2017 GWM M4

VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS

GWM M4

GWM’s M4 is one of those budget crossovers that tried to tempt first-time buyers with chunky looks and a slightly taller stance than your usual city hatchback. It lines up against the Suzuki Ignis, Renault Kwid, and Nissan Magnite, but with only two active listings—both 2018s—calling it rare is putting it politely. Under the bonnet sits a 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired to either a manual or a semi-auto box. Prices float between R127,500 and R149,995, and on paper at least, that’s competitive if you’re counting every cent. It comes in below most established rivals, so yes, it's an option if your budget is squeezed. You’re looking at the 1.5 Crossover trim, because that's all there is—no fancy spec walk here. Average mileage is 123,489 km, so you’ll want to check everything twice. No new cars are coming in, meaning official support is a thing of the past, which is a worry if you care about service stamps or spare parts. Buyers liked the M4 for its price and that extra bit of height—taller than a Kwid, cheaper than an Ignis. The semi-auto makes traffic a bit more bearable, especially if you’re just getting your licence. Thing is, with so few on the market, you’ll need patience and a good mechanic. That matters, because support networks for orphaned models can make or break ownership in South Africa.