It's almost time for Fieldays.

As always, the Waikato celebration of all things outdoor and rural is also New Zealand's de facto auto expo, with most manufacturers planning big displays and preparing 'Fielday special' marketing campaigns.

GWM New Zealand has gone a step further and is gearing up for Fieldays with the launch of a limited edition version of its Cannon, the offroad-inspired XSR Limited Edition.

Based on the regular - and quite popular - Cannon, the XSR is aimed at Kiwi buyers wanting more rugged styling and enhanced capability and has a more off-road-focused spec than the model it is based on.

Key additions include an electronic front differential lock, front and rear metal bars, metal side steps, a high-level air intake, unique XSR grille, black wheelarch guards and a black sports bar. It rides on 18-inch black-coloured alloy wheels and Cooper all-terrain tyres.

The XSR uses the same engine as the regular Cannon: a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 135kW and 480Nm. The engine drives through GWM's self-developed 9-speed automatic transmission which has additional terrain drive modes that further enhance its off-road credentials.

The entry-level Cannon Lux is $40,990; the Ultra is $43,990. The 50-off Cannon XSR is priced at $52,490.

The XSR gets GWM’s full ownership package, which includes a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and five years of 24/7 roadside assistance.