GWM Cannon Australia 2026 — 2.0L vs 2.4L, Towing, Payload & Model Guide

The GWM Cannon has changed substantially from the original GWM Ute that arrived in Australia. For current buyers, the biggest distinction is between the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel used in Premium variants and the newer 2.4-litre turbo-diesel used in Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR models.

This guide covers the current Australian GWM Cannon range, towing capacity, payload, 4x4 hardware, safety, body configurations and accessory-fitment considerations. It focuses on the regular Cannon range. The larger Cannon Alpha is a separate model with different dimensions, drivetrains and accessory requirements.

GWM Cannon Australia 2026: Current Range at a Glance

GWM currently offers the Cannon in several dual-cab and cab-chassis configurations. The regular range includes Premium, Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR, plus selected single- and dual-cab-chassis versions. Specifications vary significantly by variant, so towing, payload and accessory compatibility should always be checked against the exact vehicle.

Specification	Premium	Lux / Ultra / Vanta / XSR
Engine	2.0L turbo-diesel	2.4L turbo-diesel
Transmission	8-speed automatic	9-speed automatic
2.4L output	—	135kW / 480Nm
Maximum braked towing	3,200kg	3,500kg
4x4 differential lock	Rear on applicable 4x4 variants	Rear; XSR also adds front differential lock

Specifications differ by variant and body style. Always confirm the current manufacturer specification for the exact vehicle before towing, loading or modifying it.

2.0L vs 2.4L GWM Cannon

The current Cannon range effectively gives Australian buyers two diesel powertrain groups. Premium variants retain the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel with an 8-speed automatic, while Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR use GWM's newer 2.4-litre turbo-diesel and 9-speed automatic.

The 2.4L produces 135kW and 480Nm. That extra output is paired with a higher maximum braked towing rating of 3,500kg on Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR variants. Premium variants are rated to 3,200kg braked towing.

For buyers who mainly need an everyday dual-cab or work vehicle and do not require the higher towing rating, Premium remains relevant. Buyers regularly towing heavier trailers or caravans, or wanting the newer drivetrain and higher-output specification, will generally be comparing the 2.4L variants.

The decision should not be based on engine output alone. Payload, kerb weight, body configuration, drivetrain, accessories and tow-ball download all affect how much useful capacity remains once the vehicle is loaded.

GWM Cannon Towing Capacity

The headline towing figure for the current GWM Cannon is up to 3,500kg braked, but that figure does not apply to every Cannon. GWM specifies 3,500kg for Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR variants, while Premium is rated to 3,200kg braked.

A tow rating is only one part of a legal and practical towing setup. Owners also need to consider the exact vehicle's GVM, GCM, payload, tow-ball download and axle limits. Passengers, fuel, a canopy, roller shutter, drawers, roof rack, fridge, recovery equipment and tools all contribute to vehicle weight.

For a touring build, it is worth planning accessories before adding them. A vehicle can have a 3.5-tonne tow rating yet have much less payload available once the ute itself is fully equipped and the trailer's ball weight is applied.

Payload: Why the Exact Cannon Variant Matters

GWM lists payload of up to 995kg across the current Cannon range, while the XSR is listed at up to 875kg. These are not universal figures for every variant. Cab-chassis and dual-cab models can differ, and the final available payload reduces as accessories and occupants are added.

For trades, touring or towing, calculate payload using the specification for the exact vehicle. If a canopy, drawer system, sliding tray, roof platform or other permanent equipment is fitted, its weight forms part of the vehicle's load.

4x4 System and Differential Locks

Current 4x4 Cannon models include a rear differential lock, giving additional traction when conditions become uneven or slippery. The Cannon XSR goes further with both front and rear differential locks, making it the most off-road-focused variant in the regular Cannon range.

Off-road capability still depends on tyres, ground conditions, driver technique, vehicle load and the exact variant. A locking differential can improve traction, but it does not replace appropriate tyres or sensible recovery planning.

Premium, Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR: What's the Difference?

GWM Cannon Premium

Premium is the entry point to the current Cannon range and uses the 2.0L turbo-diesel with an 8-speed automatic. It is rated to 3,200kg braked towing and is available in configurations aimed at both everyday and work use, including cab-chassis options.

GWM Cannon Lux

Lux moves to the newer 2.4L turbo-diesel and 9-speed automatic. It is part of the group rated to a maximum 3,500kg braked towing capacity and provides a step up in specification over Premium.

GWM Cannon Ultra

Ultra adds more comfort and technology equipment. GWM lists features such as heated and ventilated front seating on higher grades and a 12.3-inch infotainment display across the current range, with equipment varying by variant.

GWM Cannon Vanta

Vanta uses the same 2.4L/9-speed powertrain group and is differentiated largely by styling and equipment. Buyers should compare the exact specification rather than assuming mechanical differences based only on the grade name.

GWM Cannon XSR

XSR is the off-road-focused regular Cannon. It uses the 2.4L engine and adds a front differential lock in addition to the rear lock. Its payload is lower than the maximum quoted elsewhere in the range, so owners planning a heavily accessorised touring setup should account for that from the start.

GWM Cannon Safety and ANCAP Rating

ANCAP lists the current GWM Cannon with a five-star safety rating for applicable vehicles built from November 2024 onward. ANCAP states that the current rating applies to all relevant variants except XSR. Cab-chassis applicability should also be checked against the exact vehicle because GWM's own current model information excludes CC variants from its five-star claim.

Current Cannon safety equipment includes systems such as autonomous emergency braking, lane support and adaptive cruise control, with equipment varying by grade. The important point for used-vehicle buyers is that an older GWM Ute and a current Cannon are not necessarily covered by exactly the same ANCAP applicability statement.

GWM Cannon Dimensions and Tub Fitment

Current dual-cab Cannon dimensions vary slightly by variant. GWM's current brochure lists an example dual-cab configuration at approximately 5,416mm long, 1,947mm wide and 1,884mm high, with a 3,230mm wheelbase and a tray approximately 1,520mm by 1,520mm. Those figures should be treated as variant-specific rather than universal across every cab-chassis and XSR configuration.

This matters when buying tub accessories. A product should be matched using the build/model year, body configuration and existing factory equipment, not simply by searching for "GWM Cannon". Sports bars, tub rails, cab-chassis bodies and changes between model years can affect compatibility.

GWM Cannon vs Cannon Alpha

The GWM Cannon Alpha is not simply a higher trim level of the regular Cannon. It is a larger model with a different body, different drivetrain choices and different dimensions. That means regular Cannon tub accessories should not be assumed to fit the Cannon Alpha.

If you own or are considering the larger model, see our separate GWM Cannon Alpha Australia guide.

Accessories for the GWM Cannon

The regular Cannon can be set up for work, touring or everyday cargo use with accessories such as canopies, tonneau covers, roller shutters, tub mats, sliding trays, drawers and tailgate upgrades. The right combination depends on how much permanent weight you want to add and how often you need full access to the tub.

• Canopy: useful when enclosed, lockable storage and full-height cargo space are priorities.
• Roller shutter or hard cover: keeps a lower-profile tub while retaining quick access.
• Sliding tray: improves access to cargo at the front of a deep tub.
• Drawer system: suits organised storage where permanent weight and reduced vertical space are acceptable.
• Tub mat: protects the tub floor and helps reduce cargo movement.

Browse the current GWM Cannon accessories collection, or read our GWM Cannon & Cannon Alpha Accessories Guide for a broader overview. If tub coverage is your priority, our GWM Cannon Tonneau Cover Guide compares the main cover types.

What to Check Before Buying a GWM Cannon

• Engine and transmission: confirm whether the vehicle is the 2.0L/8-speed Premium or a 2.4L/9-speed variant.
• Towing: Premium is rated to 3,200kg braked; Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR are rated up to 3,500kg.
• Payload: check the exact variant and subtract permanent accessories, passengers and cargo.
• Body style: dual-cab ute and cab-chassis models require different accessory planning.
• Off-road equipment: all applicable 4x4 variants have a rear differential lock; XSR adds a front lock.
• ANCAP applicability: do not assume every XSR, cab-chassis or older GWM Ute has the same rating coverage as the current mainstream Cannon range.
• Accessory fitment: confirm model year, body and existing sports-bar or tub-rail configuration before ordering.

GWM regularly changes promotional pricing, so this guide deliberately avoids fixed drive-away prices. For current manufacturer pricing, model availability and specification updates, check GWM Australia's Cannon range.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine is in the 2026 GWM Cannon?

Premium variants use a 2.0L turbo-diesel with an 8-speed automatic. Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR use a 2.4L turbo-diesel producing 135kW and 480Nm with a 9-speed automatic.

How much can a GWM Cannon tow?

Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR are rated to a maximum 3,500kg braked towing capacity. Premium is rated to 3,200kg braked. Always check the exact vehicle's complete weight limits before towing.

What is the GWM Cannon payload?

GWM lists payload of up to 995kg in the regular Cannon range, while XSR is listed at up to 875kg. Payload differs by variant and is reduced by fitted accessories, occupants and cargo.

Does the GWM Cannon have a differential lock?

Applicable 4x4 Cannon models have a rear differential lock. XSR adds a front differential lock as well.

Is the GWM Cannon five-star ANCAP rated?

ANCAP applies a five-star rating to relevant current Cannon variants built from November 2024 onward, excluding XSR. Check the exact build and body configuration for rating applicability.

Is the GWM Cannon Alpha the same vehicle?

No. Cannon Alpha is a separate, larger model with different drivetrains and dimensions. Accessories should not be assumed to interchange between the regular Cannon and Cannon Alpha.

Do older GWM Cannon accessories fit the 2026 model?

Some may, but fitment should never be assumed from the Cannon name alone. Confirm the model year, body configuration, tub setup and existing factory equipment before ordering.

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Sources: Current range, engine, towing, payload and drivetrain information has been checked against GWM Australia's current Cannon model information and ute-range comparison. Safety-rating applicability has been checked against ANCAP's current GWM Cannon listing. Specifications can change, so confirm the exact vehicle before purchase, towing or modification.