By Otsile Kadiege

The bakkie segment in South Africa is always buzzing, and the GWM P500 has been right at the centre of that conversation. Already a category-defining contender, and crowned South African Bakkie of the Year 2024, the P500 now returns with even more attitude. This time, it’s not just about the power and luxury (though it has plenty of both). It’s about presence. A fresh design update sees the P500 rolling out with stealthy black touches that give it a more aggressive, street-smart edge.

Bold new style

Measuring 5 445 mm in length and nearly 2 metres wide, the P500 was never shy to begin with. Now, the new black styling package dials things up further.

1) A gloss-black grille sets the tone up front.

2) Black roof rails, styling bar and mirrors give it a premium yet menacing stance.

3) LED headlights and smoked-glass tail-lamps keep the futuristic vibe alive.

And just to remind everyone it’s not all show, the split-opening tailgate still offers barn-door practicality, a small touch that makes a big difference when loading up.

SUV-like luxury interior

Step into the P500 and you might just forget you’re in a bakkie. The cabin is loaded with features you’d expect from a premium SUV.

1) Black Nappa leather trim with heated, ventilated and massaging front seats

2) Heated and cooled rear seats, plus power adjustment for passengers

3) Two infotainment setups (12.3-inch or 14.6-inch) with a 10-speaker Harman Infinity system

Front and rear wireless charging, panoramic sunroof, and a 4-way adjustable steering column

Rear passengers are just as spoiled, with independent climate controls, a centre armrest with charging, and even seat adjustment to make getting in and out easier.

Safety and advanced driver assistance features

Safety and advanced driver assistance features of the P500 include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and a Driver Fatigue Monitoring System. Also standard is a 360-degree camera system, seven airbags (including a centre airbag), Rear Cross-Traffic Warning System and Front Collision Warning.

Perfromance

The GWM P500 is available with two powertrains: a high-output turbo diesel or a self-charging petrol-electric hybrid (HEV).

1) 2.0T HEV hybrid: The star of the show. With 255 kW and 648 Nm, this is the first full hybrid bakkie in South Africa, and easily one of the most powerful around. It’s paired with a 9-speed auto and standard 4×4, delivering smooth, instant power on and off the road.

3) 2.4L turbo diesel: A workhorse option with 135 kW and 480 Nm, perfect for those who value durability and efficiency.

No matter the engine, every P500 comes with a 3 500 kg towing capacity (because muscle matters in this segment).

Pricing

The new GWM P500 is available in three grades:

P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Luxury – R799,900

P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Super Luxury – R889,900

P500 2.0T HEV 9HAT 4X4 Ultra Luxury – R999,900