To regular readers of CAR and CARmag.co.za, the GWM C10 should be quite a familiar sight. We published an early road test of the new model in the May 2012 issue and recently put up a special report video. At the time of our road test we commented favourably about the product in most regards. We did however criticise a few aspects, most notably the areas of braking performance and some aspects of the trim quality.
At the time of that road test the C10 was still awaiting its local introduction and that day has arrived. At a grand unveiling event held in the Turbine Hall in Johannesburg’s trendy Newtown Precinct the covers were peeled back and local press and gathered guests were introduced to the brand’s all-new product. The Chinese-made newcomer features a distinctive V-shaped chrome grille. Its fifteen-inch alloys contribute to a planted stance and the rear end has sporty touches such as an integrated exhaust tip and a rear spoiler with a high-mounted brake light.
The C10 bolsters the passenger vehicle line-up in a GWM range that still consists mainly of pick-up and SUV products. There is only one C10 model on offer — a 1,5-litre petrol that produces 77 kW and 138 N.m of torque and is mated with a five-speed manual gearbox. The suspension has been tuned for ride comfort and in the interests of occupant safety, dual front airbags and ABS with EBD are fitted.
At the launch GWM SA chairman Tony Pinfold, said that while GWM are not keen to pigeonhole the C10 into a particular segment he was aiming for sales of approximately 200 units per month. From the comfort of the C10’s height-adjustable driver’s seat, there are a multitude of features on offer. These include electric windows, a multi-function steering wheel, air-conditioning as well as a radio/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary and USB inputs.
At a launch price of R134 900 the C10 goes up against some stiff competition including several offerings from GM, VW and Toyota not to mention the great small cars on offer from the importers of Korean brands. Having said that, the C10’s standard specification list is quite comprehensive: it includes a height-adjustable driver’s seat, electric windows, a multi-function steering wheel, air-conditioning as well as a radio/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary and USB inputs, to name but a few features.
The C10 1,5 VVT is available from any of the 71 GWM dealers nationwide. Its list price incorporates GWM’s standard three-years or 100 000 km warranty as well as a two-year 24-hour roadside assist service.
Read the road test of the C10 1,5 VVT as published in the May 2012 issue of CAR