The Great Wall Steed: An Affordable 4x4 Truck

Having been in existence for over 35 years, Great Wall Motors know a thing or two about producing automobiles. The manufacturer's range of Steed pick-up trucks have gained a glowing reputation and over 700,000 of them have been sold worldwide.

Great Wall prides itself on building high quality and reliable vehicles, which is reflected in its six year warranty promise, yet the Steed is one of the most affordable pick-up trucks on the market today.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, there were 285,343 new van and truck registrations in 2012, highlighting the demand for commercial vehicles. However, in a difficult and unpredictable economy, finding the right product at a reasonable price is increasingly difficult.

The affordable range of Great Wall 4x4 trucks not only gives the commercial driver plenty of room for materials and impressive performance figures, it also features several qualities that standard vans and trucks do not provide. 

Performance

Every model is powered by a direction injection 2.0-litre turbo charged diesel engine with 6-speed manual transmission. Despite its size and powerful engine, the Steed is extremely economical, with a 70-litre fuel tank returning 34 MPG on a combined cycle.

As you would expect, the Steed effortlessly glides over any bumps on the road, however it also deals with harsh terrain and loose surfaces. Its electric 'shift on the move' selection, between 2WD and 4WD, enables a quick response to ever-changing tough conditions.

In addition to a 2.5 towing capacity, each and every Steed has a payload of 1,050kg, even when a hardtop is fitted to the rear.

Equipment

Features that make the interior a welcoming environment include air conditioning, individually heated front seats, leather upholstery and full electric windows.

In-car entertainment hasn’t been forgotten about either, with Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone connectivity and steering wheel audio controls for an Alpine CD radio with USB input.

On the safety side of things, every Steed is fitted with driver and passenger airbags, while security is catered for, thanks to a Thatcham Category One alarm and immobiliser with keyless entry.

Models

The Steed S base model costs £13,998 excluding VAT and features all of the aforementioned details as standard. What's more, at insurance group 7A, running costs are also extremely low.

The Steed Chrome is an even more aesthetically pleasing variant, with chrome side and sports bars, fog lamp surrounds and a rear lamp finisher. Other additions include privacy glass and door entry guards.

Next in the range is the Steed Tracker, which has been designed with rough and ready conditions in mind. This particular model's off-road capacity is boosted by General Grabber AT tyres, front and rear mud flaps, a STD 12N audible monitor kit, rubber mat set and over rail bed liner.

The Steed SE, which is just £2,000 more than the standard S, has even more high-end features for a modest price. Rear parking sensors, chrome side bars and trim, daytime running lights as well as a body coloured hard-top canopy, with rear spoiler and roof rails, make this top-of-the-range model an incredibly desirable pick-up.

Whichever Great Wall Steed suits your individual needs, you will be guaranteed a top quality and reliable commercial vehicle with a surplus of luxurious features at an affordable price.