This goes on to show the Chinese-based international automotive giant, Great Wall Motors Company Limited, has been hard at work to up its reputation, internationally.
GWM Steed is popular with budget-conscious buyers. True.
“It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of many of the other bakkie competitors (the Navara, Amarok and Ranger, for instance). However many buyers don’t care. They want a bakkie that is cheap, and the Steed fits the bill,” once commented a buyer in the NW Province.
Besides improved drivability and comforts, GWM STEED bakkies, both the double and single cabs, now come with better warranties than ever before and the vehicles are lighter on fuel – in line with GWM’s goal to supply South African drivers with quality, affordable vehicles, which seamlessly utilise the latest technologies.
This make sense considering yet another fuel increase this week.
All models feature a heated rear window, power steering, leather upholstery, air-conditioning, electric windows and a radio/CD audio system (with USB support).
The entry level model is powered by GWM’s proven 2,2-litre petrol engine that develops 78 kW and 190 Nm of torque.
The cab is spacious and ergonomic with remote audio controls on the steering wheel.
Because South Africans use bakkies for business and active lifestyles as well as family vehicles afterwards, safety is a high priority.
GWM has equipped the Steed (Safety Version) models with a comprehensive safety package that includes dual front airbags and ABS with EBD.
Furthermore, it features fog lamps to boost visibility during poor weather conditions and adjustable safety belts. Rear door child locks are also standard in the Double Cab.
It rides well and handling at corners is cleanly perfect whilst delivering decent bump-soakability. It seems solidly built, and driving over rough gravel fails to expose any judders or rattles.
All GWM products are covered by a 5-year/100 000 km warranty, and has extended service intervals on all petrol vehicles to 15 000 km, whilst diesel vehicles are to be serviced every 10 000 km or annually.
| Model | Recommended Retail Price incl VAT |
| Steed 5 2.2 Mpi 4×2 Base F/L | From R179 900 |
| Steed 5 2.2 Mpi 4×2 SX F/L | From R204 900 |
| Steed 5 Double Cab 2,0 VGT 4×2 SX F/L | From R239 900 |
| Steed 5 Double Cab 2,0 VGT 4×4 SX F/L | From R269 900 |
Verdict
Performance 1-10 (4)
Diesel 1-10 (5)
Image (GWM-STEED Double Cab bakkie has a good story to tell).
