The perfect pickup for harsh conditions

Now, with the introduction of a restructured Steed line-up that is even more in tune with South African requirements, the company is bullish about its growth prospects in what are two of South Africa’s largest-volume market segments.

“The realigned Steed line-up is the result of close cooperation between GWM South Africa and Great Wall Motors in China,” says Hannes Oosthuizen, Brand Manager of GWM SA.

“From the fitment of a rear differential lock as standard on some models, to the development of a new, more affordable turbodiesel engine for the local market, the revised line-up shows that GWM South Africa listens to its customers.”

The new Steed line-up consists of three individual models; the trusty Steed 5 which is already a favourite among South Africans, and which continues in Single- and Double-Cab forms; the Steed 5E, to be offered as a Double-Cab only and; the flagship Steed 6 leisure Double-Cab.

These three individual models target different customers:

Steed 5: To be offered in Single- and Double-Cab form, and priced from
R154 900 – R230 000. Steed 5 Single-Cabs primarily target customers looking for a working vehicle, while the double-cab derivative offers a measure of lifestyle appeal at a very attractive price.

Steed 5E: Double-cab only, and priced from just under R230 000 – R280 000. The 5E is based on the Steed 5, but significant changes to its interior and particularly in the area of NVH control (noise, vibration, harshness) make it a more refined option that will also appeal as a family do-all.

Steed 6: Leisure Double-Cab only.
Priced from just below R300 000 –
R350 000. Targets customers for whom an upmarket Double-Cab is a leisure tool and status symbol, and who demand modern conveniences and the latest safety features.

GWM STEED 5: With its blend of load-carrying ability, comfortable cabins and high-value pricing, the GWM Steed 5 has been a big success for the brand in South Africa. “We’re delighted to have the Steed 5 continue in South Africa as it will again perform a vital role in the local line-up,” explains Oosthuizen.
The existing Single-Cab 2,2-litre MPI continues as a comfort-oriented workhorse (audio system, air-conditioning and power steering as standard), and the top-selling Double-Cab, also driven by the proven 2,2-litre petrol engine, remains as one of the most affordable vehicles of its type in the local market, priced at
R179 900.
A new engine is a close relative of the more powerful VGT, but employs a simpler waste-gate turbo as well as a Bosch control system (as opposed to Delphi on the VGT). The WGT engine delivers 78kW@4000r/min and 225Nm. It is mated with a five-speed manual transmission and the claimed fuel consumption figure is
8,1 L/100km (single-cab). “The engine has been extensively tested in South Africa and we have no doubts that the market will appreciate its blend of economy and driveability,” says Oosthuizen.

GWM STEED 5E: Moving upmarket, the Steed 5E is set to become a mainstay of the GWM line-up in South Africa. “The Steed 5E’s refinements go beyond the very obvious cosmetic changes – in fact, it drives like an all-new product!” says Oosthuizen.
The engine line-up consists of the proven 2,4-litre petrol (46G69) unit that develops 93kW and 200Nm of torque, and the brand’s further-refined 2,0-litre VGT turbodiesel (105kW and 305Nm). A four-wheel drive version of the 2,0-litre VGT Xscape will join the local line-up shortly.

GWM STEED 6: The Steed 6 is effectively GWM’s new flagship and is positioned as an upmarket leisure vehicle. “Given its cabin comforts, its size and not to mention its very bold styling, the Steed 6 will force the public to take notice,” Oosthuizen explains. “You simply can’t miss it, or ignore it.”
As double-cabs that target leisure- or family oriented customers increasingly do, the Steed 6 prioritises cabin space, creature comforts, design appeal and safety to offer a very attractive multi-purpose solution to most families’ motoring needs. But undoubtedly its unique design will be a major draw card.

“We’re confident that the Steed 6’s cabin can stand comparison with the best pickup offerings from Germany and Japan,” Oosthuizen boldly states. The facia design is very Germanic, with two deep-set analogue instrumentation gauges flanking a comprehensive trip computer. Unique to this segment is the leather-covering of the instrumentation binnacle, a detail touch that reinforces the Steed 6’s upmarket intentions. Other examples of this premium focus include a leather-wrapped, four-spoke multi-function steering wheel and piano-black trim on the facia.

At launch, both Steed 6 derivatives are powered by the brand’s proven 2,0-litre VGT engine that delivers 105kW and 305Nm of torque through a six-speed manual transmission. The line-up will be further expanded in 2015 with the addition of 4×4 derivatives.