GWM ups the ante with Cannon XSR

Cannon XSR adds improved off-road ability, features; priced from $51,490 d/a

RESPONDING to strong demand, GWM Ute has introduced a new top of the range variant of the popular Cannon one-tonne dual-cab ute called the Cannon XSR.

Priced from $51,490 drive-away for ABN holders (add an extra $1500 for private buyers), the extremely well-equipped XSR has a few direct competitors, but potentially LDV’s T60 Max Luxe Megatub at $49,463 drive-away, the SsangYong Musso Ultimate XLV at $43,590, and possibly the Mitsubishi Triton GSR Double Cab at $56,940 plus on-road costs.

GWM’s previous top of the range Cannon Vanta ute sells for $46,490 drive-away.

But the newcomer ratchets everything up a notch or two with a focus on off road capability. To this end, the XSR features a new part-time 4WD system with selectable 2WD and 4WD (high- and low-range) with front and rear locking differentials to provide enhanced operation in tougher off-road conditions.

Making their debut on the XSR are useful off-road features: Crawl Mode and Turn Assist by braking that are only available on this model in the GWM line up.

Improving suspension articulation and enhancing off roadability in the most extreme conditions is a passive front stabiliser while underbody chassis and front guard protection shield vulnerable exterior areas.

Further improving the vehicle’s off-road credentials are new, rugged 18-inch alloy wheels (finished in black) shod with 265/65 all-terrain tyres.

Only available in dual-cab body style, the XSR package adds $5000 to the previous range topping Vanta, but the value added could have appeal for serious off-road drivers, especially with the selectable 4WD system and locking diffs.

It runs the same powertrain as the rest of the GWM Ute range with a 2.0 litre turbo-diesel engine mated to a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatictransmission. Maximum output from this engine is 120kW and 400Nm placing the XSR roughly on par with competitors.

Not content with equipping the XSR with improved off-road kit, GWM has decided to make a visual statement with the model by fitting red brake callipers as a design cue unique to the model. This is in addition to a new front grille treatment, a sports bar which extends further down the side of the rear tub and the addition of a snorkel.

Holding strong appeal are the model’s front and rear steel bumpers where most competitors (and others) have plastic bumpers or none (at the rear).

A sunroof is also fitted, making its GWM Ute debut on the Cannon-XSR “so that drivers and passengers are able to add more enjoyment to their outdoor adventures,” says GWM Ute.

Additional kit includes LED head- and taillights, heated leather-appointed seating, power adjustable drivers (six-way) and front passenger (four-way) seats, a 7.0-inch colour instrument cluster and a 9.0-inch LCD centre touchscreen.

This is in addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, automatic anti-glare rear-view mirror, 12v power outlet (including roof) and 220v power outlet, front and rear USB ports, sunroof, sports bar, snorkel, side steps, tub liner, roof rails, easy up/down tailgate, cargo ladder, front and rear differential lock.

And on the safety side the newest Chinese model offers seven SRS airbags (including centre), autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and forward collision warning (FCW), lane departure warning (LDW), lane keep assist (LKA), lane centre keep (LCK), adaptive cruise control (ACC), traffic sign recognition (TSR), tyre pressure monitoring (TPMS), rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system.

The vehicle is available in five exterior colours with Pearl White a no-cost option. Crystal Black, Pittsburgh Silver, Sapphire Blue and Scarlet Red are an additional $595.

As with all GWM vehicles, the new Cannon-XSR is backed by a seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, five-years roadside assistance and five-years capped price servicing.

2023 GWM Cannon pricing*:

*National drive-away price for private buyers.

Keyword: GWM ups the ante with Cannon XSR