Great Wall Motors (GWM) has unveiled a significantly upgraded 2026 Cannon ute in China, featuring a hardcore off-road package designed to compete directly with high-performance rivals like the Ford Ranger Raptor and Nissan Navara Warrior. This development raises the possibility of a more capable Cannon variant reaching Australian showrooms.
Зміст
New Off-Road Focus
The updated Cannon, revealed at the Guangzhou International Auto Show, introduces several key off-road enhancements. These include 3mm chassis armor to protect the undercarriage, a front-mounted T-Max winch, K-Man nitrogen shock absorbers, and a snorkel for increased water fording capability. Rugged steel bumpers and off-road side steps further reinforce the vehicle’s durability.
The package boosts ground clearance to 228mm—an improvement over the existing Cannon XSR, though still short of the Ranger Raptor’s 272mm—and allows for 500mm water wading. Drivers gain access to nine driving modes, including specialized settings for rock crawling, snow, sand, and mud. A Borg Warner 4×4 system with front, center, and rear differential locks ensures maximum traction, while a creeper mode is designed for precise low-speed maneuvering.
Australian Prospects
GWM Australia has confirmed it is “under consideration” for the Australian and New Zealand markets, though no decision has been made on timing. The current Cannon lineup already includes the XSR model, which offers some off-road capability, but the new package represents a substantial leap in performance.
Powertrain and Performance
The Cannon Off-road package retains the existing 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, producing 135kW and 480Nm, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is also used in the GWM Tank 300. Despite no changes to the engine, the off-road package significantly enhances the vehicle’s capability.
The Cannon has been the best-selling pickup in China for 27 years, but has not yet gained significant market share in Australia, where it competes with established models like the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger. GWM Australia is also evaluating a single-cab V6 variant for local sale, contingent on demand and the need to meet New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES).
Real-World Testing
The Cannon has proven its off-road prowess in challenging conditions, successfully climbing Beer O’clock Hill at The Springs 4×4 Park in Queensland. This test demonstrated its capability in a demanding environment, showcasing its ability to tackle difficult terrain.
The Cannon Off-road package represents a serious upgrade to the GWM lineup, positioning it as a more competitive contender in the Australian ute market. If launched locally, it would offer buyers a high-performance off-road option at a potentially lower price point than its rivals.
