The new GWM P Series bakkie range is set to launch in South Africa early in December 2020 and we’ve discovered that two distinct styles of the double-cab body shape are set to be offered.
The Chinese firm’s local arm earlier confirmed the fresh-faced line-up would comprise as many as 16 derivatives at launch, ranging from a single-cab base variant in 4×2 guise with a manual gearbox to a double-cab 4×4 model.
Our latest information suggests there will be four single-cab variants, covering two specification levels and offered in either 4×2 or 4×4 guise. From what we understand, all variants across the range will feature GWM’s 2,0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, delivering 120 kW and 400 N.m.
Perhaps more interestingly, however, we now know there will be as many as eight “commercial-spec” double-cab derivatives, offered in 4×2 or 4×4 form with either a manual or an automatic transmission.
Furthermore, we’ve learned the local range will be topped by four “passenger-spec” double-cab derivatives, with the choice of 4×2 or 4×4 configurations as well as two trim levels. Each of the four, however, will ship standard with an eight-speed automatic cog-swapper from ZF.
As you can tell from the images above, the two double-cab styles will be set apart by distinct designs for items such as the grille, front bumper, headlamps and wheels. It’s not yet clear exactly how the two styles will differ inside.
Still, we also know flagship double-cab models will feature swathes of leather inside plus items such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors (fore and aft), a reversing camera and up to seven airbags. GWM furthermore says 4×4 derivatives will feature an “intelligent” two-speed torque-on-demand four-wheel-drive system and differential locks as standard.
As a reminder, the new bakkie was revealed back in April 2019, with the company saying it would “compete head-on” with big-sellers such as the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. While the new bakkie will be badged as the “Poer” in most international markets, it will retain the “P Series” moniker here in South Africa (with GWM SA noting “Poer” might not be the best option in a country blessed with a “keenly sharp sense of humour”).
Expect pricing and detailed specifications to be released in the coming days…
