GWM or rather Great Wall Motors first made its local appearance in 2007 and has since expanded its dealership network throughout South Africa alongside the Haval brand. While the crossover and SUVs are sold under the Haval banner, workhorse bakkies and even the more premium yet still utilitarian P-Series fall within the GWM brand.
As can be seen in the quick growth in the sales figures of the GWM P-Series bakkie, it has become a popular choice amongst discerning buyers, however, what if you are in the market for an affordable workhorse. GWM also offer customers a variety of budget-friendly options and even though they might not provide the same levels of comfort and technology as the P-Series, they will get the job done.
Related: Read the review of the 2020 model-year GWM P-Series here
The cheapest GWM
At the time of writing this article, the most affordable GWM product is the GWM Steed 5 2.2MPi Workhorse which retails for R 215 900. The single-cab model comes fitted with a 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine capable of 73 kW and 180 Nm of torque. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission.
In terms of comfort items, occupants can expect an air conditioning unit and a radio with USB input, however, this is as far as amenities go. Safety equipment is also omitted with the model offering no airbags nor ABS braking or emergency brakeforce distribution. To gain access to the front driver and passenger airbags, ABS brakes and emergency brakeforce distribution, customers will have to choose the GWM Steed 5 2.2MPi double cab.
The double-cab model which retails for R 20 000 more than the Workhorse, also retains electric windows for the front occupants and three more seats, albeit with a smaller loading bay. However, the addition of standard safety equipment makes it the obvious choice between the two.
