The automotive landscape shifts once more as Great Wall Motors introduces its refreshed Cannon lineup for 2025. The Chinese manufacturer continues its ambitious global expansion with a strategic addition to its utilitarian pickup range – an affordable cab-chassis variant that targets both commercial operators and budget-conscious private buyers.
This latest move signals GWM’s determination to disrupt established market players by offering premium features at significantly lower price points. Industry observers note this approach has already yielded impressive sales growth in several international markets.
Breaking New Ground: The Cannon’s Evolution in Australia
The journey of GWM’s Cannon series represents one of the most successful Chinese automotive entries into Western markets. Initially met with skepticism, these pickups have gradually earned respect through consistently improving quality standards and practical design choices.
“We never expected Chinese utes would gain this much traction so quickly,” admits Daniel Kortenhorst, a veteran fleet manager I spoke with at last week’s launch event. “But you can’t argue with the value proposition anymore – they’ve closed the gap significantly.”
His sentiment echoes across the industry as GWM continues refining its offerings to better match local expectations. The 2025 model year brings subtle yet meaningful improvements across the range.
The new cab-chassis variant addresses a specific market gap for businesses seeking affordable work vehicles without sacrificing modern amenities. This calculated move positions the brand to compete directly with established players like Toyota’s HiLux Workmate and Ford’s Ranger XL.
Also Read: Explore the 2025 Tiggo 4, an Affordable SUV with Upgraded Style
Pricing Strategy: Undercutting the Competition
GWM’s aggressive pricing strategy remains its most potent weapon in the competitive pickup segment. The new cab-chassis Cannon starts at just $29,990 drive-away, representing exceptional value compared to similar offerings from Japanese and American brands.
This entry point sits approximately $7,000-$10,000 below comparable models from mainstream competitors. Such significant savings attract small business owners and fleet operators, keeping close watch on operating costs in today’s challenging economic climate.
The pricing structure follows GWM’s established pattern of offering substantially more standard equipment than similarly priced rivals. This approach has proven particularly effective in converting first-time Chinese vehicle buyers who might otherwise harbor reservations about the brand.
“We’re essentially getting a mid-spec ute for base model money,” explains Sarah Winters, owner of a landscaping business considering the Cannon for her growing fleet. “The math simply makes sense for our bottom line.”
| Model | Starting Price (Drive-Away) | Key Standard Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cannon Cab-Chassis | $29,990 | 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, reverse camera |
| Cannon Utility | $33,490 | Above plus tub, side steps, bed liner |
| Cannon Luxury | $38,990 | Above, plus leather seats, 360° camera, heated seats |
| Cannon Premium | $44,990 | Above plus adaptive cruise, sunroof, premium audio |
Technical Specifications and Performance
The 2025 Cannon maintains the reliable 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine that has become a cornerstone of the model’s appeal. This powerplant delivers a competitive 163kW and 450Nm of torque, figures that match or exceed many more expensive competitors.
Fuel efficiency remains impressive with a claimed combined consumption of 8.4L/100km. Real-world testing suggests these figures are reasonably achievable, particularly in highway driving scenarios.
The eight-speed automatic transmission continues as standard equipment across most variants, though the new cab-chassis offers a six-speed manual option. This manual variant further reduces the entry price to attract traditional work truck buyers.
Towing capacity holds steady at 3,000kg braked, which satisfies most private users, though it falls short of the class-leading 3,500kg offered by some premium competitors. Payload capacity improves slightly to 1,150kg, addressing previous criticisms.
Chassis and Construction Improvements
Engineers have reinforced the chassis for 2025, addressing feedback from commercial users who occasionally pushed previous models to their limits. The ladder frame now features additional cross-members and thicker materials at key stress points.
Suspension tuning receives market-specific calibration, with Australian models benefiting from thousands of kilometers of local testing. The result delivers a noticeably improved ride quality without sacrificing load-carrying capability.
Ground clearance increases slightly to 232mm, enhancing off-road capability without making daily access more difficult. Approach and departure angles measure 27 and 25 degrees, respectively, competitive figures for the segment.
Wading depth remains unchanged at 800mm, sufficient for most water crossingsthat users might reasonably attempt. Underbody protection has been enhanced with thicker skid plates protecting vital components.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Cannon continues to be its interior presentation. Even the base cab-chassis variant offers materials and assembly quality that would not feel out of place in substantially more expensive vehicles.
The standard 9-inch touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, eliminating the cable clutter that plagues many work vehicles. Voice control functionality works reasonably well, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel.
“I was genuinely shocked by how nice the cabin feels,” admits Roger Hernandez, who recently switched from a five-year-old HiLux. “It makes those long days on job sites much more bearable.”
Climate control operates effectively even in extreme conditions, with testing conducted in Australia’s harsh outback environment. Seat comfort represents another high point, with better lumbar support than many competitors.
Storage solutions abound throughout the cabin, with thoughtfully designed compartments for work essentials like documents, devices, and personal items. The center console easily accommodates larger smartphones and includes USB-A and USB-C charging ports.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Safety equipment remains comprehensive across the range, with even the base cab-chassis including seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, and traffic sign recognition. This safety focus represents a significant evolution from earlier Chinese vehicles.
Higher trim levels add blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The top-spec Premium variant includes a semi-autonomous parking system rarely found in this vehicle segment.
ANCAP testing results show consistent five-star ratings across recent model years, with particularly strong scores in adult occupant protection. Child occupant protection scores have improved with the 2025 updates.
Driver assistance systems function with reassuring consistency, avoiding the false alarms that plague some competitors. Lane keeping assistance provides gentle corrections rather than the aggressive interventions some systems employ.
Practicality and Workspace Functionality
The cab-chassis variant introduces new possibilities for customization to suit specific business needs. Buyers can choose from several factory-backed tray options or work with aftermarket suppliers for specialized configurations.
Standard mounting points and wiring provisions simplify the installation of common accessories like light bars, tool boxes, and specialized equipment. This thoughtful preparation reduces after-purchase modification costs.
The cabin layout prioritizes practical considerations, with durable materials in high-wear areas and easily cleaned surfaces throughout. Rubber floor mats come standard, protecting carpets from worksite debris.
Rear seat space in dual-cab variants remains unchanged, offering sufficient room for adult passengers on shorter journeys. Storage under the rear bench accommodates tools or equipment that require protection from the elements.
Work-Ready Features
Several thoughtful touches demonstrate GWM’s growing understanding of commercial user requirements. Multiple 12-volt outlets throughout the vehicle support power tools and accessories, while an available 230-volt inverter handles more demanding equipment.
Pre-wiring for UHF radios simplifies installation for rural users or those working in remote areas. Similarly, provisions for additional lighting and recovery equipment appeal to off-road enthusiasts.
Tie-down points exceed industry standards in both number and strength, addressing a common criticism of earlier models. Load distribution guides molded into the bed help users properly position cargo for maximum stability.
A factory-fitted tow package includes an integrated brake controller, eliminating the need for aftermarket installation. This system works seamlessly with the vehicle’s electronic stability control for safer towing.
Ownership Experience and Warranty
GWM continues to build confidence with an industry-leading 7-year/unlimited kilometer warranty. This coverage exceeds traditional market leaders and includes roadside assistance for the full warranty period.
Service intervals remain set at 12 months/15,000km, with capped price servicing available for the first five years of ownership. These costs run approximately 15-20% below equivalent Japanese competitors.
Parts availability has improved dramatically as the brand establishes a more comprehensive dealer network. Most common maintenance items now maintain similar availability to mainstream brands.
Customer satisfaction surveys show steady improvement, with the brand now ranking mid-pack rather than at the bottom of industry measures. Repeat purchase intention has increased significantly, suggesting growing brand loyalty.
Real-World Ownership Reports
Conversations with existing Cannon owners reveal generally positive experiences, particularly regarding value for money. Minor electronic glitches appear in some early production vehicles but are typically resolved under warranty.
Fuel efficiency receives consistent praise, with most owners reporting figures close to manufacturer claims. This efficiency proves particularly valuable for businesses monitoring operating costs.
Resale values show significant improvement compared to earlier Chinese vehicles, though they still lag behind established brands. This gap continues to narrow as market acceptance grows.
Commercial operators report favorable experiences with vehicle durability, even under demanding conditions. This real-world reliability helps overcome lingering perception issues regarding Chinese manufacturing quality.
Competitive Landscape and Market Position
The 2025 Cannon enters a fiercely competitive market segment dominated by established players with decades of presence. Toyota’s HiLux and Ford’s Ranger continue their sales dominance but face increasing pressure from value-oriented alternatives.
GWM’s strategy targets price-sensitive buyers who prioritize features over brand prestige. This approach yields particular success with first-time pickup buyers and small business operators.
Market share continues growing steadily, with the Cannon now regularly appearing among the top ten best-selling pickups in several markets. This performance represents remarkable progress for a relatively new entrant.
Industry analysts predict continued sales growth as brand recognition improves and positive ownership experiences generate word-of-mouth recommendations. The cab-chassis variant should accelerate this trend by opening new market segments.
Comparison with Key Rivals
| Feature | GWM Cannon | Toyota HiLux | Ford Ranger | Mitsubishi Triton |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $29,990 | $39,990 | $41,990 | $36,240 |
| Power | 163kW | 150kW | 157kW | 135kW |
| Torque | 450Nm | 500Nm | 500Nm | 430Nm |
| Warranty | 7 years | 5 years | 5 years | 10 years* |
| Towing | 3,000kg | 3,500kg | 3,500kg | 3,100kg |
| Std Screen | 9-inch | 7-inch | 8-inch | 7-inch |
*Mitsubishi’s warranty requires dealer servicing for the full duration
Value Champion with Fewer Compromises
The 2025 GWM Cannon, particularly in its new cab-chassis configuration, represents compelling value that’s increasingly difficult to ignore. While established brands maintain advantages in dealer network size and proven long-term reliability, the gap continues narrowing with each model update.
For buyers willing to consider alternatives to traditional market leaders, the Cannon delivers substantial savings without significant compromises. This equation proves especially attractive for cost-conscious businesses and private buyers stretching their budgets.
“Five years ago, I wouldn’t have considered a Chinese ute,” concludes fleet manager Kortenhorst. “Today, I’d be irresponsible not to include them in the evaluation process.”
This sentiment increasingly reflects market reality as GWM’s consistent improvement strategy yields tangible results. The 2025 Cannon may not dominate sales charts, but it has earned legitimate consideration alongside established competitors.
The addition of an affordable cab-chassis variant completes a comprehensive lineup that addresses nearly every pickup buyer’s needs. This calculated expansion demonstrates GWM’s growing understanding of global markets and commitment to long-term presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the 2025 GWM Cannon be available in Australia?
The full lineup, including the new cab-chassis variant, arrives in dealerships from June 2025.
Does the GWM Cannon use a timing belt or chain?
All Cannon models utilize a timing chain designed for the life of the engine, reducing maintenance requirements.
Can the cab-chassis version be ordered with factory trays?
Yes, GWM offers three different factory-approved tray configurations or buyers can choose aftermarket options.
What is the service interval for the Cannon?
Services are required every 12 months or 15,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.
Does the Cannon cab-chassis come with cruise control?
Yes, even the base model includes standard cruise control, with adaptive cruise available on higher trims.