2011-2016 Great Wall Steed 5 2.4i (136 Hp) 4×4

The Great Wall Steed 5 2.4i 4×4, produced between 2011 and 2016, represents Great Wall Motors’ entry into the mid-size pickup truck market. Designed primarily for utility and affordability, the Steed 5 aimed to provide a robust and capable vehicle for both commercial and personal use, particularly in developing markets and as an alternative to established brands. This specific 2.4-liter, 136 horsepower variant with four-wheel drive occupied a central position in the Steed 5 lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel economy, and price. It was positioned as a workhorse, appealing to buyers needing a practical vehicle for hauling and off-road capability without the expense of more premium trims.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The Steed 5 2.4i 4×4 is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, while not particularly sophisticated, was chosen for its reliability and relatively low production cost. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, a common setup for vehicles of this class during the early 2010s. The engine’s naturally aspirated design means it relies solely on atmospheric pressure to draw air into the cylinders, resulting in a more linear power delivery compared to turbocharged engines. The engine code is not widely publicized, but it shares similarities with other Great Wall engines of the period. The five-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available for this variant, providing direct control over the engine’s power. The transmission was selected for its durability and simplicity, aligning with the vehicle’s overall utilitarian focus.

Driving Characteristics

The driving experience of the Steed 5 2.4i 4×4 is best described as functional rather than sporty. With 136 horsepower and a relatively high curb weight, acceleration is modest, taking approximately 12.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). The five-speed manual transmission offers a reasonable spread of gears, but the gear ratios are tuned for hauling and off-road capability rather than outright speed. The 4×4 system provides enhanced traction on loose surfaces, making it suitable for navigating unpaved roads and moderate off-road conditions. Compared to potential higher-output versions (which were not widely available in export markets), this variant prioritizes fuel efficiency and ease of use over raw performance. The suspension is tuned for comfort and load-carrying capacity, resulting in a somewhat soft and compliant ride, even when the bed is empty.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Steed 5 2.4i 4×4 was typically equipped with a basic but functional set of features. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Interior appointments were simple, with durable plastic trim and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, available in some markets, added features such as power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. However, the 2.4i 4×4 variant generally represented the entry-level or mid-range offering, focusing on providing essential features at an affordable price point. Optional extras were limited, typically consisting of bed liners, tow hitches, and upgraded audio systems.

Chassis & Braking

The Steed 5 utilizes a body-on-frame construction, a traditional design for pickup trucks that provides robust strength and durability. The suspension consists of double wishbones at the front and leaf springs at the rear, a configuration common in this class of vehicle. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for typical use, the braking system is not particularly sophisticated. The steering system employs a rack and pinion setup with electric power steering, providing reasonable steering feel and maneuverability. The chassis was designed to handle a significant payload, making it suitable for commercial applications.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Great Wall Steed 5 2.4i 4×4 received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its affordability and practicality, but noted its lack of refinement compared to established competitors from brands like Toyota, Ford, and Nissan. Fuel economy, at 10.6 l/100 km, was considered average for a vehicle of its size and type. Compared to other trims in the Steed 5 lineup, the 2.4i 4×4 offered a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was more affordable than potential diesel variants, but offered less torque and towing capacity. Its primary appeal lay in its value proposition – a capable and reliable pickup truck at a competitive price.

Legacy

The Great Wall Steed 5, and specifically the 2.4i 4×4 variant, played a significant role in establishing Great Wall Motors as a credible player in the global pickup truck market. While not known for groundbreaking innovation, the Steed 5 offered a practical and affordable alternative to more established brands. The powertrain, while simple, proved to be reasonably reliable, and used examples remain relatively common in some markets. Today, the Steed 5 2.4i 4×4 is viewed as a budget-friendly workhorse, offering a no-frills transportation solution for those prioritizing utility and affordability over luxury and performance. Its long-term reliability is generally considered good, provided regular maintenance is performed.