Our test vehicle is the Cannon X which is the premium variant in GWM’s three-tiered range which includes entry-level Cannon and mid-grade Cannon L.  The X shares the same 2.0-litre turbo-diesel and German ZF-designed eight-speed automatic as its siblings, for a list of $45,490 Plus ORCs.
The optional Pittsburgh Silver prestige paint on our example adds another $595. Even so, the Cannon X represents knock-out value for money when compared with more mainstream (non-Chinese or Korean) competitors. For example, the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo Wildtrak in the new Ford Ranger line-up is $67,190, Nissan’s Pro-4X Warrior is $69,990 and Toyota’s latest Rogue HiLux flagship is $70,200.
So, if your jaw doesn’t drop at such a huge saving in purchase price, it will probably hit the floor when you discover how much standard equipment you get. Externally, in addition to its 18-inch alloys and 265/60R18 Cooper tyres with a full-size spare, there’s body-coloured bumpers with contrasting chrome grille, door handles and mirrors, LED headlights and DRLs, roof rails, side steps, polished stainless-steel sports bar, spray-in tub-liner, easy-lift tailgate with pull-out cargo step, rear diff lock, reversing and kerbside cameras, front and rear parking sensors, fog lamps with auto steering function, rear privacy glass and more.
Inside, the Cannon X adds keyless entry and push-button start, leather-trimmed upholstery with the front seats power-adjustable and heated. There’s also a leather-wrapped steering wheel equipped with paddle shifters for manual operation, the choice of three power-assist modes that adjust steering feel, plus tyre pressure monitoring and more.
Dual-zone climate control includes rear passenger vents and there’s a 360-degree camera, electric anti-glare rear-view mirror, wireless phone-charging, 12-volt/220-volt power outlets and multimedia system with 9.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and three USB ports. Yep, she’s fully loaded.