GWM Cannon Alpha vs LDV Terron 9
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The GWM Cannon Alpha starts from $52,990 before on-road costs, while the LDV Terron 9 opens at $50,990. That makes the LDV Terron 9 the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $58,289 and $56,089 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the LDV Terron 9 by roughly $1,425 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Cannon Alpha and LDV Terron 9 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the GWM Cannon Alpha and 91% for the LDV Terron 9.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the GWM Cannon Alpha and 7 in the LDV Terron 9.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Cannon Alpha features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the LDV Terron 9 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Cannon Alpha stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the LDV Terron 9. The LDV Terron 9 counters with MG Sound audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Cannon Alpha uses a 2.4L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel producing 135kW and 480Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The LDV Terron 9 responds with a Diesel Turbo making 163kW and 520Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.8 seconds.
The LDV Terron 9 has the clear power advantage at 163kW vs 135kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Cannon Alpha is 0.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Cannon Alpha measures 5,445mm long on a 3,350mm wheelbase, 55mm shorter than the LDV Terron 9 at 5,500mm (3,300mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Cannon Alpha generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the LDV Terron 9 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
13.0m to 13.3m
Based on 13.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.3m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,537/year for the GWM Cannon Alpha and $2,252/year for the LDV Terron 9. That is a $285 annual difference in favour of the LDV Terron 9.
Estimated annual total: $2,537 (GWM Cannon Alpha) vs $2,252 (LDV Terron 9). The LDV Terron 9 saves you roughly $285 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Cannon Alpha) vs 7 years / 200,000km (LDV Terron 9). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Cannon Alpha if: You or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the LDV Terron 9 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer LDV's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The LDV Terron 9 takes 3 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The LDV Terron 9 will save you roughly $285 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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