For those who want to switch from their small cars to SUV, a new offering is in the market. Constant Business Group has introduced a new model of Zotye, which according to the company is probably the most affordable SUV in Nepal and costs no more than compact cars available in the market. At Rs 2,450,000, Zotye truly appears to be the most affordable vehicle of its kind.
The company has already sold more than 300 units of previous versions of the vehicle. The older models were available in 1.3 and 1.6 litre engines. The new model is powered by a 1.5 litre engine with a number of added features and facilities. Zotye has managed to reduce the price without compromising the quality, says the company. And even at this price, there is a lot to expect from Zotye 1.5 in terms of quality and safety. This made-in-China SUV is powered by Mitsubishi engine, which assures the much needed reliability.
The design of the new Zotye is quite impressive and elegant with a perfect balance. The design is complemented by crystal diamond halogen headlamps and large strip combination tail lamps. It also features round fog lamp and a large inlet grill. Other external features include energy absorbing front bumper and a folding electric outer rear view mirror with turning lamp. The five-door five-seater vehicle exhibits its sporty look through a stylish roof rack, a spoiler with high brake lamp and a fashionable backup tyre cover.
On the inside, the SUV appears well-equipped with features like air conditioner, power steering, electric windows, children’s lock, central locking system and a music system with 4-speaker stereo with CD player and FM radio. It also has a multi-function luggage carrier.
Its Mitsubishi 4G15 inline four cylinder, 16 valve SOHC petrol engine with multi point electric fuel injection produces a maximum power of 78 KW at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 134 Nm at 4500 rpm to support the company’s claim that the car is relatively powerful despite the small size. The vehicle is linked to a five-speed manual gearbox, driven by the rear wheels. It can go up to a maximum speed of 145 km per hour. The car is affordable and economic at the same time because of its mileage. According to the company, it gives a mileage of 12 to 14 kms in the city and 16 to 18 kms on the highways.
The high ground clearance of the Zotye at 200mm, along with McPherson struts on the front and 5-rods suspension on the rear proves to be beneficial on potholed roads and also off roads. It is equipped with disc brakes on the front and drum brakes on the rear, with vacuum booster.
For safety, the SUV is equipped with ABS and three point seat belts on all the seats. The vehicle also features driver’s safety belt alarm system, alight head lamp alarm system and over speed alarm system that help to keep the driver alert and avoid accidents. There is also energy absorbing steering and high anti-impact steel girder on all the doors that reduce the damage at the event of collision.
The company is providing a warranty of 2 years or 35,000 kms, whichever is earlier. The company claims that it provides excellent servicing of the vehicle from its service centre at Balaju. With really affordable pricing and the promised excellent specifications, it seems that Zotye 1.5 is likely to enjoy great success in the market.
