WITH the introduction of the upmarket C50, GWM South Africa enters the C-segment four-door sedan market for the first time. The newcomer is also one of GWM’s most sophisticated passenger vehicles to date and boasts the brand’s new 1,5-litre turbo petrol engine.
The C50 looks set to further expand GWM’s presence in the South African passenger car market, following the recent successful introduction of the C20R crossover hatchback. With its distinctive face, chrome detailing, smart multi-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels and chrome-tipped twin exhaust outlets, the C50 is a striking newcomer in a traditionally conservative market segment.
It features a long wheelbase (2 700mm) and wide front and rear tracks, lending it not only a purposeful stance, but also elegantly stretched proportions. The long wheelbase also has practical purpose, as it improves interior space and ride comfort.
The C50 is offered in South Africa in Luxury and Elite trim levels, and in a choice of five colours namely Succint White, Elegant Silver, Modern Grey, Jazzy Red and Classical Black.
GWM’s designers have paid particular attention to provide ample in-cabin storage solutions, with the C50 boasting wide door pockets, a fold-out rear armrest with twin cup-holders, large storage box between the front seats, a spacious glove compartment and even a fold-down overhead sunglasses case for the driver.
The C50’s feature-laden interior is finished in stylish black, with silver and piano black lacquer detailing to further add to the upmarket ambience.
The steering wheel is adjustable for rake and reach, and the Elite model benefits further from the standard fitment of a height-adjustable driver’s seat.
Both C50 derivatives feature elegant and durable black cloth upholstery, and the flagship Elite model can be visually distinguised from the Luxury by its leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote audio and cruise controls and stainless steel thresholds.
Both C50 models feature a high-quality radio/CD/MP3 system with auxiliary and USB support.
The Elite gains remote audio controls and an upgraded speaker system, compared with the Luxury model.
Other standard features (on both models) include air-conditioning, power steering, electric windows all-round and electric mirror adjustment. Over and above these features, the Elite derivative also boasts cruise control and rear park distance control.
The C50 features GWM’s new GW4G15T 1,5-litre turbo petrol engine. With 93kW of power available at 5 600rpm, this engine’s output is similar to what can usually be expected from a 2,0-litre powerplant and makes the C50 one of the most powerful cars in its class, according to GWM.
The C50’s claimed combined cycle fuel consumption figure is 7,4 litres/100 km. Yet, with 188Nm of torque available over a wide rev range from 2 000 to 4 500rpm, the C50 is certainly no slouch and has a top speed of over 185km/h.
The C50’s high-strength and “cage-like” body structure forms a safety cell in the event of an accident. This inherent strenght helped the C50 achieve a full five-star rating during C-NCAP crash testing.
South African-specification C50 models feature dual front airbags, disc brakes all-round, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and BAS (Brake Assist). At the rear, Isofix anchorages provide the safest possible mounting points for child seats. Fog lights front and rear boost visibility in poor weather conditions. The rear park sensors (Elite only) limit the chances of parking scrapes.
Security is provided by a standard alarm and immobiliser, with the further convenience of remote central locking.
The C50 is available through GWM’s extensive dealership network, currently boasting more than 70 outlets and service centres.
Both C50 models are backed by GWM’s five year/100 000km warranty and comes with two-years AA roadside assistance. The prices include a five-year/60 000km service plan.
