Gazelle – resign? The Chinese offer an analogue for 1.7 million rubles

Less or more?

Two versions of the Dongfeng Captain-T are delivered to Russia – with a gross weight of 2.5 and 3.5 tons.

The first is necessary in order to move freely on the territory of Moscow, despite the restrictions in the form of a cargo frame.

They are no different in terms of technical filling. Suspension, frame and rear axle are all unified.

So if you choose a version with a total weight of 2.5 tons, you know that it can carry a ton more without any problems. But before the first weight management post.

Adapted to Russia?

Here the Chinese Dongfeng Captain-T is far from smooth.

The radiator of the cooling system protrudes from below – it can easily be damaged on the floor. The radiator of the air conditioning hangs on the side of the frame – it can break through any stone that has flown from under the wheel.

There are already signs of rust on the wheels. Corrosion also appears on the new exhaust system. What will happen to the cabin and bodywork is still unclear.

The turbodiesel is equipped with a urea injection system, which is not very convenient in our conditions. After all, AdBlue liquid already freezes at -11 ^OOF.

How’s the driving?

Landing is comfortable and visibility from the driver’s seat is good.

But unlike the GAZelle, three people don’t fit here. The cabin is noticeably tighter.

In passenger “Chinese” the chemical smell is no longer found. In the truck we smell an unpleasant plastic smell. Panels with sharp flashes and uneven gaps between them are reminiscent of the prototypes of our cars of the late 1990s.

In addition, there are few places in the cabin where small items can be stored. There is no normal platform for a smartphone. Nowhere to put or secure the tablet with documents.

Is Bodro going?

A 2.2-liter diesel engine with a capacity of 128 horsepower is installed under the cabin, with which a five-speed gearbox works. The engine pulls the truck perfectly, without falling through to the cutoff. The problem is that the closing is happening early.

The sixth gear is missing – already at 90 km / h, the engine runs at 3000 rpm, and the fuel consumption reaches 16 l / 100 km. This makes it very noisy in the cockpit even up to 100 km / h.

The suspension absorbs bumps well. But because the seat is above the front axle, all shocks are transmitted to the driver.

Captain or Gazelle?

The Chinese Dongfeng Captain-T has no serious advantages over the GAZelle Business. It is better not to compare it with GAZelle Next. Dongfeng is less comfortable, less adapted to our circumstances.

Despite the diesel, it has a high fuel consumption. And it will be incomparably easier to operate and repair the GAZelle. After all, spare parts for it can be found in any store.

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• “Driving” can be seen on YouTube.