GWM Steed is more than just a car

When I bumped into her I had just finished test driving the GWM Steed double cab, so naturally our discussions centred on this vehicle and although I have not seen her since then I am sure she is riding around in this vehicle.

The GWM Steed is more of your Isuzu under the hood which makes it a joy to drive.
When I drove this car I enjoyed the sound and performance of the diesel engine when I hit the highway with one window open.

After closing the windows, though I could still hear the humming of the engine, the drive is not as bumpy as that of other bakkies.
The only thing I dislike about bakkies is the suspension. A leaf suspension takes away the comfort in a bakkie and makes it a tiring ride especially if you do so much city driving without any loads.

Loading it with stuff balances it out though. Even though the GWM brand has gotten a bit of bashing over the years, in Southern Africa, it is fast claiming its space in the bakkie market.

After being introduced a few years ago, it has become very favourable because of its pricing and reliability.
When I went to the GWM showroom at the Show-grounds I expected to encounter the same issues that are synonymous with bakkies, a stiff clutch and less than comfortable ride.

I was pleasantly surprised because the Steed was not bad at all. The clutch was relatively flexible and the drive was quite smooth.
It comes standard with your basic features like the radio and ABS. It is versatile.

Most people or businesses who invest in this vehicle are into serious business.
It can ferry five adults together with a fair amount of goods in the back and it can tow a one-tonne load with ease.

When I drove it we went a few kilometres out of town to test its off-road capabilities and boy was I shocked!
Most 4x4s don’t handle dirt roads well and with some brands you even question why they say it is a 4×4.

I was happy about its handling of off-road conditions. The only thing I will advise anyone buying one is that this is not a 4×4 adventure vehicle, so stay away from extreme off-road conditions.

Fuel economy is 10 litres per 100km. I was a bit disappointed when it came to the torque. I would have loved a bit more.
Overall, this is a perfect vehicle for the price. I can hear all of you say what about the safety features? The most important safety feature is your brain. Use your brain and you will not need anything else.

It does come with the basic ones like your ABS brakes, central locking, etc, but we all know that if you are a good driver you always make your fellow motorists and yourself safe.

For pricing and more information, please contact GWM showroom at the Exhibition Park in Harare.
Till next week, be safe.

Fact D. Jeke is a motoring enthusiast, she can be contacted via email on [email protected] or torque with Fact Jeke on Facebook.