2022 GWM Ute cab-chassis coming to Australia, local tuning under study

Great Wall Motors (GWM) has confirmed a dual-cab chassis version of its 2022 GWM Ute pick-up for Australia next year – along with word that local suspension tuning and vehicle development is under consideration.

Quietly confirmed alongside a five-star ANCAP rating (albeit with caveats, detailed here), the new GWM Ute dual-cab chassis model will offer a factory-fitted aluminium tray as standard – though other details, including payload, price and standard equipment are yet to be confirmed.

"GWM will introduce a new Dual Cab Chassis version of the Ute sometime early in 2022. Supplied with factory-fit aluminium tray, this new model will provide additional appeal for Australia's huge army of tradespersons and primary producers," GWM Australia says in its media release.

In February, Drive unearthed Australian government certification documents for a cab-chassis version of the Ute, though this model was a two-door, single-cab vehicle – and the car maker has not filed for a dual-cab version since.

Prices for the dual-cab chassis model are yet to be confirmed, however depending on whether two- or four-wheel drive is standard, expect it to start lower than the current tub-backed line-up, priced from $33,990 drive-away for the Cannon 4x2, or $35,990 drive-away for the Cannon 4x4.

Power is expected to come from the same 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine as the current range, developing 120kW and 400Nm. Six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions have been certified for sale, though it's unclear if one or both will be offered.

The next step in GWM's Australian growth plans could come in the form of local vehicle tuning, with the company confirming Australian programs are being considered.

"GWM is also exploring local options for vehicle enhancement, engineering and tuning to further strengthen its appeal to Australian buyers," the brand says in its media release.

Local suspension tuning is conducted most prominently by Korean brands Kia and Hyundai, to adjust their vehicles for Australian conditions, improving the driving experience and providing a selling point over rival manufacturers.

Fellow Chinese manufacturer LDV has also engaged with local firm Walkinshaw to tune the suspension used by its T60 ute, while other brands including Jeep are known to conduct new vehicle development in Australia.