The Great Wall Wingle 2.8 TD, producing 95 horsepower, was a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by the Chinese automaker Great Wall Motors from 2005 to 2012. It represented a significant step for Great Wall in targeting export markets, particularly those seeking affordable and robust work vehicles. The Wingle was positioned as a practical, no-frills pickup, offering a blend of utility and value. This specific 2.8 TD variant, while not the most powerful in the Wingle lineup, was a popular choice due to its balance of fuel efficiency and torque for everyday tasks. It was built on a body-on-frame chassis, a common construction method for pickups, and aimed to compete with established players in the entry-level pickup segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Great Wall |
| Model | Wingle |
| Generation | Wingle |
| Type (Engine) | 2.8 TD (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 28 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 28 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 26.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 19.6 kg/Hp, 51.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 121 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 34.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 2000 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | GW INTEC ENGINE – 2 |
| Engine displacement | 2771 cm3 (169.1 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 5040 mm (198.43 in) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in) |
| Height | 1730 mm (68.11 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3050 mm (120.08 in) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 in) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Wingle 2.8 TD was the GW INTEC ENGINE – 2, a 2.8-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a relatively older technology compared to direct injection systems becoming prevalent at the time. Precombustion chambers helped improve combustion efficiency in older diesel designs, but generally resulted in slightly higher emissions and noise levels. The engine was turbocharged and intercooled, boosting power output to 95 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 225 Nm (165.95 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The torque figure was more significant than the horsepower, making it suitable for hauling and towing. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the chassis. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, providing a straightforward and durable drivetrain.
Driving Characteristics
The Wingle 2.8 TD with the manual transmission offered a utilitarian driving experience. Acceleration was modest, taking approximately 28 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). The focus was on providing sufficient torque for work-related tasks rather than outright speed. The gear ratios were tuned for low-end grunt, making it capable of handling moderate loads and navigating rough terrain. Compared to potential higher-output versions (which were not widely available in export markets), this 95 hp variant felt less strained during heavy use. The leaf spring rear suspension, while robust, contributed to a somewhat firm ride, especially when unladen. The 4×4 system provided added traction in off-road conditions, making it a versatile vehicle for rural areas.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Wingle 2.8 TD was typically offered with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically vinyl or a durable cloth material. The dashboard layout was functional but lacked the refinement of more established pickup trucks. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include power windows, central locking, and upgraded audio systems. The emphasis was on providing a practical and affordable vehicle, so luxury features were kept to a minimum.
Chassis & Braking
The Wingle utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. Front suspension consisted of torsion bars, while the rear employed leaf springs. This setup prioritized load-carrying capacity over ride comfort. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. This configuration was common for pickups in this price range. The tires were typically 235/70 R16, providing a good balance of on-road and off-road performance. Stabilizer bars were present, but their thickness was modest, reflecting the vehicle’s focus on practicality rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Great Wall Wingle 2.8 TD was generally well-received in markets where affordability was a primary concern. Critics noted its robust construction and decent torque output, but also pointed out its relatively basic interior and somewhat agricultural driving experience. Compared to other trims in the Wingle lineup, the 2.8 TD offered a good balance of fuel economy and performance. It was more economical than potential higher-powered gasoline engine options, and offered more power than smaller diesel variants. However, it lacked the refinement and features of more established pickup trucks from brands like Toyota or Ford.
Legacy
The Great Wall Wingle 2.8 TD played a role in establishing Great Wall Motors as a credible player in the global pickup truck market. While not known for exceptional reliability, the GW INTEC ENGINE – 2 proved to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these vehicles are now relatively affordable and can be found in various conditions. Common issues include wear and tear on the suspension components, and potential problems with the precombustion chamber injection system as the engines age. Despite its age, the Wingle 2.8 TD remains a viable option for those seeking a simple, affordable, and capable pickup truck for light-duty work.
