New Chinese bakkie coming to South Africa – Pricing and features revealed

Changan has unveiled the specifications and expected pricing for the new Hunter bakkie ahead of its launch in South Africa.

The Chinese carmaker recently announced that its first shipment of vehicles arrived at the port in Durban last week, marking the final stage of preparations before the brand goes on sale later this month.

The shipment included three passenger cars, the Changan Alsvin sedan, the Changan CS75 Pro SUV, and the Deepal S07 SUV.

One vehicle not mentioned in the press release, but which has been hinted at in prior announcements, is the Changan Hunter – a midsize double cab bakkie.

Any concerns that we wouldn’t receive the Hunter anytime soon can now be put to rest, however, as the manufacturer has just released an overview of the pickup’s specs, giving motorists an idea of what they can expect.

Changan also hinted at the series’ pricing, stating that “the top-of-the-range 4WD AT version is expected to retail in South Africa considerably below the R600,000 mark.”

While we will have to wait until release to learn the full model selection and price list, this hint tells us that the Hunter will be one of the more affordable bakkies in South Africa.

Its main rivals will most likely be the GWM P300, JAC T-Series, and Mahindra Pik Up, which all have models well below R600,000.

In contrast, the entry-level Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, and Toyota Hilux double cabs all start at over R500,000 these days, showing how the local favourites have shifted upmarket over the last few years.

What to expect

Changan confirmed that the Hunter will be sold with a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine in South Africa, which develops 110kW and 350Nm.

It will be available in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations, which determine the gearbox.

The RWD units will have a six-speed manual shifter, while the 4WD models have a six-speed automatic transmission with a low-range setting.

The company also noted that the bakkie has a payload capacity of 1,100kg, though unfortunately, it has yet to disclose the towing capacity.

As for its equipment, a few of the highlights mentioned include LED headlights, 18-inch alloy rims, keyless entry and start, a multifunction steering wheel, soft-touch cabin finishes, and a 10-inch infotainment screen.

It will also come with assistance functions like cruise control, traction control, tyre pressure monitoring, parking sensors, and a rearview camera, and each purchase includes a 5-year/150,000km warranty.

More information about the new Hunter bakkie will be revealed when Changan launches in South Africa in late October.