New GWM Cannon-XSR ute confirmed, it’s much more than a sticker pack update

GWM has just announced a new Cannon ute, going under the moniker of Cannon-XSR. While the news of this recent announcement is fresh, we can confirm this vehicle will feature a swag of proper off-road-focused inclusions. 

Competition is a good thing, and it’s safe to say this recent announcement will catch the attention of the main players in the 4×4 dual-cab space. GWM is also a company on the grow, with sales up a reported staggering 324% year to date. 

What’s the story with the Cannon-XSR ute?

What we know so far, is the Cannon-XSR is based on the GWM Ute dual-cab platform. The powertrain will remain the same with the XSR as the rest of the Cannon range. This includes the 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine and 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. 

The XSR will be the top-of-the-line model in the Cannon range. The focus of this model is to include as much comfort as well as off-road-focused technology as possible. From what we have been told, orders are open if you want to make one your own. We are looking forward to reviewing this model in the near future also.

What’s actually new?

There are some frankly useless additions on the GWM Cannon-XSR, such as red-painted brake calipers. In saying that, there are a bunch of really cool things we need to discuss, too. I’m talking about things like front-and-rear diff lockers. You read that right; front and rear diff locks are standard. 

GWM tells us there is a new selectable part-time four-wheel drive system. This features a traditional 2WD, 4WD high-range and 4WD low-range.

Crawl Mode and Turn Assist by Braking have also been announced, which are handy in technical terrain. There is also what GWM is calling a passive front stabiliser. I’m going to assume this is a disconnecting front swaybar, which will provide more suspension travel on technical terrain. 

Off-road armour 

Both the front and rear bumpers are made from steel, to provide protection on the job site or on the tracks. Underbody guards have also been confirmed, however, we can’t say whether they are made from steel, alloy, or composite material. 

In terms of tyres, the Cannon-XSR rolls off the production line on 18-inch wheels, with 265x65r18 all-terrain tyres. 

Tell ‘em the price

If you are in the market for a new dual-cab ute, here is the pricing for the GWM Cannon-XSR.

• $51,490 driveaway for ABN buyers  
• $52,990 driveaway for private buyers 

All GWM vehicles are backed by a 7-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. This also included 5 years of roadside assistance and 5 years of capped-price servicing. 

List of Cannon-XSR features  

The GWM Cannon is already a well-specced ute, that is one of the aces up its sleeve after all. Below is a list of everything you get in the top-of-the-line GWM Cannon-XSR: 

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlights and taillights
• Heated leather-appointed seating
• Power adjustable drivers (6-way) and front passenger (4-way) seats
• 7-inch colour instrument cluster
• 9-inch LCD touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Wireless charging
• Automatic Anti-Glare Rear-view Mirror
• 12v power outlet (including roof) & 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 & rear differential lock
• 7 SRS airbags (including centre)
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) & 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
• 360-degree around view camera