Chery E5 vs GWM Cannon
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars 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 Chery E5 starts from $37,990 before on-road costs, while the GWM Cannon opens at $39,490. That makes the Chery E5 the more affordable entry point by $1,500.
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 $41,789 and $43,439 respectively.
The Chery E5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The GWM Cannon, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Chery E5 and GWM Cannon hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Cannon packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Chery E5.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Chery E5 and 6 in the GWM Cannon.
Feature Showdown
The Chery E5 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the GWM Cannon gets a 10.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Chery E5 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated front seats and Sony audio that you will not find on the GWM Cannon. The GWM Cannon counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Chery E5 uses a Electric producing 155kW and 288Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds.
The GWM Cannon responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The Chery E5 has the clear power advantage at 155kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Chery E5 is 2.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Chery E5 measures 4,424mm long on a 2,610mm wheelbase, 916mm shorter than the GWM Cannon at 5,340mm (3,200mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Cannon generally means more rear legroom.
00Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 13.0m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Chery E5) vs 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Cannon). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Chery E5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Chery's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the GWM Cannon if: You or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Chery E5 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Chery E5 and GWM Cannon?
The Chery E5 is the cheapest at $37,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the GWM Cannon by $1,500.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The GWM Cannon uses the least fuel at 8L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Chery E5 and GWM Cannon all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Chery E5 has the largest boot at 400L.
Which can tow the most?
The GWM Cannon has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Chery E5 makes the most power at 155kW. The Chery E5 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.9s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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