Donna Collins
HOT newcomer, the GWM C50 turbo is a traffic stopper and is the first stylish and well-priced four-door sedan from the GWM stable that is rearing to go, as Woema found out with the latest Pupkewitz GWM release test drive, that has left a trail of people wanting to know more.
The C50, which according GWM, is the most sophisticated passenger vehicle introduced by GWM Southern Africa to date, has ticked all the boxes with style, comfort and superb fuel economy, performance and impressive pricing.
In keeping with the trend towards engine downsizing in the passenger car market, the GWM C50 is powered by a sprightly 1.5 turbo petrol engine, with 93kW of power at 5 600 rpm on tap. The C50 is a charming travelling companion which behaves cordially in town, and performs like stallion on the open roads. When it comes to putting your foot down, the GWM C50 jumps into action with 188 Nm of torque over a rev range from 2 000 to 4 500 rpm.
A five speed transmission with front wheel drive ensures dynamic handling you can bank on, offering the driver confidence when over taking on long stretches. Safety is not compromised with the C50, which offers safety systems like ABS, with EBD, dual front airbags, adjustable safety belts, child seat mountings and rear door child locks, and carries a full five-star C-NCAP rating.
The GWM C50 offers a few surprises like the boot space which can be extended by releasing two flaps and voila, the 60/40 rear seats fold down to accommodate luggage galore. Not to mention all the little nooks and crannies inside the vehicle such as cup holders, storage box in the central armrest and sunglass holder to mention some.
The C50 also brags many features that will turn you into its number one fan. Over and above the essential must haves like air-conditioning, power steering and electric windows, it also offers you other creature comforts like a six-way adjustable driver’s seat, height adjustable headlamps, remote audio controls and cruise control.
An alarm and immobiliser and remote central locking ensures that your GWM C50 stays parked where you left it, and a lights-on warning helps avoid flat batteries. As an added safety feature, you’ll find a full sized spare wheel under the boot floor, so that you can be on your merry way as soon as possible in the event of a flat.
GWM’s first four sedan is available in the Luxury which priced at N$245 000, with the top of the range Elite inclusive of Park Assist, Cruise Control and Blue tooth goes for N$262 000.
The GWM C50 which is now available at Pupkewitz GWM is inclusive of a 5-year/100 000 km warranty, and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan.