New hatchback from FAW

In addition to its aggresive pricing the V2 comes with a two-year/40 000 kilometre service plan, three-year/100 000km factory warranty and one-year free roadside assistance and has the backing of the Imperial Group.

“We see this latest addition to the FAW range of passenger cars in South Africa as having strong appeal for first time buyers, students and those looking for an entry level model as a second car,” said Pedro Pereira, general manager of FAW cars and light commercials in SA.

The well-proportioned and neatly-styled V2 hatch is at the upper end of the B-segment in terms of its size with a spacious, five-seater interior and large luggage space – 320 litres – with the load versatility of split, fold-down rear seats.

There is a choice of five exterior colours – silver, white, red, blue and black – while the interior is tastefully trimmed in black and grey. Bumpers and door handles are colour coded and alloy wheels are standard, as is a chromed exhaust trim

The comprehensive range of standard convenience features includes air conditioning, power-operated windows on all four doors, a high end radio/CD audio system with MP3 compatibility, electrically-adjustable rear view mirrors which incorporate indicator repeaters, remote control central locking, remote fuel flap opener, four-way adjustable driver’s seat, dual glovebox compartments, storage space and cup holder in door panels and an interior reading light.

The V2 also has numerous safety features including driver and passenger air bags, anti-skid ABS brakes with electronic brake distribution, side impact bars, a safety cell bodyshell, environmentally-friendly and fire-retardant interior trim, headlamp levelling adjustment, high-mounted LED rear brake light, front and rear fog lamps.

The 1.3-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine complies with Euro IV emission standards and develops 67kW of power at 6 000r/min and 120N.m of torque at 4 400r/min with fuel economy on the combined cycle of 6.5l/100km. It drives the front wheels through a five-speed gearbox.

Suspension is independent on all four wheels for outstanding roadholding and handling. The double wishbone independent rear suspension on the FAW V2 is unusual in the world of B-segment cars these days as most manufacturers go for the cheaper torsion beam system.

The pre-launch FAW V2 underwent a six-month test programme in South Africa to ensure its suitability for local conditions and the people involved included a number of engineers from FAW in China.

The local person responsible for the test programme, the FAW passenger and LCV technical manager, Johan Ackerman, was delighted with the results and said no problems were experienced during a five-day trip of more than 5 000 kilometres.

This included a variety of road surfaces, mountain passes and sections on gravel roads.

Ackerman said he was particularly impressed by the roadholding and handling as well as ride comfort with a fully-laden car, and added that the V2 was stable at highway speeds.

The route went from Johannesburg to Upington and then on to Cape Town, with two days of sea level testing in the Western Cape before travelling back to Johannesburg.

Fuel consumption on the test route was very good at 6.1/l100 kilometres as there were four occupants in the car and they travelled between 115-120km/h when conditions permitted.

The tank range to an empty 37-litre tank was an impressive 562 kilometres.

“We currently have a national network of 22 dealers, with the latest opening up in Richards Bay, and the growing model line-up is resulting in increased interest in the FAW franchise,” said Pereira.