GWM is stepping up its 4×4 presence in Australia in 2026, with a focus not just on new models, but on expanding dealer coverage and strengthening aftermarket support for the off‑road community.

Wider dealer coverage and enhanced aftermarket support mean easier access to servicing, spare parts, and technical expertise for 4×4 owners, whether they are based in the city or in more remote areas. Urban buyers benefit from quicker turnaround times for repairs and upgrades, while rural and regional owners can have confidence that specialist off‑road vehicles can be maintained closer to home, reducing downtime on long trips or outback adventures.

Dealer expansion is central to GWM’s strategy. The network is set to grow to 135 sites nationally in 2026, up from 123, providing wider access to sales, servicing, and parts for 4×4 owners. A new flagship showroom in Rockingham, WA, opening in April, will feature close to 1000 sqm of floor space and a customer‑focused layout designed to better support off‑road enthusiasts.

Confirmed arrivals include the Tank 300 Hi4‑T PHEV, due in April, and a new 3.0‑litre turbo‑diesel engine that will make its global debut in Australia under the Cannon Alpha and Tank 500. Mid‑year, the Cannon will adopt the Hi4‑T PHEV system, giving GWM the only dual‑cab ute line‑up in Australia with two plug‑in hybrid variants.

For off‑road buyers, the Tank 300 Hi4‑T PHEV brings substantive capability alongside its electrification. The plug‑in hybrid pairs a 2.0 litre turbo‑charged petrol engine with a 120 kW electric motor to deliver a combined 300 kW and 750 Nm, with a braked towing capacity of 3,000 kg and a full mechanical 4×4 system that includes part‑time 4H/4L gearing and low‑range transfer case. 

The vehicle also supports Vehicle‑to‑Load (V2L) output, letting owners power tools or campsite gear directly from the battery. A 37.1 kWh battery gives an electric‑only range around 115 km (NEDC) and a combined range approaching 955 km, with DC fast‑charging capability that can bring the battery from 30 per cent to 80 per cent in about 24 minutes. Interior features include a 12.3‑inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual‑zone climate control, and a suite of safety tech.

Beyond individual models, GWM plans to launch up to 10 new or refreshed vehicles across SUVs, utes and passenger cars in 2026, with diesel and electrified options broadening choice for buyers. Electrification remains a key focus, with Hi4 and Hi4‑T systems designed for real‑world performance on and off‑road.

“The wider electrification of the GWM range, led by our class‑leading technologies, is something that we firmly believe will enhance our brand position and sales momentum Down Under,” said John Kett, GWM ANZ’s COO.

“Several years ago, GWM made a deliberate choice to design Hi4 and Hi4‑T as class‑leading examples of four‑wheel electrification, engineered for outstanding performance both on and off‑road. This relentless focus on innovation and continuous improvement is what we firmly believe will drive the next phase of our growth in Australia.”

“Product is only one element of success. Expanded dealer network coverage, enhanced aftersales support, improved parts availability and comprehensive technical training will form the core foundations of our pursuit of a top five position. These are non‑negotiable.”

Later in the year, GWM will also introduce its first premium brand in Australia, WEY, alongside the mid‑size Haval Jolion Max SUV, further broadening its offering.

According to VFACTS data for January 2026, GWM sold 885 Cannon and Cannon Alpha models, giving it a 6.5 per cent share of the dual-cab 4×4 market – ahead of the Kia Tasman (410), Mazda BT-50 (780), and Nissan Navara (450). The introduction of a second plug-in hybrid variant later in 2026 is expected to boost these numbers further, offering buyers more choice and efficiency in the popular ute segment.

Staffing has grown 20 per cent to support the expanded range and dealer footprint, and GWM is targeting more than 60,000 vehicle sales in 2026. 

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