Chinese automotive company FAW, which has made a name for itself in the local truck market, is moving into the light commercial and passenger vehicle segments with its Sirius panel van and people carrier models.
The 7-seater people carrier and its panel van stable mate are both powered by a 1,3-litre petrol engine developing 67 kW and 120 N.m of torque while returning an average fuel consumption figure of 7,4 L/100 km. This unit is mated with a five-speed manual gearbox that sends drive to the rear wheels. A 1,5-litre unit will be offered at a later stage.
Both variants are suspended on Macpherson struts up front and a solid rear axle with coil-sprung multilink suspension. The 7-seater people carrier has a load capacity of 525 kg and the panel van 545 kg. In terms of unbraked trailer ratings the people carrier can tow 600 kg and the panel van 450 kg.
Among the people carrier’s standard fitment items are air-conditioning, alloy wheels, dual airbags, ABS brakes, electric windows, a radio/CD/MP3 audio system with USB port, front and rear foglamps, remote keyless entry with alarm/immobilser and headlamp levelling.
The Sirius models will be followed by the V2 compact hatchback (1,3- and 1,5-litre models) in early 2013 and a B-segment saloon later that year.
FAW will establish a manufacturing facility in PE’s Coega Industrial Development Zone as part of an R600 million local investment. This plant will be capable of producing 5 000 truck annually. LCV and passenger vehicle production will also take place at this plant at a later date.
Both Sirius models will be distributed via 13 of the existing AMH multi-franchise dealerships with a planned network of 22 dealers nationwide.
Pricing:
Sirius 7-seater people carrier R159 995
Sirius panel van R149 995
Both models are covered by a 3 year/100 000km factory warranty, one year roadside assistance and a 4 year/60 000km service plan.
