GWM POER300: the latest budget-friendly work vehicle from £31,495

Chinese manufacturer GWM is bringing the new POER300 into the UK market. Promising serious workhorse capability at a wallet-friendly price, has a new budget pickup king arrived?

The pickup market is serious business these days. From the best-selling Ford Ranger Wildtrak, to the cheap-as-chips KGM Musso, to the buzz-generating Isuzu D-Max EV, more and more pickups are taking to UK roads year-on-year. And is that any surprise? Striking a middle ground to handle everything from demanding trades, to delivery shifts, to weekend adventures, these trucks make a lot of sense to us.

Getting in on this hype, GWM is throwing its hat into the ring with the new POER300 double-cab pickup, set to land in the UK this month. Priced from £31,495, and pronounced ‘POWER’ (because the letter ‘W’ has gone out of fashion, it seems) this newcomer is poised as a value-for-money offering, but does that make it a compelling option for businesses, and beyond? 

Practicality for your pounds

As you’ve probably guessed by now, the POER300 is a far cry from the brand’s cutesy Funky Cat or Ora 03 GT. Under this pickup’s bonnet you’ll find no electric motor, but instead a traditional 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine, delivering a respectable 180 hp and 480 Nm of torque. Partnered with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a full-time, low-range capable 4x4 system, the POER300 can shift more than just the passengers sat within its double cab. 

Capabilities extend to a 1,000 kg payload and 3,500 kg towing capacity, putting it right in the same ballpark as the similarly price-focussed Musso pickup — although the truck formerly known as SsangYong can still boast a slightly lower £30,965 price tag. Mildly controversial company indeed, but we reckon this shows the GWM pickup’s strong intent to reach customers who prioritise practicality and work-like performance, without breaking the bank. 

“With the POER300, GWM UK is delivering unmatched utility, power, and technology at a very competitive price point in the UK market. We fully expect the GWM POER 300’s combination of capability and value to resonate strongly with small business users, and rural dwellers, who rely on vehicles such as this as a backbone of their businesses and lifestyles.” - Toby Marshall, GWM UK Managing Director

Versatility meets value

But there is more going on here than just hauling and towing prowess, the POER300 aims to be a versatile tool too. 

The 4x4’s off-road credentials, including a 27° approach angle, 25° departure angle, 230 mm of ground clearance, and a rear differential lock, are further enhanced by all-terrain modes for conditions including snow, mud, and sand. Based on this, we expect the POER300 to be well-equipped to handle challenging terrains, whether being put to work in agricultural settings, on muddy jobsites, or tackling weekend adventures.

Accessible luxury

And no matter how rugged an activity you’re partaking in, why not be comfortable while you do it? Stepping into the POER300, the cabin offers a pleasant blend of modern tech surrounded by premium-feel, soft-touch materials. This is headlined by a simplified console layout featuring a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7.0-inch instrument display, and a wireless charging area. 

Still not luxurious enough for you? Fear not: GWM is offering the POER300 in two additional trim levels above the entry-level ‘Lux’. The base variant does come equipped with 18-inch alloys, leatherette seats, keyless entry, and rear parking sensors as standard, which is strong start. However, ticking the ‘Ultra’ box adds heating to those seats, ambient lighting, privacy glass, a sunroof, a tailgate step, and a 360° camera. Then, opt for the top-level ‘Vanta’ trim, and you’ll effectively engage stealth mode, unlocking a blacked-out exterior, complete with wheel arches and black alloy wheels — completing a relatively plush lineup for a commercial setting.

So, the GWM POER300 is arriving in the UK with a clear mission: to offer a capable and comfortable pickup experience without a premium price tag. Whether it can unsettle its established competitors is yet to be seen, but it is shaping up as a compelling new contender packed with value and versatility. But will the POER300 prove that you don't need to break the bank to get the job done?

Hero image credit: Newspress UK