Rolling out the big guns

If you're still scanning the horizon for a Chinese automotive invasion you're looking the wrong way. It's already happening, and the new GWM Tank is the off-road spearhead into the highly lucrative and hotly contested lifestyle market.

- PIERRE STEYN

There was a time when you could add a caveat when discussing a new Chinese car: "Not bad but remember where it's built." That time has gone, and that caveat deserves to disappear too, much the same way "Jap scrap" or "Korean junk" did decades ago.

If you're still a sceptic, do yourself a favour and test-drive one of the new models from Chinese brands like Haval, Chery or GWM. The value-for-money proposition and warranties are not only best-in-class, but the cars themselves are well built with all the quality trimmings of more traditional high-end brands.

Enter the GWM Tank, a retro-looking, proper 4x4 built on a ladderframe chassis, with multi-link rear suspension and double-wishbone front suspension. With low range, 224 mm of ground clearance and an electronically lockable rear diff, it gives more expensive competitors like the Jeep Wrangler and Land Rover Discovery Sport a decent run for far less money.