China's budget Gonow bakkies hit SA

These pick-ups will be followed in October this year by three diesel-engined derivatives.

The 6-model range, which has over the last four years been developed for South African conditions, will enter the market at R94 990 for the entry level single-cab, up to R134 990 for the flagship model.

The second body style is a standard length double-cab with a standard size load box. Next in line is an extended double-cab version with a much longer load box.

All models are powered by a fuel-injected 2.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 76 kW of power between 4 200 and 4 600 r/min. Torque is 193 Nm available between 2 000 to 2 600 r/min.

All X-Space models launched are 4x2 rear-wheel drive units with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

The brakes, steering and suspension are identical in all models - dual-circuit vacuum assisted hydraulic brakes with load sensing front discs and drums at the rear; power assisted hydraulic rack and pinion steering; independent front suspension with torsion bar spring and leaf springs at the rear.

Body styles

The single-cab entry level X-Space has the biggest load box of the three derivatives, measuring 2 385x1 470x440 mm on the inside. This translates to a loading capacity of 1 025kg, making it a full 1-ton payload.

In standard guise the single-cab equipment includes a radio/tape, remote central locking, 6-stud alloy wheels with 215/75R15 rubber, air-conditioning, power steering, side protection beadings, PVC floor covering, adjustable steering wheel, head rests, fog lamps, digital odometer, sun visor mirrors and a leather gear knob.

The luxury version has additional features including a radio/CD, electric windows and side mirrors, leather seats, colour coded rear bumper and a leather-clad steering wheel.

Both double-cabs have a loading capacity of 1 025 kg - the same as that of the single-cab - with the load box on the standard double-can measuring 1 480x1 470x440mm.

The full vehicle length of the double-cab is identical to that of the single-cab and comes in at 5 180 mm.

More space

Inside the double-cab versions have the same standard equipment as that of the single-cab versions, with aluminium side steps added to the bigger passenger cabin versions (standard and extended double-cab).

The two double-cab bakkies have identical 5-seater passenger cabins in standard and luxury equipment levels.

The difference as far as the extended wheel-base is concerned, comes with the size of the 1-ton load box.

The X-Space double-cab LWB comes with a 1 835x1 470x440 mm load box, extending the overall vehicle length to 5 535 mm. The much longer load box allows for the safe and easy transport of bulkier loads weighing it at no more than 1 025 kg.

The remainder of the standard equipment is identical for the standard and luxury double-cab versions.

Pricing