Jeep Compass vs GWM Tank 500
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 Jeep Compass starts from $50,500 before on-road costs, while the GWM Tank 500 opens at $59,990. That makes the Jeep Compass the more affordable entry point by $9,490.
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 $55,550 and $65,989 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Jeep Compass by roughly $4,845 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Jeep Compass stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and heated front seats that you will not find on the GWM Tank 500. The GWM Tank 500 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Jeep Compass uses a Petrol I4 Mild Hybrid + 48V producing 96kW and 240Nm of torque, sent through a 7-speed dual clutch automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10 seconds.
The GWM Tank 500 responds with a Hybrid making 255kW and 648Nm, paired to a 9-speed auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The GWM Tank 500 has the clear power advantage at 255kW vs 96kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Tank 500 is 1.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Jeep Compass measures 4,404mm long on a 2,636mm wheelbase, 674mm shorter than the GWM Tank 500 at 5,078mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Tank 500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 438L in the Jeep Compass and 98L in the GWM Tank 500, giving the Jeep Compass a 340L advantage. The GWM Tank 500 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the GWM Tank 500 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 1,450kg. That 1,550kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m to 11.2m
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m 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 $1,454/year for the Jeep Compass and $2,423/year for the GWM Tank 500. That is a $969 annual difference in favour of the Jeep Compass.
Estimated annual total: $1,454 (Jeep Compass) vs $2,423 (GWM Tank 500). The Jeep Compass saves you roughly $969 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 100,000km (Jeep Compass) vs 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Tank 500). The GWM Tank 500 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Jeep Compass if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Jeep's approach to design and ownership experience.
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.
The Verdict
The GWM Tank 500 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. The Jeep Compass will save you roughly $969 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Jeep Compass 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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