The build-up to the actual launch of the Lepas 4, coming as it did with plenty of promise alongside the heavy sales pitch. So, and opportunity to actually get behind the wheel was not one to be missed and, although a relatively short drive, it provided good insight into just what this sub-brand of Chery is all about.
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The Chinese automaker has three derivatives in the range with pricing as follows: .
- Lepas L4 Amur – R299 900
- Lepas L4 Javan – R369 900
- Lepas L4 Pantera – R419 900
While each model offers a combination of technology, safety features and design, allowing customers to select the variant that best aligns with their needs it was the top spec Pantera I sampled.
The L4 is based on the Chery Group’s LEX platform. It measures 4 406 mm in length, with a wheelbase of 2 700 mm . Buyers have a choice between two 1,5-litre petrol engines. The entry-level Amur uses a naturally aspirated unit producing 80 kW and 148 Nm, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. The Javan and Pantera models are equipped with a turbo-charged version of the engine, which delivers 108 kW and 225 Nm, coupled with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission .
The turbo petrol engine provides sufficient grunt at Reef altitudes though the dual-clutch transmission did display a tendency to hold on to gears longer under hard acceleration.
Overall, I found it to be pleasantly refined with good comfort and willing performance, delivering a comfortable ride with little wind or road noise. However, the hard plastic inside the cabin is somewhat budget style rather than the upmarket focus the pre-launch promo material promised and, even though the surfaces are well formed and seem durable, we can only hope the Chinese opt for soft-touch when the updates come through.
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On the road the Lepas performs well with – thankfully – none of the throttle lag often found in this class. While handling is predictable and fairly solid, the car is best suited to more genteel motoring as opposed to wheel-twirling through corners.
The L4 is supported by a 5 year/150 000 kilometre vehicle warranty, 5 year/75 000 kilometre service plan, 2 year Lepas Care for DCT models (1st owner) and the 10 year/1 million kilometre engine warranty (1st owner).
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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