Lexus NX 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 Lexus NX starts from $59,900 before on-road costs, while the GWM Tank 500 opens at $59,990. That makes the Lexus NX the more affordable entry point by $90.
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 $65,890 and $65,989 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Lexus NX by roughly $4,415 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus NX and GWM Tank 500 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Lexus NX and 88% for the GWM Tank 500.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Lexus NX packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the GWM Tank 500.
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 Lexus NX stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, power tailgate and ambient lighting 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 Lexus NX uses a Petrol producing 152kW and 243Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9 seconds.
The GWM Tank 500 responds with a Hybrid making 175kW and 648Nm, paired to a 9-speed auto driving the rear wheels.
The GWM Tank 500 has the clear power advantage at 175kW vs 152kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus NX measures 4,660mm long on a 2,690mm wheelbase, 418mm 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 520L in the Lexus NX and 98L in the GWM Tank 500, giving the Lexus NX a 422L advantage. The GWM Tank 500 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the GWM Tank 500 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,650kg. That 850kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m diameter
Average
Based on 11.4m 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 $1,739/year for the Lexus NX and $2,622/year for the GWM Tank 500. That is a $883 annual difference in favour of the Lexus NX.
Estimated annual total: $1,739 (Lexus NX) vs $2,622 (GWM Tank 500). The Lexus NX saves you roughly $883 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX) vs 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Tank 500). The GWM Tank 500 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus NX)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus NX if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus'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
This is genuinely close. The Lexus NX and GWM Tank 500 trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Lexus NX will save you roughly $883 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Lexus NX 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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