Hard-core GWM Tank 300 Topfire wanted in Australia

GWM Australia has confirmed to carsales that it is keen to build on the “strong launch” of the new 2023 GWM Tank 300 with a 4x4 off-road hero model such as the Topfire Tank 300 Iron Cavalry 2.

Unveiled in China earlier this year as a special-edition flagship, the Iron Cavalry 2 is the Tank 300’s current flagship that’s designed to go deeper off-road than the already impressive standard versions.

The Iron Cavalry 2 been co-developed with Chinese aftermarket 4x4 accessories provider Topfire and comes loaded with capability-boosting gear.

Chief among them is an all-new suspension set-up comprising more sophisticated Eibach springs and eight-way-adjustable nitrogen shock absorbers.

The new set-up yields a two-inch lift and pairs with retro-inspired 17-inch wheels wrapped in aggressive 285/70-profile BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tyres to offer 238mm of ground clearance as well as improved approach and departure angles of 34 and 37 degrees respectively.

Contributing to the better approach angle is a new winch-compatible steel front bumper similar to that of a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, which also forms a key part of the Iron Cavalry’s toughened exterior look.

The latter is complemented by new wheel-arch flairs, a matching rear bumper, the aforementioned wheels, a vented bonnet, sleek-looking snorkel and roof basket.

The snorkel is fully functional and said to improve the Tank 300’s 700mm wading depth, but an official figure for the Iron Cavalry hasn’t been published.

No changes have been made to any of the Jeep-hunting wagon’s mechanical components, meaning you still get three differential locks, a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine good for 162kW/380Nm and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

GWM Australia marketing and communications boss Steve Maciver told carsales the local operation’s current focus was on continuing the Tank 300’s “strong launch” in our market, but said that the door was open to expand the range in future with a model like the Topfire.

“Keeping complexity of model range to a reasonable level is important for our customers and dealers at this stage, the current model line-up for Tank 300 is suitable,” he said.

“But as volume grows, that of course opens up the door to additional variants.

“There’s no doubting the appeal of an SUV like the Topfire Tank 300 and I’m sure if it, or a similar variant, was made available Down Under it would certainly become another strong option for Australian buyers.”

Even if the Iron Cavalry or a similar model doesn’t materialise Down Under, the vehicle does at least preview some of the genuine accessories on the way for the Tank 300, which is quickly endearing itself as an immensely popular and capable budget off-roader.

“A selection of GWM genuine accessories are already available from dealers nationwide, with more in development and due for release in the coming months,” Maciver said.

The current accessories range includes a range of different floor mat and boot liner options, nudge bars, bonnet protectors, roof racks, tow bar assembly and a weather shield kit.

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