China may not be a big market for lifestyle pick-up trucks, but that has not stopped Great Wall Motors (GWM) from adding more firepower into their Pao line-up of pick-up trucks.

Yes, this chunky pick-up truck is literally called Huo Pao (火炮).

Putting aside its name, this GWM pick-up truck made its debut at the 2021 Chongqing Motor Show over the weekend and it is priced at CNY 179,800 (~RM 115k).

Unlike the Baja Snake-branded Pao, this variant literally packs more firepower under the hood. Its turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine does 217 PS and 380 Nm – considerably more than its regular siblings. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic that is hooked up to a BorgWarner 4WD system that deploys power to all four wheels.

Other model-specific enhancement includes nitrogen-filled off-road shock absorbers, 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich AllTerrain KO2 rubbers, front winch, and an air snorkel.

The Huo Pao is also the only 2-door pick-up truck offered by GWM. Compared to the regular Pao and its 3,230-mm long wheelbase, this one has a 2,745-mm long wheelbase.

Also Read: GWM Pao is in Malaysia and it wants to shift your attention from the Hilux

Safety-wise, it gets dual airbags, stability control, and emergency stop signal (ESS). Unfortunately, no ADAS or side / curtain airbags are available.

Also Read: Watch out Ford Ranger Raptor, this Shelby-tuned GWM Pao Baja Snake is coming after you

Closer to this region, the regular GWM Pao is earmarked for Thailand. The upcoming GWM Pao will join the Haval H6 and Haval First Love in GWM’s product offense in this region.

Also Read: Move over, Geely: GWM is set to be SEA's most influential Chinese carmaker, here's why