Florid Challenges Peers

For the past decade, China’s GreatWall Motors, the fastest growing Chinese vehicle manufacturers has been known mainly as a manufacturer of pickup trucks and utility vehicles, both at home and in such export markets as Russia, South Africa and Italy.

In recent years, it has also gained a reputation as a maker of small passenger cars with such names as GreatWall Florid. Recently, GreatWall flexed its design muscles a bit more, displaying a rapidly expanding portfolio of products.

If the Toyota Yaris had a long lost Chinese cousin, it would be the GreatWall Florid. It performs to par with its rivals. The ingredients are getting better including a Euro IV spec 1.3 litre engine as well as commendable design and an interestingly stylish cabin. Fit and finish pars with the level of the Koreans. Fully kitted but pricey.

It is a 5-door compact hatchback with two rows of seats. The rear row has foldaway seats which can give the interior a feel of larger space. The exterior of this dynamic hatchback looks gorgeous and splendid like its name.

The GW Florid appears to be jam-packed with technology not usually found on cars in its price range, which might actually be its best selling point in a country where the people are starting to really love technology. The GW Florid comes with dual Front Airbags and ABS(not usually seen on some brands in its segment), anti-theft devices as standard as well as full electric windows, smart key entry, remote boot unlocking, LED fog lights (front and rear), child seat stays, child locks, reversing radars, leather steering wheel, automatic air con, sunroof, DVD player and a GPS system, airbags and ABS.

Great Wall Florid is targeted to challenge the same kind of cars with joint venture brands making use of its comprehensive quality price ratio.

In a statement by  Cica Nigeria Limited, authorized marketer of Greatwall products, “every sedan with independent brand has its own development road. Our idea on car making is very clear.

“Our products must have high starting point, global edition and must meet the international standards. Greatwall makes high quality cars with the target to cross 1 million units before the end of 2nd quarter next year.

“We will change the opinion of consumers on independent brands with elaborate products which are made through innovative technology.”

The strong selling point mainly is the aesthetics – both interior and exterior and equally its low fuel consumption rate– that should appeal more to the fairer sex and also to young beginners of both public and private companies.