Flagship GWM Ute set for turbo V6 power

GWM Australia is hoping to get its hands on a new flagship version of the GWM Ute – dubbed the Shanhai – that will give the Chinese brand its closest rival yet for the likes of the new-generation Ford Ranger Wildtrak, complete with a turbo-petrol V6, bigger 2.4-litre turbo-diesel and a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.

The 2022 GWM Shanhai Pao emerged at the Chengdu motor show last weekend with a bigger and bolder presence, as seen with its more pronounced front-end (complete with massive chrome grille), redesigned LED headlights, large imitation skid plate and, along its flanks, retractable side steps.

At the rear, GWM’s big new ute also features a split swinging tailgate – where two halves swing outwards – and a pair of steps integrated into the rear bumper for easier access to the tub.

The cabin is also an upmarket affair featuring imitation wood trim, two-tone leather upholstery, a digital cockpit and expansive infotainment interface, while automatic parking is included.

But the big news lies in the powertrain department, where an all-new turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol V6 – rumoured to produce more than 255kW/500Nm – is paired exclusively to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

What’s more, a 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel option will be offered on the Shanhai – there’s no output figures yet, though it should comfortably exceed the current GWM Ute’s 120kW/400Nm 2.0-litre oil-burner – as well as a frugal new 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.

The latter was detailed in the new GWM Tank 300 HEV also shown in Chengdu, where output figures of 224kW/640Nm for the 4x4 off-roader were confirmed ahead of its expected launch in Australia next year.

Drive will be sent to all four wheels permanently via a BorgWarner 4A+LOCK four-wheel drive system.

A GWM Australia spokesperson confirmed to carsales that the local division is looking into a business case for a new flagship model line based on the GWM Shanhai Pao.

This could also potentially unlock all three powertrains to filter across to other GWM Ute models.

Similarly, the long-wheelbase GWM King Kong Cannon remains under study for Australia.

A full-electric version of the GWM Ute is also known to be in development, but hasn’t yet reached production.

Not stopping there, GWM Australia is also continuing to build a case for the larger GWM X Cannon full-size pick-up that would rival the likes of the RAM 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado.

carsales understands the case for the X Cannon is looking strong, fuelled by continued growth in the market and recent announcements regarding the local conversion of the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra.

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