The GWM P300 has become Great Wall Motors’ most direct challenge yet to the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, and it’s quietly become South Africa’s best-selling Chinese bakkie in the process. If you’re cross-shopping it against the established double-cab regulars, here are the five things worth understanding before you commit. For full specs and current trims, see our GWM P300 model page.
It’s Built on a Proper Bakkie Platform
The P300 isn’t a soft crossover pretending to be a bakkie. It rides on a traditional ladder-frame chassis with double-wishbone front suspension and a leaf-spring rear axle, the same basic recipe used by the Hilux and Ranger. It’s the direct successor to GWM’s P-Series, carrying over that model’s body-on-frame construction while updating the styling, cabin and drivetrain. If durability and workhorse credentials matter to you, the underlying architecture is the right one.
There Are Two Engine Options, and They’re Quite Different
Entry-level single-cab derivatives use a 2.0T turbo diesel producing 120kW and 400Nm, paired with a manual gearbox. Higher-spec double cab models step up to a 2.4-litre turbodiesel making 135kW and 480Nm, mated to a 9-speed automatic. Fuel consumption varies by derivative and drivetrain, from around 7.4 L/100km on the 2WD models to roughly 8.2 L/100km on the flagship 4×4 automatic, according to GWM’s own published figures. Worth knowing before you decide which grade suits your budget and driving.
The 4×4 Version Is Genuinely Capable, Not Just Badge-Deep
The 4×4 double cab comes with selectable four-wheel drive, low range, a rear differential lock and a dedicated off-road crawl mode, along with a braked towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes. In independent testing, the 2.4T model has posted 0-100 km/h times that beat several established rivals in a straight line, including some higher-priced Ranger and Hilux derivatives. Where it’s less convincing is ride comfort on rough surfaces without a load in the back, so a test drive on your usual roads is worth the time.
The Warranty and Service Plan Are Genuinely Strong
GWM backs the P300 with a 7-year/200,000km warranty and a 7-year/75,000km service plan, alongside 7-year roadside assistance. That’s noticeably longer cover than most of its Japanese and American rivals offer as standard, and it’s one of the more compelling reasons buyers give the brand a serious look despite it being newer to the segment. The P300 also carries a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, so the crash protection credentials hold up under scrutiny.
It’s Positioned to Undercut the Segment Leaders
Double cab GWM P300 derivatives are priced to sit below equivalent Hilux and Ranger trims, while offering features like a 360-degree camera, lane departure assist and adaptive cruise control that aren’t always standard on the double cab Toyota. For the latest GWM P300 price in South Africa and current derivative line-up, check with your nearest dealer or our model page, since GWM has adjusted trims and specifications more than once since launch.
Comparing the P300 against the Hilux, Ranger or another Chinese bakkie for your next purchase? Get in touch with Top Chinese Car Brands at info@topchinesecarbrands.co.za, or visit our GWM P300 model page for the full spec sheet.
