2017-2021 Great Wall Steed 6 2.4i (122 Hp) 4×4

The Great Wall Steed 6 2.4i 4×4, produced from 2017 to 2021, represents Great Wall Motors’ entry into the mid-size pickup truck market. Designed primarily for utility and affordability, the Steed 6 aimed to provide a robust work vehicle for both commercial and personal use, particularly in markets where pickup trucks are popular. It was positioned as a more budget-friendly alternative to established Japanese and American brands. The Steed 6 is based on a body-on-frame construction, a traditional approach for pickup trucks, and offered a practical solution for those needing a capable and durable vehicle. This specific 2.4i 4×4 variant occupied a mid-range position within the Steed 6 lineup, offering a balance between performance, capability, and cost.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The Steed 6 2.4i 4×4 is powered by the 4G69S4N engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated design, meaning it doesn’t utilize a turbocharger or supercharger. It employs a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports just before the intake valves. The engine’s valvetrain features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, which simplifies the engine’s construction and maintenance. The 4G69 engine family has roots in Mitsubishi designs, and Great Wall licensed and adapted it for use in their vehicles. The engine produces 122 horsepower at 5150 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 2500 and 3000 rpm. The engine is mounted longitudinally in the chassis, a common configuration for four-wheel-drive vehicles. The Steed 6 2.4i 4×4 utilizes a five-speed manual transmission, providing direct control over gear selection. The 4×4 system is typically part-time, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.

Driving Characteristics

The driving experience of the Steed 6 2.4i 4×4 is characterized by its utilitarian nature. With 122 horsepower, acceleration is modest, taking approximately 13 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). The engine delivers adequate torque for everyday driving and light hauling, but it can feel strained when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The five-speed manual transmission offers a reasonable range of gear ratios, but the shift quality isn’t particularly refined. The part-time four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction on loose surfaces, making it suitable for off-road use, though it’s not designed for extreme off-roading. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (if offered in other Steed 6 variants), this 2.4i version prioritizes fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. The leaf spring rear suspension contributes to a firm ride quality, especially when unladen, but it also enhances the truck’s load-carrying capacity.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Steed 6 2.4i 4×4 typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its positioning as a value-oriented pickup truck. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically vinyl or a durable cloth material. The dashboard layout is functional but lacks the aesthetic sophistication of more modern vehicles. Optional extras could include power windows, central locking, and an upgraded audio system. Safety features were also relatively basic, typically including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, but lacking advanced driver-assistance systems like stability control or airbags beyond the driver and passenger front airbags. The trim level for this variant was generally considered a mid-range offering, providing a step up from the base model but falling short of the more luxurious trims.

Chassis & Braking

The Steed 6 utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension consists of an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, offering a degree of ride comfort and handling stability. The rear suspension employs leaf springs, which are well-suited for carrying heavy loads but can result in a firmer ride. The braking system features disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, helping to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system is a recirculating ball type, which is known for its durability but lacks the precision of more modern steering systems. The 16-inch wheels are fitted with 235/70 R16 tires, providing a balance between ride comfort and off-road capability.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Great Wall Steed 6 2.4i 4×4 was generally well-received in markets where affordability and practicality were prioritized. Critics noted its robust construction and capable four-wheel-drive system, but also pointed out its relatively basic interior and lack of refinement compared to established competitors. Fuel economy was a concern, with the 2.4-liter engine consuming 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg). Compared to other trims in the Steed 6 lineup, this 2.4i 4×4 offered a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was more affordable than potential diesel-powered variants, but less powerful. It competed directly with other budget-friendly pickup trucks from Chinese manufacturers, as well as older models from established brands.

Legacy

The Great Wall Steed 6 2.4i 4×4 has established a reputation as a reliable and durable work vehicle, particularly in regions where it was widely sold. While it may not offer the refinement or features of more modern pickup trucks, its simple design and robust construction contribute to its long-term reliability. On the used car market, the Steed 6 2.4i 4×4 remains an affordable option for those seeking a capable and practical pickup truck. Maintenance costs are generally low, thanks to the engine’s relatively simple design and the availability of spare parts. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s basic safety features and limited refinement.