GWM'S Cannon Alpha Hybrid was the first proper hybrid 4x4 ute to hit the mainstream Australian market when it was launched earlier this year. We were pretty impressed with the big ute when we had a short drive of it at the launch and were keen to get into it for a longer evaluation.
A bit of background on the newish model; the Alpha is the bigger version of the popular GWM Cannon midsize ute and the Ultra is the top specification model. The Alpha is still midsize... but at the big end of that segment. It's akin to a Ford Ranger/ VW Amarok as it's not as big as a full-size F-150 or Ram 1500.
The Cannon Alpha measures 5445mm long (35mm longer than Cannon Ute), 1991mm wide (57mm wider than Cannon Ute) and is 1924mm high (38mm taller than Cannon Ute), while the 3350mm wheelbase is 120mm longer than that of a Cannon Ute.
The Alpha is more than just big and hybrid, it's also exceptionally well appointed, probably more so than any other midsize 4x4 ute and more akin to the higher-spec US pickups. Slip inside via the large, wide-opening doors and you're met with plush leather, big screens, a huge sunroof and a swag of features.
The Napa-leather-covered seats are ventilated and heated front and rear, with massaging on the front pews. The rear seats also have an electric slide and recline function that does away with the upright backrest that is customary in double-cab utes, improving comfort for passengers in the back, however, this is restricted depending on how far back the front seat occupants have their seats. If a tall driver has his/her seat all the way back it doesn't leave a lot of space for the seat behind to slide forward and recline, although in a normal, upright position, there's plenty of leg and head room in the back.
On the dash the 14.6-inch infotainment screen is both big and easy to see and use. It is home to all the usual system settings and controls, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mirroring functions.
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