Is the GWM M4 facelift the cheapest compact SUV in South Africa?

The GWM M4 is the company’s first compact SUV, and it has found same favour among buyers in South Africa (and is sold in 11 countries) who were more used to the GWM Steed pick-ups and the bigger GWM Hover / H5 SUVs.

GWM M4 facelift

The GWM M4 has received an update, visually and spec-wise, qualifying this as the GWM M4 facelift.

An updated version of the GWM M4 arrives 2 years after it went into dealerships locally (first arrived early 2014 in South Africa, after it was shown at the preceding Johannesburg International Motor Show). 

The visual update sees changes made to black-framed headlamps, the addition of LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) as well as bumpers front and rear with new matt silver trim frame for that must-have SUV appearance.

The cheapest compact SUV for sale

The buying public gave this quick-to-market compact SUV / cross-over a look thanks to its pleasant appearance and great value – the lowest-priced in its segment, by a comfortable price-leading margin:  when launched in 2014 the GWM M4 arrived at R 189 999, so now, 2 years on and with all the inflation and exchange rate negative economic factors… the price is R 189 900.  Yes, this is no typo:  the price for a new GWM M4 is R 189 900.

By comparison, look at the cheapest SUVs of other brands:  the price of a new Renault Duster 1.6 Expression is R 222 900, and a new Ford EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente now starts at R 233 900.

Features list

As the cheapest new compact SUV on the market, the GWM M4 still has all the simple features to let it be both city car and semi off-roader, with ground clearance of 185mm, roof rails, friendly 1.5-litre engine, front-wheel drive and 5-speed manual.  ABS with EBD, dual airbags, child seat anchorages and safety belt unfastened warning form part of the safety kit included.  The GWM M4 gains Bluetooth phone connection and cruise control, both operated through steering-mounted switches.

A new GWM M4 is sold with a 5-year / 100 000 km warranty and 2-year AA roadside assistance, with an optional 5-year / 60 000 service plan.

Best value?

Is this the best value compact SUV?  Considering the price is the same as 2 years ago and it just received a facelit with extra equipment, while being R30k+ cheaper than its nearest rival, the GWM M4 facelift could very well be the best value.