GWM Cannon Alpha

The GWM Cannon Alpha is a large four-wheel-drive ute that broadens the usual diesel-only formula with a choice of turbo-diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains. That variety gives buyers a meaningful choice between the familiar long-distance practicality of diesel power and the quieter, potentially more efficient character of a hybrid system for everyday driving. The range is positioned as a more comfort-focused interpretation of the modern ute, while retaining the hardware and versatility expected from a work and touring vehicle.

Five variants are presented across the range: Lux Diesel, Vanta Diesel, Ultra, Lux PHEV and Ultra PHEV. The diesel line-up includes 3.0-litre turbo-diesel power in Lux and Vanta form, while the Ultra Diesel uses a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine. The two PHEV versions use a 2.0-litre turbo plug-in hybrid system. This spread of powertrains allows the Cannon Alpha to be matched more closely to its intended use, whether that involves regular commuting, extended touring, towing or work requiring a conventional diesel refuelling routine.

The plug-in hybrid versions use GWM's Hi4-T hybrid intelligent four-wheel-drive system. Its combination of petrol and electric drive is intended to make short trips more refined and efficient, while the system's four-wheel-drive hardware adds capability when surfaces become difficult. The PHEV system incorporates a BorgWarner transfer case with low range, and the Ultra PHEV is specified with front and rear differential locks. These features are relevant to owners who need more than cosmetic off-road styling, although actual performance will depend on conditions, tyres, load and driver inputs.

Practicality is supported by the ute body, fixed side steps and, on the Ultra and Ultra Hybrid variants, a 60/40 split tailgate designed to make access to the cargo bed easier. A high-mounted LED tray light is also listed, providing useful illumination when loading or working around the tray in low light. The published range includes a 3500kg braked towing capacity for selected variants, making the Cannon Alpha relevant to towing duties, subject to the precise model specification and applicable limits.

Inside, the Cannon Alpha aims to provide a more sophisticated environment than a basic commercial vehicle. Depending on the chosen grade, equipment includes faux leatherette, leather-accented or Nappa leather-accented seating, along with electrically adjustable front seats. The Ultra versions add heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, while the Ultra hybrid variant offers reclining outer second-row seats with electric adjustment. These details should make longer journeys more comfortable for both the driver and passengers without removing the underlying utility of the ute format.

Technology is centred on a pair of screens, with the model information identifying a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 14.6-inch touchscreen on relevant specifications. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are listed for the diesel Lux and Vanta variants, and GWM app connectivity is also described. The safety package includes automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition and driver fatigue monitoring, while a 360-degree camera system and parking sensors are available across the listed grades. A five-star ANCAP rating is stated for the model, although equipment and ratings should always be checked against the exact local variant.

• Lux Diesel and Vanta Diesel variants with 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engines
• Ultra Diesel variant with a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine
• Lux PHEV and Ultra PHEV variants with 2.0-litre turbo plug-in hybrid powertrains
• Hi4-T hybrid intelligent four-wheel drive with low-range capability on PHEV models
• Available 3500kg braked towing capacity on specified variants
• 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen on listed model grades
• 360-degree camera system and parking sensors on selected variants
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on listed diesel grades

With its combination of ute practicality, multiple powertrain choices, substantial towing capability and higher-grade cabin features, the Cannon Alpha is designed to cover a broad range of uses. The key distinction within the range is the choice between diesel simplicity and the additional electric-drive flexibility of the PHEV models, followed by the comfort and off-road equipment differences between Lux, Vanta and Ultra specifications.

Other highlights include Drive train: 4x4.