The LC Cross followed the local launch of the popular LC, which made its South African debut in April 2011. It followed in the tracks of the cost-effective LC with three specification levels, added equipment, a bigger ground clearance and a bold new look.
The three original models remain – GS, GL and GT in both manual and auto guise – but the new GX2 1.5 offers even better performance and increased value for money.
The new model is driven by a powerful 1.5 litre engine which delivers 20 percent more power and 25 percent more torque than the 1.3 litre version of the current models. The bigger four-cylinder features electronic fuel injection as well as 16 valves activated by a double overhead camshaft (DOHC), and delivers 75 kW at 5 800 rpm with 136 Nm of torque which is available from 2 800 – 3 400 rpm to produce a claimed fuel consumption figure of 7.3 litre/ 100km with 169g/km of emissions.
As with the rest of the raGeely LC range, the latest model boasts a long list of useful standard equipment, including ABS brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and airbags, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking, audio system, power steering and air conditioning as standard.
The new GX2 boasts the same slightly increased ride height of 160mm which gives it a purposeful look, which is further enhanced by the full-size spare wheel mounted on the rear hatch. The GX2 comes with 14 inch mag wheels, including the spare, and is shod with 175/65R14 tyres.
In spite of the recent fluctuations in the exchange rate, Geely SA confidently refers to their suggested retail prices as “price challenges”. This bold approach ties in with the persona of the upgraded GX2, which is available at a suggested retail price of R109 990.
The new range also includes a variety of accessories which can be ordered with the vehicle or for after-sales fitment. These include leather upholstery, a spare wheel cover and stone guard protection.
The GX2 comes with two frontal airbags and three-point shoulder harnesses as standard, with pre-tensioners for the front seats for additional protection.
All LC Cross models come with an impressive array of standard equipment, including power steering and air conditioning across the range. The new GX2 features an FM/AM radio / front loading CD with four speakers and two additional tweeters, as well as a USB socket along with power windows front and rear, electric door mirrors, rear window wiper and demister, as well as a cigarette lighter and removable ash tray.
The new model is covered by Geely’s 36-month or 100 000 kilometre factory mechanical warranty, which includes AA Roadside Assistance.
