GWM Tank 500 vs Peugeot 408
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 Peugeot 408 opens at $57,990. That makes the Peugeot 408 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 $65,989 and $63,789 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Peugeot 408 by roughly $3,420 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Tank 500 and Peugeot 408 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the GWM Tank 500 and 79% for the Peugeot 408.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 5 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Tank 500 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Peugeot 408. The Peugeot 408 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, power tailgate and Focal audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Tank 500 uses a Hybrid producing 255kW and 648Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed auto to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds.
The Peugeot 408 responds with a Hybrid making 100kW and 230Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.4 seconds.
The GWM Tank 500 has the clear power advantage at 255kW vs 100kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Tank 500 is 0.9s quicker. 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, 388mm longer than the Peugeot 408 at 4,690mm (2,790mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Tank 500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 98L in the GWM Tank 500 and 508L in the Peugeot 408, giving the Peugeot 408 a 410L advantage. The GWM Tank 500 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the GWM Tank 500 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 1,300kg. That 1,700kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 11.2m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.8m 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 $2,423/year for the GWM Tank 500 and $1,739/year for the Peugeot 408. That is a $684 annual difference in favour of the Peugeot 408.
Estimated annual total: $2,423 (GWM Tank 500) vs $1,739 (Peugeot 408). The Peugeot 408 saves you roughly $684 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 / 200,000km (Peugeot 408). The GWM Tank 500 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Tank 500 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Peugeot 408 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Peugeot's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Tank 500 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. The Peugeot 408 will save you roughly $684 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Peugeot 408 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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