Nigeria - Nigeria Official Great Wall vehicle marketer in Nigeria, CICA Nigeria Limited, has introduced a new Double Cabin Pick-up with enhanced bed. The Great Wall Wingle model is being positioned to rub shoulders with class-leaders, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and other vehicles in the pick-up segment. Beneath the appealingly rugged exterior beats the heart of a true legend, this was the reason CICA Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of CFAO Group never relented in making the Wingle a household name in Nigeria. Just as Great Wall's products are reliable and suited to local conditions, they have been trusted by users because in just 18 years, Great Wall Motor Company is fast becoming one of China's largest private transnational corporations. In Nigeria, however, there is one for every need - agricultural purposes, corporate agencies, security companies and other industrial outfits. There is the Wingle 4x2 Single cabin with a 2.2 litre engine. Wingle 4x2 Double cabin with the same engine capacity. Wingle 4x4 Luxury with fabric seat and the Super Luxury with leather seat and equipped with a 2.4 litre engine. Expectedly with the soaring demand for the wingle versions, GWM plans on launching 24 new models in the next 24 months in Nigeria.

At first glance, the Wingle has a classy macho look. The front end has been designed to showcase its sultry yet powerful nature. The deep bumper and large gapping air vent resembles the new Audi design language. Everything about the design of the Wingle's front end would fit perfectly unto an up-market saloon car. That should be a good thing. The long wheelbase of 3050mm means it should be a practical luggage mover. The headlights cluster houses two high-intensity lamps as well as the indicators. Chrome trimmings on the bonnet and side mirrors add to the visual appeal of the Wingle. Large silver coloured wheel arches look rather nice and trendy. They also provide good clearance for the 16 inch tyres. As is now common in twin cabs, the third brake light also takes pride of place. Alloy rims add character and complete the exterior trim.

The driver's space is more saloon than pickup in layout. It sits two with a generous holdall compartment between the seats. Headroom is sufficient and the adjustable seat makes it a breeze to achieve a comfortable driving position. The dashboard features AC, headlight adjusters, power windows, two Speaker CD player/FM radio is something to write home about. Other features include cup holders, spacious glove compartment and an electronic side mirror adjustment. There is even a 12V outlet to charge your cell phone in addition to the cigarette lighter. Shifting between two and four wheel drive is a simple button push away. The rear cabin is configured for two passengers though three can be accommodated in a pinch. No complaints from the knees department at the back as legroom is sufficient.

Engine: The 4x4 version Wingle is powered by a GW2.4 petrol Mitsubishi engine which is the first high pressure common rail electrical direct injection engine developed by Great Wall Motors. It has a claimed top speed of 140kph with the benefit of safety technology like airbags and ABS.

If you are looking for a workhorse that can manage both urban and rural roads, the Wingle is worth looking into. It is indeed in direct competition with the luxury models available in this market which is a real bargain, judging by the quality of interior finish with vital safety features, this should be a great worry to the established Japanese brands.

Daily Champion/15/03/2011