Two all-new SUVs coming to South Africa – with one launching soon
SUVs have long been a very popular vehicle segment in South Africa, and this hasn’t gone unnoticed as car brands continue to launch new models every year – which includes two all-new SUV entries, the electric Mahindra Thar.e and GWM Tank 300.
Mahindra unveiled its electric concept version of its popular Thar 4×4 at the company’s Futurescape event in Cape Town, alongside the next-generation bakkie concept.
According to Engineering News, the Mahindra Thar.e will head for South Africa when it reaches production form, but it does not yet have a timeline mapped out for when this will be.
However, The new GWM Tank 300 is much closer to reality for South African motorists, as it is set to make its South African debut before the end of 2023, the manufacturer confirmed all the way back in January.
GWM’s newest SUV is already on sale in global markets such as the Middle East, China, and Australia.
Tank 300
Chinese automaker’s GWM Tank 300 is expected to retail in South Africa from a starting price of R685,900.
According to TopAuto, this was confirmed by the COO of Haval Motors South Africa, Conrad Groenewald, who added the top-spec variation would retail for around R 851,900.
The 300 is described as a rugged “ORV” (off-road vehicle) that will be taking on the likes of the BAIC B40 Plus and Jeep Wrangler, sporting burly styling, decent off-roading credentials, and high-tech features.
While the specifications and line-up for South Africa are still undisclosed, looking at Australia’s spec sheet gives a good idea of what’s on offer.
The 4×4 SUV will come with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, a nine-speaker sound system, an electric driver seat, ambient lighting, automatic LED lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The new SUV is entering the market with two engine options.
One is a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine generating 162kW and 387Nm, combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission option. This includes a part-time four-wheel-drive setup with 2H, 4H, and 4L settings.
The second is a hybrid configuration (HEV) that generates up to 258kW and 615Nm and connects to a nine-speed auto-box with full-time 4WD.
Groenwald from GWM said that the Tank sits on a ladder-frame chassis, similar to the P-Series giving it “serious offroad credentials”.
The high-rider Tank 300 also boasts a 224mm ground clearance as well as an approach angle of 33 degrees, and a departure angle of 34 degrees.
Mahindra Thar.e
The electric Thar comes from Mahindra Electric Automobiles Limited (MEAL), a subsidiary of the automaker based in India.
The Thar.e is still in the concept phase, but it features a unique modular construction using the INGLO EV platform and a body made of up to 50% recycled fabrics and plastics, promoting sustainability, reported TopAuto.
“Creating Vision Thar.e was about embracing a future that’s bold and innovative. Our design forges a new path, standing as a testament to Mahindra’s commitment to cutting-edge creativity and breakaway thinking,” said Pratap Bose, the Chief Design Officer at Mahindra.
“We have maintained the adventurous spirit and off-roading capability that is quintessentially Thar, but we have crafted a unique identity in the world of electric SUVs,” said Mahindra.
According to TopAuto, the interior is intended to feel minimalist while still functional, thanks to an uncluttered environment that is kitted out with items like a central media screen that is able to pivot to face different users.
Because it is still in concept form, little is known about the Mahindra Thar.e aside from its appearance, with potential design changes possible before the full unveiling.
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