The renamed and comprehensively updated GWM Cannon arrives in Australian showrooms this February, showcasing significant improvements across power, technology, and features. While entry pricing has increased, the 2025 model demonstrates GWM's commitment to closing the gap with established ute competitors.
| Model | Drive-away Price | Change | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cannon Lux 4x4 | $40,490 | +$4,000 | Base model with enhanced specs |
| Cannon Ultra 4x4 | $43,490 | New variant | Added luxury features |
| Cannon Vanta 4x4 | $45,490 | +$2,000 | Black styling elements |
| Cannon XSR 4x4 | $49,990 | -$3,000 | Off-road focused flagship |
Muscular New Heart
The 2025 Cannon receives a significant powertrain upgrade borrowed from the larger Cannon Alpha:
- 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine
- Power: 135kW (+15kW over previous model)
- Torque: 480Nm (+80Nm over previous model)
- New nine-speed automatic transmission
- Improved 3500kg towing capacity
- Fuel efficiency: 8.4L/100km
Premium Interior Evolution
The interior transformation focuses on modernization and simplification:
- 12.3-inch central touchscreen dominates the dashboard
- 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster
- Wireless smartphone integration
- Multiple USB-A and USB-C ports
- Wireless charging capability
- Simplified control layout emphasizing digital interaction
Variant-Specific Features
Cannon Ultra Additions:
- Electric sunroof
- Leather-accented seats with heating/ventilation
- Heated steering wheel
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Ambient lighting
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Cannon Vanta Highlights:
- 18-inch black alloy wheels
- Black sports bar
- Matte black exterior trim
XSR Off-Road Credentials:
- Specialized off-road drive modes
- Front differential lock
- Integrated snorkel
- Body-colored exterior trim
Comprehensive Safety Suite
The Cannon maintains strong safety credentials:
- Five-star ANCAP rating (excluding XSR)
- Seven airbags including front-center
- Advanced driver assistance systems
- Surround-view camera (Ultra and Vanta)
- Full suite of active safety features
Ownership Experience
GWM backs the Cannon with a competitive ownership package:
- Seven-year unlimited kilometer warranty
- Five years roadside assistance
- Capped-price servicing program (pricing TBA)
- First service at 6 months/5000km
- Subsequent services at 12 months/10,000km
The 2025 GWM Cannon represents a significant evolution for the Chinese manufacturer's ute offering. The more powerful engine and enhanced towing capacity bring it in line with segment leaders like the Ranger and HiLux, while the improved interior technology and features demonstrate GWM's understanding of modern ute buyers' expectations.
The pricing strategy is particularly interesting, with the base model seeing an increase while the flagship XSR receives a price cut. This suggests GWM is positioning the Cannon more strategically in the competitive ute segment, offering better value at the top end while maintaining profitable margins on volume sellers.
The addition of the new Ultra variant fills a previous gap in the lineup, providing a luxury-focused option without the off-road pretensions of the XSR. This broader range should appeal to a wider variety of buyers, from tradies to family buyers looking for a premium ute experience.
While the higher entry price might raise eyebrows, the significantly improved specification level, more powerful engine, and enhanced technology help justify the premium. The Cannon now presents as a more complete package, ready to challenge established players in the competitive ute segment.
