Johannesburg, 19 August 2025 – Already a category-defining force in South Africa’s fiercely competitive bakkie market, the GWM P500 now turns up the presence with a bold new design. Introducing stealth-inspired black detailing across its exterior, the refreshed range signals a more aggressive, modern stance – while retaining the innovation, luxury, and power that recently earned it the 2024 South African Bakkie of the Year crown.
“The P500 already leads in performance, comfort and innovation. Now its design reflects that same leadership. It’s bold, modern and unmistakably forward-thinking. This update goes beyond style – it’s about making a statement,” says Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing at GWM South Africa.
A DESIGN EVOLUTION
Measuring 5 445 mm in length and nearly 2 metres wide, the P500 was never shy. But its new blacked-out exterior raises the game. A gloss-black grille dominates the front fascia, complemented by black roof rails, mirrors and a restyled black styling bar – collectively heightening the bakkie’s commanding presence.
LED headlights and smoked-glass tail lamps bring a premium, high-tech finish, while GWM’s practical ingenuity shines through in touches such as the split-opening tailgate, capable of barn-door operation for effortless loading.
POWERTRAIN CHOICE: DIESEL OR HYBRID
The P500 range continues to offer serious power matched with forward-thinking technology.
- 2.0T HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle): The star of the line-up, South Africa’s first full hybrid bakkie, delivers a formidable 255 kW and 648 Nm, channelled through a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission with standard 4×4 capability. The result: instant torque, remarkable efficiency, and versatility across terrain.
- 2.4T Turbo Diesel: A robust, efficient workhorse, producing 135 kW and 480 Nm, well-suited to both commercial operators and private adventurers.
With a 3 500 kg towing capacity, selectable low-range gears, front and rear differential locks and a 3 350 mm wheelbase, the P500 is engineered to handle everything from demanding worksites to weekend trails.
SUV-LIKE LUXURY
Step inside, and the P500 blurs the lines between bakkie and luxury SUV. Its cabin is wrapped in black Nappa leather, with front seats that are electric, heated, ventilated, and even massaging. Rear passengers are equally pampered with independent climate control, heated and cooled seating, and power adjustment – rare luxuries in the double-cab segment.
Technology is cutting-edge, with 12.3- or 14.6-inch infotainment screens, a 10-speaker Harman Infinity™ audio system, wireless charging (front and rear), a panoramic sunroof, and a 4-way adjustable steering column. Comfort and convenience extend even to details like a rear centre armrest with built-in wireless charging and an electric sliding rear window.
SAFETY WITHOUT COMPROMISE
The P500 integrates advanced safety features more commonly associated with premium passenger vehicles. These include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane Keep Assist & Adaptive Cruise Control
- Driver Fatigue Monitoring
- 360° Surround Camera System
- Rear Cross-Traffic Warning & Front Collision Warning
- Seven airbags (including centre airbag)
This suite of intelligent technologies underscores GWM’s commitment to occupant protection and driver confidence.
AWARD-WINNING RECOGNITION
The South African Bakkie of the Year 2024 accolade confirmed the P500’s ability to redefine expectations. Judges praised its off-road mastery, premium comfort and balanced powertrains, awarding it victories in both the 126–160 kW and 161+ kW categories before naming it the overall winner.
“The P500 proves that bakkies can be both powerful and premium,” notes Ramabulana. “This design update builds on that momentum, ensuring the P500 remains unmistakably ahead of the curve.”
OWNERSHIP PEACE OF MIND
Every P500 is backed by a comprehensive aftersales package:
- 7-year / 200 000 km warranty
- 8-year / 150 000 km battery warranty (HEV only)
- 7-year / unlimited km roadside assistance
- 7-year / 75 000 km service plan
- 12-month / 15 000 km service intervals
PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
The newly restyled GWM P500 range is available at GWM dealerships nationwide, 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
For more information or to book a test drive, visit gwm.co.za or your nearest GWM dealership.
With its blend of stealthy design updates, groundbreaking hybrid powertrain, SUV-rivalling luxury and award-winning credibility, the GWM P500 is not just keeping pace with South Africa’s bakkie market – it’s redefining it.
