GWM Tank 500 vs BMW X1
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs 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 Tank 500 starts from $59,990 before on-road costs, while the BMW X1 opens at $61,800. That makes the GWM Tank 500 the more affordable entry point by $1,810.
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 $65,989 and $67,980 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW X1 by roughly $3,845 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Tank 500 and BMW X1 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the GWM Tank 500 and 86% for the BMW X1.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Tank 500 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the BMW X1.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW X1 counters with head-up display, heated front seats, power tailgate and Harman Kardon audio that the GWM Tank 500 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Tank 500 uses a Hybrid producing 175kW and 648Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed auto to a 4WD layout.
The BMW X1 responds with a Petrol making 115kW and 230Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.1 seconds.
The GWM Tank 500 has the clear power advantage at 175kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Tank 500 measures 5,078mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 578mm longer than the BMW X1 at 4,500mm (2,692mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Tank 500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 98L in the GWM Tank 500 and 410L in the BMW X1, giving the BMW X1 a 312L advantage. The GWM Tank 500 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the GWM Tank 500 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.3m diameter
Average
Based on 11.3m 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 $2,622/year for the GWM Tank 500 and $1,853/year for the BMW X1. That is a $769 annual difference in favour of the BMW X1.
Estimated annual total: $2,622 (GWM Tank 500) vs $1,853 (BMW X1). The BMW X1 saves you roughly $769 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Tank 500) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X1). The GWM Tank 500 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Tank 500 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW X1 if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Tank 500 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW X1 will save you roughly $769 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW X1 has a clear edge. The GWM Tank 500 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. 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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