GWM's Steed, which is widely regarded as the best-quality Chinese bakkie on the market, has just been given a visual makeover, new engine and revised specification - at least in double cab form.
Gone is that strange frontal design copied from the 2002 VW Magellan concept, replaced by a more conventional look provided by new headlights, grille and bumper.
GWM refers to this facelifted model as the Steed 5 Double Cab range - the previous range continues in workhorse form.
Beneath the skin, a new 2.5 TCI turbodiesel engine replaces the previous Isuzu-based 2.8. The new mill is good for 80kW at 3000rpm and 300Nm between 1800 and 2600rpm.
GWM continues to offer the existing 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which produces 100kW at 5200rpm and 200Nm at 4000rpm. Both engines are available in 4x2 and 4x4 format and all models have a 70-litre fuel tank.
Standard features across the range include air conditioning, power steering, a CD/MP3 player with steering wheel controls, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking, 16-inch alloy wheels, dual front airbags and ABS brakes.
As for the loadability aspect, the Steed comes to the party with a double insulated load bin.
PRICES:
PETROL:
2.4 4x2 Luxury - R184 990
2.4 4x4 Luxury - R199 990
DIESEL:
2.5 TCI 4x2 Luxury - R199 990
2.5 TCI 4x4 Luxury - R217 990
Prices include a three-year /100 000km warranty and two years of roadside assistance.