2022 GWM King Kong: Chinese pick-up under consideration for Australia

The 2022 GWM King Kong has been shown off in China, and the dual-cab ute could end up in Australian dealerships.

Details of the GWM pick-up emerged in the database of the Chinese Ministry of Industry, with local media reporting the King Kong is due to be fully unveiled at the Guangzhou motor show later this month.

"We’re always open to new models, such as the King Kong Ute, that could expand the GWM product portfolio in Australia," a spokesperson for GWM Haval told 4X4 Australia.

"While our regular discussions on product continue with our Head Office colleagues, it’s too early to say whether we’ll see it here," they added.

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Some outlets are also referring to the King Kong as the Poer Diamond Cannon, with its stablemate – known in locally as the GWM Ute – being badged as the Poer Cannon in its native country.

Curiously, Chinese rival Geely also has a model called the 'KingKong'.

GWM’s King Kong is available with two different tubs – a standard model with a length of 5365mm, or a long version with a length of 5635mm. Both have a payload of 500kg and a 3140mm wheelbase.

Despite the vehicle’s imposing looks, the standard version is actually shorter, narrower, and lower than the GWM Ute sold here.

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Reports are the King Kong will be offered with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine producing 123kW and 360Nm. Buyers get a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive, with drive fed through either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.

Higher-grade models are expected to come standard with LED headlights, keyless entry, sunroof, rear-view camera, dual-zone climate control, and side-steps.

Expect more information about the 2022 GWM King Kong to emerge following the model’s public debut in the coming weeks.