“The H6 City is the ultimate expression of our commitment to offering unbeatable value,” says Brand Manager Hannes Oosthuizen. “It is a completely modern, spacious and luxurious SUV that, at the price of R259 900, can’t be rivalled for value.”
Powering the H6 City is the recently introduced 1.5T powerplant which is perfectly aligned with the current trend of engine downsizing, allowing for performance of a larger, naturally aspirated engine, but without the accompanying fuel consumption penalty.
It develops 105 kW at 5 600 rpm and 210 Nm of torque from 2 200 to 4 500 rpm. Mated with a slick six-speed manual transmission, the engine boasts a claimed combined cycle fuel consumption figure of only 8,5 litres/100 km.
As is the case with the H5 City, the new entry level H6 derivative appears just as neat and sophisticated as its more expensive siblings, with the only giveaway to its status being the lack of roof rails. It still boasts attractive 17-inch alloy wheels, comprehensive colour coding, daylight running lamps and rear privacy glass as standard, lending the H6 City an upmarket appearance that belies its price positioning.
Whereas the H5 City utilises a body-on-frame construction method with rear-wheel drive, the H6 City boasts a unibody platform and front-wheel drive. During its development great emphasis was placed on the reduction of NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels to ensure a quiet and refined cabin environment. Suspension is via a comfort- and stability boosting multi-link set-up at the rear.
Comfort levels are further boosted by a generous standard specification package. “Value is not only about offering a low price,” explains Oosthuizen. “The H6 City’s cabin is packed with so many comfort and safety features that it would still appeal even at a significantly higher cost.” As is the case with all H6 derivatives, the steering wheel offers generous rake and reach adjustability, the gearlever is mounted on the facia, so it falls easily to hand, and there are fold-down armrests for both front occupants. Climate control keeps the very spacious cabin cool and the radio/CD system boasts USB and auxiliary input support.
Power-assisted steering, power windows all-round and electric mirror adjustment are all standard, but the fitment of rear park sensors will come as a surprise at this price level. Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and rear Isofix child seat mountings are part of a comprehensive safety package.
