WeeklySA_AdminCOMPELLING: The Changan Hunter 2.0-litre turbodiesel 2WD MT double cab makes for a compelling proposition blending traditional rugged strength with contemporary styling in an affordable package…
By Ali Mphaki
Its not a Hilux. It’s the Changan Hunter. Priced at below the R500k mark, the Hunter makes for a compelling option compared with its high-priced but low-spec rivals offering features and performance more than its cost.
Relatively new to the market, brand Changan re-entered the SA market last year courtesy of Saudi-based Jameel Motors marking their return with an initial five-model local line-up, among others, a duo of models, the Hunter 2.0L 2WD MT (seen in pictures) and the flagship Hunter REEV (range-extended electric vehicle).
We had the Hunter 2.0L turbodiesel six-speed manual version in stellar white for road impressions and for several days wallowed in its realities of modern work – being tough where it counts and refined where it matters.
From the outside noticeable is how the Changan Hunter shares some similarities with its “brother” the Peugeot Landtrek. Reason is that the two models were developed as part of a collaboration between the French Peugeot and Chinese Changan.
The two models also share similar suspension and interior arrangements, among others, but what easily distinguishes the Hunter from the Landtrek, however, is the huge “CHANGAN” lettering across the tailgate.
Methinks the name HUNTER should have been more ideal but somehow understand the CHANGAN stickering across the tailgate could be for brand marketing purposes, but this does nothing to its bold and rugged exterior.
The grille with the Changan logo features integrated LED daytime running headlamps, side steps and roof rails, tinted windows, chrome side mirrors, size 17 alloy shoes, all seemingly focussed to its utility and giving the illusion of being a highly expensive bakkie. Sitting on 17-inch rims and at a height of 1, 875 metres the Hunter is no shrinking violet and its payload capacity is listed as 1 100kg and features a neat lining to protect scratches
Inside the cabin is a driver-focused dashboard which includes a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone monitoring. Unlike in the flagship Hunter REEV derivative with leather seats, the 2WD features synthetic leather, soft touch finishes in a generous interior proving that toughness can also be comfortable.
Grad rails make for easy convenience and with a ride height of 220mm, once behind the multifunction steering leather-wrapped steeringwheel one becomes a master of all they survey.
As the base model, our test Changan Hunter unit did have keyless entry but minus the start/stop button. It uses also boast another relic of the past – a cigarette lighter.
Bring the 2.0 L turbodiesel motor to life and the ride quality could be described as cushy and comfortable, even if the turbo feels sluggish at first something to be expected from a diesel truck.
The engine delivers a perky 110 kW and 350Nm of torque and within the 350Nm rpm of torque delivers strong enough power for moving heavy loads and dependable in demanding circumstances.
While the gearshift is precise when unladen the Changan Hunter tends to be bouncy and jittery when hitting those Gauteng potholes. It completes the mandatory 0 – 100km spring in 14,9 seconds.
Took it on dirt road the other day and it proved highly adaptable and capable, even though it lacks independently locking differentials, said to be a sine con non for extreme 4×4 trails.
Off-road the suspension felt supple and versatile and fuel consumption was at an acceptable level of about 9-10 litres.
As a daily companion it is hard to fault the Changan Hunter what with its excellent viewing angles making for easy and confident driving in city streets further enhanced with rear camera and rear parking sensors, ABS, front airbags.
As a new contender in the light commercial vehicle sector the Changan Hunter is a real pickup for various conditions – both suited for weekdays and weekends even if the sound system lacks bass.
But with such a price tag, chances are we are likely to see more and more bakkie lovers gravitating towards the Changan Hunter.
The Hunter has become the hunted!
@ All Changan models come with a standard 5-year/150 000 km warranty.
