUV that combines rugged capability with a comfortable driving experience. Its spacious interior and hybrid powertrain perform well on highways and rough terrains. However, the limited cargo space and challenges in tight spaces may be drawbacks for some users. While the Tank 700 Hi4-T is well-suited for long-distance drives and off-road adventures, it could benefit from further refinement in certain areas, such as interior storage and rear door functionality.
Stay tuned for next week’s Sunday China Drive at Car News China, where you can read more first-person evaluations of Chinese cars.
