In a bold move defying the industry trend of downsizing diesel engines, Great Wall Motors (GWM) is developing a new 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine for its upcoming Cannon Alpha and Tank model lines, set to launch in 2027.
This new engine will be featured in the Cannon Alpha ute, as well as the Tank 500 and Tank 700 variants, but it will not be available for the current generation of Cannon or Tank vehicles. GWM executives have confirmed the engine’s development, which is designed to enhance vehicle performance, fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions compared to the existing 2.0- and 2.4-litre diesel engines.
The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel is part of GWM’s broader strategy to diversify its powertrain options, which will include diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric configurations. Currently, GWM offers two diesel powertrains in Australia: a 120kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo-diesel and a 135kW/480Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
In addition to the new diesel engine, GWM has announced plans for a four-litre V8 petrol engine, likely to power either the Tank 500 or Tank 700 models. This engine may also be used in the Cannon Alpha PHEV, as these vehicles share the same chassis. The V8 is expected to deliver power exceeding that of GWM’s V6 hybrid engine, which produces 380kW and 800Nm.
GWM is also preparing for the launch of its much-anticipated Cannon Alpha PHEV in Australia, a direct competitor to the BYD Shark. The Alpha PHEV, set to arrive in showrooms soon, is powered by a 180kW/380Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a nine-speed transmission. When combined with its 37.1kWh ternary lithium battery, the Alpha PHEV will deliver a total output of 300kW and 750Nm, offering significantly more torque than the Shark’s 321kW/650Nm.
GWM’s strategic focus on a diverse range of powertrains highlights its commitment to meeting varying consumer demands while pushing forward into the electrification and performance vehicle markets.