GWM Cannon: The pick-up truck that does it all

If you want a vehicle that does it all, then a modern pick-up truck is for you.

The new generation models have truly evolved from the workhorses of before, as this new range of trucks combines space, legroom, performance, style, and technology combined with all-terrain capability and hauling capacity. All those and more are what GWM Philippines offers with the Cannon.

Yes, GWM Philippines has officially joined the truck wars with the entry of an exceptional model that has garnered lofty worldwide reviews as a bang-for-your-buck truck that does it all.

The Cannon midsize pickup came out in 2019 in different body styles and two powertrain options. GWM revealed several unique Cannons over the last four years, like a model designed for tea farms, another for carrying motorcycles, one with an all-alloy canopy, and even a Supercar Pickup Concept. These examples show what the Cannon can do for you, whether you are a businessman looking for a commercial workhorse or a truck enthusiast who wants a fancy pickup.

The core, however, is when it comes to 4-door double cab models, and GWM Philippines has three Cannon variants that fit that need: the Pilot, Lux, and SLux. These variants offer a wide range of features that will surely hit the sweet spot, whatever your need, preference, or budget.

Being the gateway nameplate for GWM, the Pilot already has modern features like an electronically adjustable driver’s seat, a nine-inch touchscreen (with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth) so you can operate your mobile device hands-free, plus sensors and a reverse camera to make parking easier. These features are available in 4x4 and 4x2 layouts.

One variant up is the Lux. Whether the 4x2 or the 4x4, buyers get additional creature comforts like LED lighting, leather seats, automatic climate control with rear A/C vents keeping all passengers cool during the drive, more speakers for better audio quality, and cruise control for ease of use on the highway.

The top-of-the-line trim is the SLux. This baby has all that you need - and then some. On top of what the Pilot and the Lux have, it gets daytime running lamps for better visibility, front/rear fog lamps, electronically adjustable leather front seats for a better fit, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster for easier access to vehicle information, and a full suite of safety features for higher passenger protection.

All Cannons have a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine sending 161 HP and 400 Nm of torque to the wheels. The Pilots have a six-speed manual transmission, while the Lux and SLux use an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Another thing customers will love is the fact that it has a standard set of active safety features, some of which you will not get from entry-level models from other brands. You will not find a Cannon that does not have Hill Descent Control and Hill-Start Assist (for your mini off-road adventures) or a tire pressure monitoring system, among others.

But if you get the SLux, you receive the added protection of an advanced driver-assist system that acts like another set of eyes keeping you safe on the road. The list of features is long and dull, like reading a spec sheet. The main thing to remember is that it will help prevent or minimize impact during a collision, automatically adjust speed and distance from other vehicles while in cruise control, keep you safely in your lane, alert you in case of speeding, and even recognize traffic signs for you.

Size-wise, the Cannon is the longest pickup truck in the market and possesses one of the largest cargo beds in the segment. So, it has the looks to back up the stats, which will undoubtedly create quite an impression for onlookers and users.

GWM Philippines has a real contender in its stable. Its size gives it a commanding presence, the capacity to take in more payload than its competitors, offers creature comforts like an SUV, and has outstanding safety features. If that is the kind of truck you are looking for, then the Cannon is your next pickup.