Geely SA has put 'hiking boots' on its LC hatchback, introduced in South Africa in April 2011, by adding black plastic 'bush' trim, extra ground clearance, roof rails and some macho styling tweaks.
The LC Cross has a bolder grille than the smiling panda face of the original LC, with the increased ride height - up to 160mm - and the spare wheel mounted on the tailgate giving it a more purposeful look.
The hatch still opens upwards, however, with the spare wheel in place, so access to the cargo bay isn't compromised.
The Cross has the same engine as the base LC, a DOHC 1342cc normally-aspirated transverse four rated for 63kW at 6000rpm and 110Nm at 5200rpm, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.
STANDARD KIT
All LC Cross models come with 14” alloy rims sporting 175/65 radials, power steering, aircon, power windows front and rear, electric mirrors, rear window wipers and rear window demisters.
The entry-level GS and the mid-range GL each have a four-speaker radio/CD system while the GT has two additional tweeters. The GT model also comes with remote central locking and parking sensors.
Standard safety kit includes antilock braking, child safety locks and high-mounted stoplights. The mid-range GL has dual front airbags, while the range-topping GT has six.
PRICES
LC Cross GS - R91 990
LC Cross GL - R97 990
LC Cross GT - R104 990