pick-up truck Archives

Isuzu D-MAX Auto Plus with 4×2 drivetrain added to D-MAX range, priced from RM100,999

Before they became the ‘lifestyle’ machines of today, pick-up trucks have traditionally been workhorses. They have been used in worksites, in the jungle and anywhere ordinary vehicles could not go. Because of such a role, they were usually basic with minimum convenience features as the things that mattered to customers were performance, capability and of course, durability and reliability.

That image has long been dispelled by manufacturers such as Isuzu, specialists in pick-up trucks and light commercial vehicles. When the transition occurred from being purely for business use to a more dual-purpose role, Isuzu was ready to offer vehicles with better comfort and convenience – without sacrificing the core strengths.

The latest third-generation Isuzu D-Max is an excellent example of this evolution. Those who remember the first D-MAX that appeared in Malaysia 18 years ago will know best just how much change has taken place in the model. The Isuzu DNA has been retained but it is now a bold and stylish vehicle with even better performance and technologies.

Because of its dual-purpose role, manufacturers of pick-up trucks typically develop a variety of versions with different powertrains and drivetrains to suit different needs. Joining the D-MAX range in Malaysia today is a new variant – the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2. The 4×2 drivetrain means it has only rear-wheel drive.

According to Isuzu Malaysia, only 28% of pick-up truck users in this country frequently make use of their vehicle’s 4×4 system. These could well be the ones who use it in its original role in off-road conditions where 4×4 is helpful. For the rest, the vehicle might be used as daily transport to work or even just a weekend vehicle for recreation.

Less weight, less complexity
While 4×4 is useful, it also means additional weight with additional hardware which a 4×2 does not need. The less complex drivetrain, with just a propeller shaft to the rear axle lowers means lower kerb weight and there’s also lower rolling resistance. Maintenance requirements are also less, so for those who do not really need 4×4, this variant would be ideal.

By not having the transfer case, front differential and ancillary drive system, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 weighs 1,830 kgs, a difference of 85 kgs compared to the 4×4 variant and about the weight of an average adult.

Based on similar specifications as the D-Max Standard 4×4 Auto variant, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 is powered by the latest 1.9-litre RZ4E-TC 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces a 150 ps/350 Nm. The engine has impressive performance despite its smaller displacement than other pick-ups. Power delivery to the rear wheels is via a 6-speed automatic transmission with ratios identical to the 4×4 variant. However, the tuning has been matched to exploit the engine’s dynamic performance characteristics, in particular, its flat torque delivery and flexible throttle response.

The Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform supports the vehicle and offers good stability and excellent flex resistance, making it a very capable vehicle regardless of load. To be able to have a superior payload capability, the standard suspension rating is specified for the double wishbone set-up up front and 3-leaf semi-elliptical springs in the rear.

Safety systems like a car
The pick-up truck has not only evolved in features and performance but also has much better safety than the earlier generations. The driver of today’s D-MAX has ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for assured and stable braking as well as control, along with Brake Assist to boost braking pressure when needed. The vehicle even comes with Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control which will help maintain stability on slippery surfaces, especially corners. In off-road conditions (yes, a 4×2 can also go off-road), the driver can get help from Hill Start Assist) and Hill Descent Control as well as a Brake Override System.

For those who find the length of a pick-up truck intimidating, especially when reverse parking, there are reverse sensors in the rear bumper to help. These provide audible assistance to the driver, complemented by a 4-zone graphic in the instrument panel to indicate the location and distance to obstacles. So there’s no more guesswork when parking and no stress either.

Manufacturers used to give less attention to safety where pick-up trucks were concerned but that is not the case today. The construction and safety systems are also comparable to passenger cars and in the case of the latest D-MAX range which ASEAN NCAP has crash-tested, the findings warrant the maximum safety rating of 5 stars.

Comfortable and safe double cab
Inside the double cab of the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2, the seats have a woven-texture fabric that is both hard-wearing and easy to clean. The seats are generously-proportioned with ample support for comfort over long periods. The driver’s seat can even be manually adjusted 6 ways to suit just about any body shape.

For the safety of everyone on board, all seats in the D-Max are designed to offer whiplash protection while ISOFIX mounts are available in the rear seats for compatible childseats. All 5 occupants get inertia reel 3-point seatbelts and if one is not in use but there is an occupant, there will be an audible and visual reminder.

The D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 is clearly not a ‘low-cost’ version which usually means minimum features and equipment. It comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel that has audio and phone controls as well as switches to manage the views on the 4.2-inch colour display in the instrument panel. The instrument panel has an e-LUMAX display that makes it easy to read in all lighting conditions.

The 7-inch multimedia system has touchscreen convenience and connectivity options such as USB, Bluetooth, wifi, MirrorLink, Miracast, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay so it will be possible to interface most smartphones with the system. Power for devices can be obtained from a 12V 120W plug-in power socket up front and one USB port each for front and rear users.

“In these challenging times, the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L brings a new level of relief by offering affordability and capability in a well-appointed and stylish package. This new D-Max variant that we are introducing today will be the sole 4×2 offering in its class that comes with an automatic transmission,” said Kenkichi Sogo, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia.

The new D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 can be booked from today, with deliveries beginning from early November 2021. For the Peninsular Malaysia market, it is priced from RM100,999.20 without insurance. Customers can choose from 5 colour choices and the standard warranty is 5 years or a maximum of 150,000 kms.

For more information on this model and other D-Max variants available in Malaysia, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my where you can find e-brochures and make online requests for a test drive.

No replacement for displacement? Isuzu destroys that perception!

New Michelin LTX Trail for growing SUV and pick-up market

Michelin, as a leader with a long history in the tyre industry, offers tyres for all types of vehicles… even spacecraft. With over 130 years of experience in making tyres, the company has built up its technological knowledge to develop the best tyres for each sector.

For the growing SUV sector, Michelin Malaysia has recently introduced the Michelin LTX Trail tyre, specifically designed for SUVs and also applicable for use on pick-up trucks. This new tyre has extended lifespan, with excellent wet braking performance – even when worn – for long-lasting safety. It is suitable for highway use as well as on unpaved roads and unlike many such tyres, it also generates lower noise levels for a more comfortable ride.

The extended lifespan can provide up to 41% longer mileage, thanks to the RallyForce2 Tread Compound. This makes the tyre more durable so it can give maximum service life, even with off-road use. The new tread design is also a contributory factor with the Biting Shoulder that wraps from the tread down the sidewall. This results in better protection against sidewall aggression and ensures greater off-road performance and traction.

Variable Thickness Sipes (those small slits in tyres) provide improved contact patch that enhances handling and grip. Braking performance is also better, even on wet roads. When compared to its premium competitors, the LTX Trail has been able to stop 3.1 metres shorter when new, and 4.6 metres shorter when worn. On dry roads, when new, it stops 3.8 metres shorter. The sipes are deep so even the tyre is worn, the performance remains consistent and high.

Quietness is not always a strong point of tyres for SUVs and pick-up trucks. However, factory tests show that the LTX Trail has 19.8% lower sound pressure level. This is thanks to Duo-Harmony Blocks featuring two different block shapes in the tread’s centre that spread the noise generated across a wider spectrum.

The Michelin LTX tyres are suitable for SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner (above) and pick-up trucks like the Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-MAX and Ford Ranger (below).

“At Michelin, we are constantly innovating to enable people to move around more freely, safely; and to live a better life in motion. The new Michelin LTX Trail is a great match for the increasing popularity of SUVs, which is projected to grow 5.6% year-on-year, from 2021 to 2026. Perfect for consumers who own 4×2 and 4×4 high-rise pickups, as well as SUVs – such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, and Nissan Navara – these tyres also cater to those whose lifestyle demands the ability to reach on- and off-road destinations, for work or pleasure,” said Oliver Biggart, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

“We are confident that the new MICHELIN LTX Trail gives drivers in Malaysia a safe and comfortable ride on the road, across a variety of terrain – ranging from city commuting, wet road, highway driving, to light and moderate off-road,” added Mr. Biggart.

For the Malaysia market, the LTX Trail is offered in 9 sizes to fit with rim dimensions ranging between 15 and 18 inches. It is available at Michelin’s authorized tyre dealers nationwide. For more information on the Michelin tyre range and location of dealers, visit the Michelin Malaysia website.

Michelin’s airless UPTIS tyre now undergoing testing, market launch in 2024

Locally-assembled JMC Vigus Pro 4×4 pick-up truck to be launched in near future

Angka-Tan Motor Sdn Bhd (ATM), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Berhad, has been appointed as the distributor of the Vigus Pro 4×4 pick-up truck made by Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd (JMC). This follows the signing of a Vehicle Technology Licensing agreement between the two companies in July last year.

Under the agreement, ATM has the sole right to manufacture, assemble and sell the JMC Vigus Pro 4×4 pick-up truck and related parts and components in Malaysia. For assembly, ATM would naturally use Tan Chong Motor Assemblies, which has already begun assembling the first batch of vehicles.

“We are pleased to announce that after more than 12 months of hard work, Angka-Tan Motor, in collaboration with Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd, is ready to introduce an exciting contender in the popular pick-up segment. The stylish and technologically advanced JMC Vigus Pro 4×4 pick-up truck has proven its mettle in the Chinese market and we can’t wait to share this new product with pick-up fans across Malaysia,” said Tan Keng Meng, CEO of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd.

“As a leading manufacturer and exporter of light commercial vehicles in China, we are thrilled to offer Malaysian consumers a versatile yet attractive pick-up truck engineered with the latest technologies. JMC has been standing as the second best-selling brand in the pick-up segment in China for many consecutive years. We would like to congratulate Angka-Tan Motor’s appointment as the official distributor of the JMC Vigus Pro 4×4 and to also express our appreciation to Warisan TC for their support in making this a reality,” said Xiong Chunying, President of Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd.

2-litre turbodiesel with 8-speed transmission
The Vigus Pro is powered by a 2-litre 4-cylinder VGT turbodiesel engine which has an output of 141 ps/340 Nm with claimed consumption of 12.8 kms/litre. Its drivetrain consists of an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and BorgWarner 4WD System with High and Low ranges, as well as an Eaton Rear Differential Lock.

For safety, there are active systems such as Bosch ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, and for safer reversing, a rearview camera is provided.

ATM plans to offer the Vigus Pro 4×4 at 13 sales and service outlets nationwide. Prices and specifications of the vehicle will be released later this month. Aftersales support is assured by a nationwide service network offering dedicated mobile service and 24/7 Res-Q response, backed by the resources of Tan Chong Group.

In the meantime, display units are available at ATM’s flagship showroom in Klang, Selangor. Bookings are also being accepted by authorised dealers which can be found at the JMC Malaysia website or by calling 03-3359 6068.

MILITEM FEROX-T is a Sport Utility Truck, not a mere pick-up truck

Pick-up trucks aren’t an Italian speciality and there are no models of note in this segment. However, when it comes to coachbuilding and customising vehicles, the Italians have a long history. Besides the well known names, there are also smaller outfits like MILITEM which creates automobiles for the premium-luxury market.

The company works exclusively with American vehicles and applies typical ‘Made in Italy’ craftsmanship. Its latest offering is the FEROX-T, a more upmarket truck that is referred to as a Spot Utility Truck (SUT). It is a premium luxury product and merges the ruggedness of its American background with the Italian flair.

Developed from Jeep model
The FEROX-T is developed from Jeep’s Gladiator Rubicon model, which already has all-terrain capability, a high-degree of functionality and versatility. It’s a fully engineered vehicle which combines the comfort of an SUV and the functionality of a pick-up.

What MILITEM has done is the enhance the characteristics of each and add a host of technical and content upgrades. In terms of performance and technical specifications, MILITEM would like to declare the FEROX-T as the ‘supercar among pick-ups’.

The bodywork has a strong, hi-tech and muscular image, unique in one sense but also maintaining the overall ‘family feeling’ of the MILITEM range. Features such as the brand’s emblematic honeycomb black grille (also available in carbonfibre), wide-body wheel arches (in carbonfibre or body-coloured) and MILITEM’s own 20-inch rims provide the exclusivity.

The FEROX roll-bar
A distinctive element is the FEROX Bar. This is a roll-bar which is more stylish than the original and allows the retractable LED headlights to be fitted. Also available as an option is the cargo bed in a hi-tech nautical material (customers can select their own colour).

The FEROX-T also has motorised retractable running boards, new smoked ‘Neutral fume’ front and rear lights, door rim puddle lights and can also be equipped with an LED lightbar in the front bumper. The two Black Performance tailpipes are in-house design features. They have a Dual-Mode function to enhance the SUT’s twin personality: a button on the centre console modifies the exhaust notes.

Comfortable, luxurious enclosure
The cabin is a comfortable and luxurious enclosure with refinement and high-grade materials. Customers get Italian leather upholstery on the seats fitted by hand and the option to select Alcantara inserts. Personalisation is, of course, possible with a wide range of leather, fabric (including denim) and technical fabrics.

The all-black detailing adds an extra touch of luxury and sportiness to the cabin. The centre console houses a button that activates the multi-coloured ambient lighting, another exclusive touch.

V6 power with Rock-Trac 4×4 system
The FEROX-T uses the same engine that comes with the Gladiator Rubicon, a 285 bhp/353 Nm 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine. An 8-speed automatic transmission and 4×4 Rock-Trac system drives all four wheels. MILITEM engineers have tuned the suspension and there are twin-tank dampeners in aluminium and finished in carbonfibre.

Pricing for the FEROX-T in Italy starts from 97,490 euros (about RM473,000) and the warranty in European markets is 36 months/100,000 kms but can be extended to 72 months with unlimited mileage.

Hennessey produces World’s Fastest and Most Powerful Pick-up Truck – the MAMMOTH 1000 TRX

Safer, more immersive experience for Isuzu customers in the era of the New Normal

Isuzu Malaysia’s customers can expect a safer and more immersive Isuzu experience in the era of the New Normal as the country continues on its journey to recovery from the pandemic. This is the promise from Kenkichi Sogo, the company’s new Light Commercial Vehicle Division’s Chief Operating Officer, as the continuing threat of infections necessitates the enforcement of various safety measures.

Among the measures Isuzu Malaysia has initiated has been the development of an online experience including a 360-degree augmented reality showcase offering prospects an immersive look into the design and features of the latest D-Max pick-up truck before they even need to step into the showrooms. Most shopping tools ranging from loan calculations to maintenance costs are interactively available at the website (pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my), allowing visitors to make informed choices before requesting online for a test drive vehicle to be brought to them at a safe and convenient location.

Procedures for vehicle servicing and maintenance have also been reviewed with the aim of ensuring minimal backlog and ensuring a smoother and efficient flow of vehicles brought in for servicing. Customers are encouraged to make their service appointments directly with their dealers early to ensure their preferred time slots are available.

With over 500 monthly bookings for the new D-Max since its launch, the task in hand will also be to safely hand over the vehicles to the customers. “Due to the restrictions in operations and the limited amount of logistics activities allowed over the past months, a key initiative will be to safely and efficiently deliver the new vehicles to their owners as quickly as possible. We hope all our customers will remain patient and maintain compliance to the set procedures to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all,” said Mr. Sogo.

He added that while the new D-Max has created a significant amount of interest and witnessed a surge in vehicle bookings over the past 3 months, resulting in Isuzu consecutively claiming the No.2 spot in its segment.

*An Isuzu dealership in Taiping, Perak.*

“The launch of our latest Isuzu D-Max model during the pandemic necessitated a paradigm shift in the way we presented our new models to prospective customers. As we move towards greater leniency, we need to vigilantly evolve yet remain relevant to the situation in our Gemba (operating environment),” said Mr. Sogo.

Mr. Sogo, 43, is no stranger to the Malaysian market. He spent the last 4 years in Isuzu Malaysia as General Manager overseeing operations of the light commercial vehicle division and parts operations. A graduate of Keio University in Japan, Mr. Sogo began his career in Mitsubishi Corporation in 2001 and has been involved with the Isuzu business for the past 7 years. He was appointed Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia as successor to Masayuki Suzuki, who has returned to the head office in Japan to take on a new position.

To know more about Isuzu vehicles and the locations of authorised dealers, visit www.isuzu.net.my.

Average Monthly orders for New Isuzu D-MAX are 100% higher than for previous generation

No charges for scheduled servicing during first two years of Ford Ranger ownership

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) is constantly looking for ways to give its customers a better deal and for those who are interested in buying a new Ford Ranger WildTrak or XLT Plus model, there is now free scheduled servicing for the first two years of ownership.

Available for 2021 model year units, the 2-year free servicing package (terms and conditions apply) is available on a first come, first served basis (while stocks last). As with all Ranger models, the WildTrak and XLT Plus are backed by Ford’s new 5-year/160,000 kms manufacturer’s warranty.

“We’re constantly evolving to find ways to deliver more value-add to customers. The 2-year free service offer aims to provide peace of mind for customers, especially in these challenging times,” said Turse Zuhair, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

“Additionally, virtual consultations with a Ford Ranger Specialist not only ensures customer safety amidst the ongoing pandemic, it also raises the level of personalised experience and convenience that customers are looking for,” he said.

He was referring to the company’s recent enhancement of its customer service with the introduction of the Ford Ranger Specialists. These are dedicated experts on the products who can help new and existing customers to be more familiar with the many vehicle features and benefits. By knowing more about their vehicle, they will be able to get the most out of their Rangers and enjoy using the pick-up truck.

There are two powertrain choices – a 213 ps/500 Nm 2-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission with the Ranger Wildtrak, and a 180 ps/420 Nm 2-litre Single-Turbo diesel engine with the Ranger XLT Plus.

Besides refinement that is above average for a pick-up truck, the Ranger Wildtrak also comes with very high safety standards. The smart safety technologies include first in-class features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking with Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning and Semi-Automatic Parallel Parking. There are also convenience features such as keyless entry with pushstart button and the Easy Lift Tailgate.

For more information, visit www.sdacford.com.my or send a WhatsApp message to +6019 204 1200. A Ford Ranger Specialist will respond to the message and provide assistance and information. Test-drives and viewing at showrooms are not available at this time due to ongoing MCO restrictions.

2021 Ford Rangers get 5-year warranty as standard

Average Monthly orders for New Isuzu D-MAX are 100% higher than for previous generation

Despite the difficult market conditions that affect the auto industry, demand for new vehicles continues although perhaps not as strongly as usual at the moment. However, for Isuzu Malaysia, the D-MAX has been showing strong demand with orders for the pick-up truck rising by over 100%. This mirrors the situation in other markets where the vastly-improved model has been launched.

Since being launched in April this year, the third generation of the D-MAX has seen average monthly bookings of over 1,200 units. With the previous generation, Isuzu Malaysia received around 500 bookings each month. According to Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer, Masayuki Suzuki, this trend is identical in such markets as Australia, New Zealand and Thailand where sales growth have also multiplied. Many buyers have been impressed by the sporty and versatile vehicle which has a fresh design, enhanced ergonomics and improved engineering.

“This all-new D-MAX phenomenon that has swept the various markets has been somewhat overwhelming. Needless to say, the attractive design, new and improved features and proven Isuzu reputation contributed significantly towards convincing customers to switch or upgrade to this all-new D-MAX model with its excellent value and a generous suite of features,” he said.

Lower roadtax with 1.9-litre engine size
The 1.9-litre D-MAX Premium with automatic transmission has been the most popular choice, accounting for close to 36% percent of the bookings. Although its 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine, fully compatible with Malaysia biodiesel, has a displacement which is the lowest in the market yet, the actual output is comparable to bigger engines. The engine size also makes the D-MAX popular especially to those in Peninsular Malaysia as the annual roadtax is significantly lower. In fact, 61% of overall sales have been in Peninsular Malaysia, a reverse of the traditional 60:40 balance where East Malaysia absorbed a bigger share of the vehicles.

*Two turbodiesel engine choices for the latest D-MAX. The engines have been tuned to run efficiently on biodiesel sold throughout Malaysia.*

D-MAX X-Terrain – the flagship truck
The new flagship model – the X-Terrain – powered by an improved 3-litre turbodiesel engine that offers significantly more refinement and performance. It accounts for some 17% of the total D-MAX and, despite the higher roadtax applicable, more than half of all the X-Terrain sales have come from Peninsular Malaysia.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems include Rear Cross Traffic Alert which is useful when reversing out of a parking bay as vehicle approaching from either side can be detected even though the driver’s view may be obstructed.

Passenger car features in comfortable cabin
Part of the reason, apart from having comparable features to a passenger car, is the comfort and refinement in the cabin. The superior handling both on and off road also make it particularly popular with lifestyle buyers. And safety too is not forgotten as Isuzu has provided Advanced Driving Assistance Systems to help the driver avoid accidents or reduce the effects of collisions if they cannot be avoided.

While the all-new Isuzu D-Max has made inroads into the lifestyle segment with its appealing new design and ergonomics, 81% of new owners have stated that they would utilize their trucks for both work too, underlining the inherently robust nature of Isuzu products.

“The response to this new model has been extremely positive considering the limited opportunities `prospects have had to fully experience the new model due to the strict movement controls and safety protocols. Our current aim is to ensure the smooth, safe and timely delivery of vehicles to our customers despite the various administrative and logistical concerns faced domestically and globally,” said Mr. Suzuki.

To find out more about why the latest D-MAX is a true game-changer and the variety of variants available to suit different requirements and budgets, visit the Isuzu D-MAX website at pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my or their Facebook page.

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia contributes Triton to INSAF Malaysia

Non-profit organisations (NGOs) carry out a lot of work which involves travelling to and in areas where the roads may be poor, or may not exist. Typically, they will bring various forms of aid, especially food for those who are victims of poverty or natural disasters. INSAF Malaysia is one such NGO which runs several programs to transport food items.

To help them with their mission, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia recently contributed a Triton 4×4 pick-up truck to INSAF Malaysia. The pick-up truck, a popular model in the market, will be useful for the distribution of food bank, lunch box and rice bags to orphanages and welfare homes, as well as ‘Meals on Wheels’ where food is distributed to old folks who have been abandoned or live alone. The NGO also builds shelter homes for those hit by natural disasters and urgently need a roof above their heads.

Promoting sustainable economy, society and environment
“Our CSR vision for this year is ‘Inspiring Lives Today for a Greater Future’. While our missions are to implement CSR activities that provides aid to support underprivileged children, and to collaborate with NGOs in promoting a sustainable economy, society and environment. So when we found out that INSAF Malaysia’s humanitarian efforts is constantly striving for voluntarily action, we want to support their work by contributing a Triton pick-up truck in hopes that the NGO can go beyond the distance and to help more underprivileged families,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

After receiving the Triton on behalf of INSAF Malaysia, its President and Founder, Ishak Bin Abdul Kadir, said: “We have been witnessing a dangerous trend from the number of people suffering from malnutrition and food insecurity, especially during this pandemic. Hunger is on the rise in Malaysia as we’ve seen lot of breadwinners lose their source of income which leads to the inability to put food on the table. We are doing all that we can to make sure children or families don’t go to bed hungry hence we are so glad to have companies like Mitsubishi Motors reach out to us to offer help. The contribution of the Triton pick-up truck is timely, practical and very much appreciated.”

Popular pick-up truck
The Triton provided is one of the six variants available, all imported from Thailand in CBU (completely built-up form). The model has been among the popular pick-up trucks in the Malaysian market for many years. Early last month, the Athlete version was introduced which takes over from the Adventure X as the flagship of the range. In Peninsular Malaysia, prices start from RM100,200 for the variants with 4×4 and RM79,890 with 4×2.

Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my to know more about the Triton, and the locations of authorised dealerships.

Mitsubishi Triton Athlete takes over as flagship of range from Adventure X

XPANDER MPV keeps Mitsubishi Motors among top 3 in non-national segment

While official industry sales data for April 2021 has not been released by the Malaysia Automotive Association, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) believes that its strong sales performance during the month would put it among the top 3 positions in the non-national brand rankings for the fourth consecutive month.

The brand’s sales have been on an upward trajectory since the year began and April saw a historical high with 1,872 vehicles sold. The major contributor was the XPANDER MPV which accounted for 52% of the total sales volume. Since being launched in the Malaysian market, MMM has collected more than 10,000 bookings for the model which is assembled in Pekan, Pahang.

Increased XPANDER production
“We are very pleased that the Mitsubishi XPANDER sales remain healthy and its demand is ahead of the number of units supplied. Despite the challenges we are facing with the recently announced Movement Control Order (MCO) or even with the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) prior to MCO, we are continuing our best efforts to meet with the strong demand for the XPANDER by increasing our production capacity while maintaining a high level of product quality,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.

Triton maintains strong position
The Triton pick-up truck is the other strong seller in the range locally, maintaining a market share close to 20%. The company delivered 680 units in April. including 142 units of the new Triton Athlete.

The Triton Athlete was launched in early April as the flagship of the pick-up range, taking over from the Adventure X variant. It is powered by a 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel engine which produces 181 ps/430 Nm. Priced from RM141,500 (without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia), it comes with a factory warranty of 5 years, or maximum of 200,000 kms after registration.

“Although there was a decline in many economic sectors and the environmental sentiments starts to take a toll on people caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are relieved to see our sales remain optimistic and constantly moving towards a positive direction. We are aware that a large number of our customers aim to purchase their cars before the SST exemption expires by end of June. Despite the challenges of supply constraints, Mitsubishi Motors is working our best to meet the expectation of our customers on the delivery preference,” Mr. Shinnishi added.

Besides the XPANDER and Triton, MMM also sells the Outlander SUV which is also assembled locally at the Tan Chong plant in Kuala Lumpur. It is available in two variants with a choice of 2-litre of 2.5-litre engines.

Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my to know more about Xpander and other Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia.

Hyundai’s first Sport Adventure Vehicle (aka pick-up truck) – the Santa Cruz (w/VIDEO)

This seems to be the month of the pick-up truck (at least for readers in Malaysia) as we have yet another new model to tell you about, following the new Nissan Navara and Isuzu D-MAX. This one is from Hyundai Motor, which has never before offered a modern pick-up truck, although it has had light commercial vehicles with a flat bed at the back.

Santa Cruz is the name of Hyundai’s pick-up truck which it refers to as a ‘Sport Adventure Vehicle’ (BMW refers to its SUVs as Sports Activity Vehicles) and it comes after some 20 years of internal debate. As far back as the early 2000s, the company was looking for a single vehicle for the ASEAN region, and like Ford, it saw big numbers of a pick-up truck. However, it never went on to develop a model until now.

Monocoque, not chassis frame
With the Santa Cruz, the focus market seems to be the USA which is the largest market in the world for such vehicles. And like the Honda Ridgeline, the platform is a monocoque type with a unitary structure like a passenger car; typical pick-up truck construction uses a chassis frame. The Honda has been around for some 15 years, sold mostly in North America, and is currently in its second generation so the approach probably has some validity.

Hyundai doesn’t highlight the monocoque structure, perhaps because it could be perceived as a weakness as chassis frames are tougher, or maybe customers just won’t care anyway – the same way that today’s SUV buyers are not too bothered by not having AWD. Instead, it elaborates on the driving dynamics of the vehicle which can be expected to be better than traditional pick-ups.

Big engines for US market
As the primary market is to be North America, a big engine is no problem and a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder direct-injection unit is available with or without turbocharging. The former produces around 190 bhp/244 Nm while the turbocharged unit generates 275+ bhp/420 Nm. Like most of Hyundai’s models, it is fitted with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission which is the company’s own development.

There is AWD with a system called HTRAC, a multi-mode system providing an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles. The system has a wide range of torque distribution variability, tuned for conditions such as straight-line acceleration, medium and high-speed cornering, and hill starts.

Smaller than a Toyota Hilux
Compared to a Toyota Hilux double cab, the Santa Cruz is a small vehicle as it is 4970 mm in length and 1905 mm in width, while the Toyota is 5325 mm in overall length and 1855 mm wide. The wheelbase is also 80 mm shorter, so the Santa Cruz is small by American pick-up standards.

The size of the vehicle was probably influenced by the target buyers which are mainly in urban areas, so a more compact size would be appreciated. Hyundai’s studies found that ,any of these potential customers carry gear which would be more convenient to store in the large open bed of a truck, than an enclosed SUV.

The Santa Cruz has therefore been designed to offer versatile transportation that is equally flexible for urban, adventure, occupational or even home improvement gear. To keep the cargo safe, there is a lockable tonneau cover as well as a hidden bed storage.

Dual cockpit design like a car
The interior of the Santa Cruz is designed like a passenger car with an enveloping dual-cockpit design that encapsulates each passenger. There is a rugged undertone to the cabin, with a modern the technical ambience that appeals to those who appreciate cutting-edge technologies in their daily lives. Under the rear seats is storage space to supplement the space on the open bed.

The Santa Cruz was primarily developed in the Korean carmaker’s American design studio and to emphasise that, the rear tail lamps are embossed with tiny ‘Designed in California’ wording. The new model will be made in Hyundai’s factory in America, with deliveries starting in the second half of this year.

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors has a wide range of models already and we hear that some more are coming, but it is very unlikely the Santa Cruz will be one of them. The model will probably be only lefthand drive and with already established players in the segment, it would be hard for a newcomer to attract enough buyers to support a business case to sell it.

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