GWM H6 – 1,5-litre turbopetrol now available
GWM South African has added a powerful, yet frugal, 1,5-litre turbopetrol version of the H6 SUV to its local line-up. At the same time, the company has also announced longer warranties for both H6 models as well as a standard 5 years/60 000 km service plan.
The GWM H6 Costs between R309 000.00 for the H6 1.5T and H6 2.0 TCI about R369 000.00 depending on the configuration of the car.
Perfectly aligned with the current trend of engine downsizing, the company’s new GW4G15B powerplant delivers the performance of a larger, naturally aspirated engine, but without the accompanying fuel consumption penalty. The engine delivers 105 kW at 5 600 rpm and 210 Nm of torque from 2 200 to 4 500 rpm. Power goes to the front wheels via a slick six-speed manual transmission. With a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of only 8,5 litres/100 km, the H6 1,5T rates as one of the most economical vehicles in its segment.
Priced at a very competitive R309 999, the H6 1,5T features a very comprehensive standard specification sheet (see below), and GWM SA has also used the opportunity to further improve the value offered by the H6 line-up by increasing the warranty period on both models from 3 years/100 000 km to 5 years/100 000 km and by adding a standard service plan of 5 years/60 000 km.
“Given the local popularity of compact SUVs at around the R300 000 mark, the arrival of the H6 1,5T is of big importance to GWM South Africa,” says Warren Olsen, COO of GWM SA. “It competes in a fiercely competitive segment, but boasts a number of features that are not generally offered by its same-price rivals. We are confident that its combination of spaciousness, premium features and economy will appeal widely,” Olsen concludes.
Exterior design
With its smooth contours, chiselled flanks and exquisite detailing, the H6 provides a distinctive and upmarket new alternative in the fiercely contested compact SUV/crossover segment. The H6 1,5T shares the flagship 2,0 TCI’s premium trim, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, full colour-coding with chrome detailing, roof rails, dailight running lamps and privacy glass. The 1,5T uniquely boasts keyless access and start, too.
Under its elegant bodywork the H6 features an all-new unibody platform that ensures superb rigidity and low levels of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness). Suspension is via MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear. The H6’s underpinnings have been tuned to deliver maximum occupant comfort. With a ground clearance of 180 mm when fully laden, the H6 can also confidently traverse rougher roads and those middelmannetjies so typical of South African adventures.
Comfort and Entertainment
The H6 measures 4 640 mm in length and rides on a 2 680 mm wheelbase. These generous dimensions endow the H6 with a very spacious cabin, as well as luggage area. “Closer inspection of the H6’s measurements reveals that it actually fits into a segment between so-called compact crossovers, as typified by the Hyundai ix35, Kia Sportage and others, and larger offerings such as the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento,” says Brand Manager, Hannes Oosthuizen. “Consequently it offers unrivalled spaciousness in its segment.”
The driver’s seat features manual height adjustment, while the rear bench boasts a reclining backrest. The rear seats are split 60:40 and can tumble forward to transform the already spacious boot into a truly cavernous utility area. The boot itself features a handy secondary shelf (removable) to help organise luggage. A full-size spare wheel is located underneath the boot floor.
From the driver’s seat, the emphasis on maximum ergonomic efficiency is obvious. The leather-trimmed steering wheel is adjustable for both rake and reach, the facia-mounted gearlever falls easily to hand and there are fold-out armrests for both front seats. The H6’s interior is finished in upmarket black, with satin silver accents further contributing to the sophisticated ambience. Leather and soft-touch surfaces also appear on the doors.
The crowning jewel of the H6’s standard features list is its comprehensive info-tainment system. A full-colour touch-screen system is mounted in the centre of the facia within easy reach, and features radio/CD/DVD/MP3 playback. It is further supported by a mini-SD slot (below the screen), and USB and auxiliary ports mounted in the storage box between the seats. The system features Bluetooth integration, and can be remotely controlled via buttons mounted on the steering wheel. When reverse gear is selected, the screen displays a feed from the rear-mounted camera, aiding in parking manoeuvres. An audible warning system is also activated when reversing.
Other standard features include climate control, power steering, cruise control, electric windows all-round, electric mirror adjustment, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights with manual levelling, among others.
Safety and Security
The H6’s high-strength body has been designed to meet global safety requirements. The H6 achieved a maximum five-star rating in China’s stringent C-NCAP crash testing regime. South African vehicles feature dual front SRS airbags, disc brakes all-round, ABS with EBD (electronic brake force distribution) and BAS (brake assist). Isofix child seat mounts provide the safest possible anchorage points for child seats. Tyre pressure monitors are also standard and the rear park sensors (with camera view) limit the chances of parking scrapes.
Security is provided by a standard alarm and immobiliser, with the further convenience of remote central locking (in addition to keyless access).
Model line-up and Pricing
The H6 1,5T is available through GWM’s extensive dealership network, currently boasting more than 70 outlets and service centres.
H6 2,0 TCI 4×2 manual R369 999*
H6 1,5T 4×2 manual R309 999*
Both H6 models are backed by GWM’s comprehensive 5 year/100 000 km warranty and come with a 5-years/60 000 km service plan as well as 2-years AA roadside assistance.
The GWM story
Great Wall Motors started production in Baoding, China in 1984. Just like its namesake, the famous landmark, Great Wall Motors is a well-known name in China. Its pick-ups and SUVs have been best sellers in China for decades, and today the brand is going places globally.
GWM South Africa opened its doors in March 2007, sharing the same commitment to providing every South African with quality vehicles they can trust, afford and LOVE. To keep GWM vehicles as good as new and owners as excited about the brand as the day they drove their GWM off the showroom floor, 76 dealers nationwide provide friendly and professional after-sales service.
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• Please note that prices and specifications are subject to change without prior notice. Prices include VAT and environmental levy.
