GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV Review: Range, Price, and Features (2025)

Anyone who’s been waiting for a plug-in hybrid ute that doesn’t shrink from the rough stuff already knows the pickings have been thin. The GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV aims to change that, pairing a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor and proper four-wheel drive, positioning itself as a genuine alternative to everything from the diesel HiLux to the BYD Shark with a claimed 110 kilometres of electric range from Burwood GWM (a Sydney-based dealer).

Engine Power: 180kW · Engine Torque: 380Nm · Engine: 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder · Drivetrain: Hi4T plug-in hybrid · Body Style: Dual-cab ute

Here are the key specifications for the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, sourced from manufacturer data and automotive reviews.

Is the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV a good car?

Performance and powertrain

The Cannon Alpha PHEV uses a 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol plug‑in hybrid powertrain (CarExpert, a trusted Australian automotive review site). The petrol engine alone delivers 180kW and 380Nm, but the combined system output from the engine and integrated electric motor reaches 300kW and 750Nm, as detailed by Burwood GWM. That’s more than enough to match – and in some cases exceed – the numbers of diesel rivals.

The electric motor is located within the transmission, as 4×4 Australia noted in their driveline description. This layout allows seamless power blending and keeps the weight distributed low.

Off-road capability

This isn’t a soft‑road ute with a hybrid badge. EV Central describes it as a “serious off‑road‑oriented plug‑in ute”. The four‑wheel‑drive system includes front and rear diff locks, and the dual‑cab chassis provides a solid base for suspension articulation.

The Hi4T technology, explained by GWM Australia, manages torque distribution between axles automatically. In practice, that means the driver can focus on line selection rather than fiddling with dials.

“The Cannon Alpha PHEV driveline comprises a turbocharged 2.0‑litre petrol engine and an electric motor that is located within the transmission.”

— 4×4 Australia

Comfort and interior

Inside, the Lux and Ultra grades offer dual‑zone climate control, a large touchscreen, and leather‑accented seats in the Ultra. The rear seat has enough room for two adults, though the middle seat is best left for short trips. Noise insulation is respectable for a ute, partly thanks to the electric motor’s quiet operation at low speeds.

Safety and features

GWM has equipped the Cannon Alpha PHEV with autonomous emergency braking, lane‑keep assist, and adaptive cruise control as standard. The Ultra adds blind‑spot monitoring and rear cross‑traffic alert. ANCAP has not yet published a rating, but the structure shares fundamentals with the existing Cannon range.

What is the range of the GWM Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid?

Electric-only range estimates

Official NEDC figures from Burwood GWM state 110km of electric driving range. EV Central reports a claimed 115km in combined driving. The discrepancy likely stems from different test cycles or trim-level weight differences. EPA figures have not been published for the Australian market, so treat NEDC numbers as optimistic by about 25–30%.

Combined petrol-electric range

Burwood GWM lists a combined (petrol + electric) range of 880km on the NEDC cycle. That’s roughly 680–750km in real‑world conditions, assuming the hybrid system operates efficiently on highways. The 2.0‑litre engine acts as a generator when the battery depletes, so you won’t be stranded.

Factors affecting range

Cold weather, heavy towing, and sustained high speeds will cut the electric range significantly. The absence of a heat pump (common on many PHEVs) means the petrol engine will run more often to warm the cabin in winter, and off‑road use with diff locks engaged also draws more current.

How much does a GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV cost?

Base model pricing

CarExpert lists the Lux grade at $59,990 before on-road costs, while Chasing Cars reports a drive‑away price of $62,990 for private buyers at the time of their review. The Ultra grade is priced at $66,990 before on-road costs, with Chasing Cars quoting $69,490 drive‑away.

Ultra PHEV pricing

The Ultra adds leather seats, a sunroof, a 360‑degree camera, and larger alloy wheels. CarExpert’s indicative drive‑away prices varied by state – for example, $71,090 in Western Australia and $61,490 for the Lux in the ACT. These differences reflect stamp duty and registration variances.

On-road costs and incentives

As a plug‑in hybrid, the Cannon Alpha PHEV may qualify for state‑based EV rebates in some Australian jurisdictions (e.g., ACT, NSW, Victoria). Check your local eligibility, as incentives can reduce the effective price by $3,000–$5,000. Australian market conditions, including Public Holidays Australia 2025, can affect dealership availability and test drive schedules. Check current listings on Carsales for the best deals.

How long does it take to charge a GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV?

Charging options: Level 1 and Level 2

GWM has not published official charging times, but typical PHEV behaviour applies. Level 1 (standard household 10A outlet) will take approximately 8–10 hours to fully charge the (undisclosed) battery. Level 2 (7.2kW home charger) should reduce that to around 3–4 hours.

Battery capacity and charge time estimates

Without official battery capacity figures, we can estimate based on the 115km NEDC range and typical efficiency. A 15–18kWh pack is plausible, which matches other PHEV utes like the BYD Shark (18.3kWh). A 7.2kW Level 2 charger would replenish an 18kWh pack in about 2.5 hours. For comparison, you might want to check our guide on Electric Car Rental Near Me in Ireland to understand broader EV charging contexts.

Public charging infrastructure

The Cannon Alpha PHEV uses a Type 2 AC connector (no CCS DC fast charging). That means you can top up at any standard public AC charger, but you won’t find rapid DC charging. For most daily commutes, overnight home charging is sufficient.

What are the disadvantages of PHEV cars?

Higher purchase price vs hybrids

A traditional hybrid (like the Toyota HiLux hybrid, if it existed) would cost less up front. The Cannon Alpha PHEV’s $60k+ starting price is several thousand dollars above equivalent diesel dual-cabs. The premium is partially offset by fuel savings, but payback periods can exceed 5 years for low‑mileage drivers.

Battery degradation and replacement cost

All lithium‑ion batteries degrade over time. The Cannon Alpha PHEV carries an 8‑year unlimited‑kilometre battery warranty (EV Central), which provides peace of mind. However, out‑of‑warranty replacement could cost $5,000–$10,000 depending on pack size.

Weight and efficiency trade-offs

PHEVs carry extra mass from the battery and electric motor. The Cannon Alpha PHEV weighs roughly 2,200–2,400kg, around 200kg more than a diesel Cannon. On long highway trips with a depleted battery, fuel economy can be worse than a diesel because the petrol engine has to move the extra weight.

Reliability concerns for Chinese brands

GWM (Great Wall Motors) has improved its reputation in Australia with a 7‑year unlimited‑kilometre warranty and growing dealer network. However, some buyers remain cautious about long‑term reliability compared to established Japanese brands. Early owner reviews are still scarce, so the verdict is pending.

GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV vs BYD Shark – Comparison

Two plug‑in hybrid utes now battle for Australian buyers. Here’s how they stack up.

Clarity: What we know vs what remains uncertain

The pattern here is clear: while initial specs and warranty are strong, independent verification on range, charging, and safety is still needed. Buyers should weigh the confirmed strengths against the significant data gaps.

Quotes from the experts

“Our Cannon Alpha uses a 2.0L four-cylinder turbo petrol good for 180kW and 380Nm.”

— EV Central

“The Cannon Ultra PHEV driveline comprises a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor that is located within the transmission.”

— 4×4 Australia

The consistency across these reviews suggests a well-engineered powertrain, but real-world ownership data will ultimately confirm these early impressions.

Frequently asked questions