2011 Isuzu Trucks South Africa preview and specification

2011 Isuzu Trucks South Africa preview and specification
Aston Martin Car News: http://car-wheelx.blogspot.com/search/label/aston%20martin

Mazda B: The Truck

Mazda B-Series, Like the Ford Ranger.

Since the Mazda merged with the Ford Ranger platform in 1994, the B-Series has steadily declined in both sales and public interest as the compact truck coped with threats to its segment. As the 1990s roared on and the full-size truck segment emerged as a hot area for automakers, small trucks became increasingly marginalized as Ford, GM, and Dodge offered larger variations with room for the whole family, for not much more money. With the B-Series now built on the rapidly-aging Ranger platform, the little truck struggled on an uneven playing field, even as the rest of world enjoyed a burgeoning small truck market.
Source

2009 Truck of the Year: Ford F-150

This is it. Crunch time. The 2009 Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram are rolling onto the market like a pair of gigantic craps dice, and the companies tossing them are each betting big on this game. Unfortunately, the rules changed while these dice were in mid-air. Fuel prices skyrocketed, the economy tanked, consumer confidence evaporated, and folks who once chose half-ton pickups more for their Marlboro-Man-image-enhancing qualities than for their towing or hauling capabilities are shopping elsewhere.

Ford claims it sells more of its half-ton pickups to work and commercial customers than its competitors do, and Ford predicts this segment will grow to 45 percent of F-150 sales. Toward that end, the truck's fully boxed chassis is further fortified to provide best-in-class rigidity, payload capacity (up to 3030 pounds), and tow ratings (up to 11,300 pounds). As such, the new F-150 is well positioned to capture contractors migrating down-market out of Super-Dutys to save money and gas (did we mention that a new six-speed automatic, a lighter, more aerodynamic cab, and other tweaks boost fuel economy by 12 percent with the 5.4-liter?).

Ford claims payload and towing numbers like that simply can't be had with a coil-sprung rear axle, so it stuck with leafs but made them longer to smooth the ride and wider with new mounting hardware to improve lateral rigidity and roll control. The ride doesn't quite match Dodge's, but the chassis engineers managed to tune the steering for pleasing heft and remarkable accuracy that had many judges lauding the F-150s for feeling smaller and nimbler than their Dodge counterparts. Lateral grip of 0.70 g for both Fords bested all but the feathery base Dodge and Suzuki, and our rear-drive SXT scored the best stop at 133 feet from 60 mph (the three-ton Lariat needed 144 feet).

Status-conscious contractors will have eight F-150 models from which to choose (including the forthcoming SVT Raptor), which Detroit editor Todd Lassa reckons is "about four too many," adding, "If this Lariat is the third truck from the top, how much of a boudoir must the King Ranch and Platinum interiors be?" Judges praised the low noise levels and interior materials quality, though some found the design cartoonishly macho. Still, handy features like the Tailgate Step, Box Side Step, a stowable bed-extender, and rear seats that fold up with one hand to reveal a broad, flat load floor help tally a strong superiority score.

SsangYong Actyon Sports now with 6-speed automatic!

Competitive Supreme Sdn Bhd (CSSB), the sole importer and distributor for SsangYong Motor Company of Korea has introduced the first 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Sports Utility Truck in Malaysia by upgrading its Actyon Sports to 6-Speed Automatic.

According to Melvinder Singh, the General Manager of CSSB, “The gearbox is electronically controlled and the software has been designed to maximise the characteristics of the XDi 200 XVT power plant. An Artificial Intelligence program constantly monitors your driving style and adjusts the transmissions characteristics to maximise performance according to your driving pattern, which in turn optimises fuel efficiency and of course driving pleasure. The transmission is linked to the engine via a lock-up torque converter which minimizes energy loss and further improves fuel efficiency”. Melvinder also added that sales of the Actyon Sports had been very encouraging since its introduction on the 6^th of June 2007 and is optimistic that the new 6-Speed Automatic gearbox would further enhance sales.

The Actyon Sports 6-Speed Automatic transmission is equipped with SsangYong's ingenious dual Thumb-Tronic controls and gear changes can be made via the buttons on the steering wheel or on the gear shift lever. It was developed and manufactured by Drivetrain Systems International in Albury, New South Wales, Australia.

The Actyon Sports 6-Speed Automatic is powered by the XDi 200 XVT engine. The two-litre high performance 3rd generation common rail turbo intercooler direct injection diesel engine that delivers 141ps (104 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 310 Nm (31.6 kg.m) of torque from 1,800 ~ 2,700 rpm. Maximum torque is provided over the widest possible rev range for better acceleration and overtaking performance. This is currently the most powerful two-litre diesel engine in its class and its performance easily rivals competitors with much larger engine capacities of up to three litres. It is also very economical and uses only 6.2 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the Extra Urban test cycle. The annual road tax (Private & Company Registration) for the Actyon Sports is also the lowest in its class at RM439.20 as a result of its two litre engine capacity. Additionally, customers who register their Actyon Sports as private vehicles will also enjoy the annual government rebate of RM625.

The Actyon Sports has an electronic shift on the fly (2-High, 4-High and 4-Low) part time four-wheel drive system that offers good on-road and off-road handling.

Apart from the 6-Speed Automatic transmission, the Actyon Sports now comes with a number of new features:

• Chrome front grill.
  
• A sporty integrated Shark’s Fin style radio antenna.
• Chrome centre air vents.
• Adjustable centre air vents.
• Driver’s left foot rest.
• Intergrated rear seat belt buckles with storage pockets.
  
  

Customers will also be pleased to know that there is no price increase for the revised 2008 Actyon Sports despite numerous improvements. The 6-Speed Automatic is priced at RM89,000.00 for the Standard package. The Actyon Sports 6-Speed is now available for sale and customers can view and test-drive the vehicle at all CSSB branches and showrooms.

The Actyon Sports is also fitted with convenient features such as an 8-way power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support, tilt adjustable steering wheel, front centre arm rest, height & tilt adjustable front head rests, electric folding door mirrors, a dash fit audio system with controls on the steering wheel, speed sensing door locks, three rear headrests and a rear centre arm rest to name just a few, it is truly designed with Luxury and Convenience in mind.

Its approach to rear seat comfort with a more relaxed rear seat angle of 29 degrees will definitely deliver a distinct advantage. The five-link rear axle with coil springs & dampers and double wishbone front suspension deliver excellent ride comfort and driving stability in comparison to its leaf sprung rivals.

The utilisation of space in the Actyon Sports is also excellent. It is easy to get in and out of thanks to its SUV like ride height and extra large doors. It also offers excellent legroom for all occupants. The deep & wide cargo deck and load bearing cargo door make it a better combination work and family vehicle than most.

There are more options for accessories now which include a full canopy or a sports rear deck cover, the rear D-pillar and 18” alloy-wheels with 255/60 tyres for a more sporty look. Other options include cruise control and leather seats.

Related posts:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/10/driven-ssangyong-actyon-sports-xdi-200.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/06/new-ssangyong-actyon-sports.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/04/new-ssangyong-actyon.html

Mitsubishi Triton 3.2 and Triton Lite

Click on images to enlarge

Catering to the growing popularity of pick-up trucks, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) added to its Triton pick-up truck line-up with the new Triton 3.2-litre 4x4 automatic and the Triton Lite 2.5-litre 4x2 manual. The two new variants will join the current line-up consisting of the Triton 2.5-litre 4x4 with automatic and manual transmissions.

Backed by a string of successes worldwide and its ever reliable racing heritage, the new Triton 3.2 and Triton Lite are distinguished by its revolutionary strong profile and aggressive looks that defies the conventional styling of a pick-up truck to offer passenger car-like comfort without compromising on its durability as a pick-up.

Reflecting a bold and stylish exterior, the new Triton 3.2 aggressive styling is distinguished by its chrome nose grill with stainless steel mesh coupled with a front bumper extender. It is the most powerful pick-up truck in its class and the Triton has the most spacious rear cabin space in its class.

Rallying power from the newly developed 3.2-litre Direct Injection Diesel Hyper Common Rail Turbo Intercooler engine, the new Triton 3.2 provides increased power of 160bhp at 3,500rpm and higher torque of 343Nm at 2,000rpm. Additionally, the new Triton 3.2 comes equipped with built-in immobilizer, automatic air conditioner and window visor.

Meeting the need for a spacious pick-up truck that offers versatility for commercial or personal use, the new Triton Lite is powered by 2.5-litre diesel SOHC 8-Valve engine, an engine that is economically efficient, durable and reliable. Boasting superior fuel efficiency, the new Triton Lite produces 75bhp at 4200rpm and 149Nm at 2,500 rpm.

The new Triton Lite achieves the turning radius of only 5.7 meters, the smallest turning radius among all pick-ups. Offering the most spacious rear cabin space in its class with intuitive compartment features, the new Triton Lite provides sedan-like refinement at a competitive price tag.

Speaking to the media at the official launch ceremony recently, Mr Keizo Ono, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia said, “Widely known for its remarkable handling, superior engine performance, radical and futuristic exterior styling coupled with a spacious cabin that provides car-like comfort, the Triton has indeed revolutionised the pick-up scene. The pick-up market has evolved much over the last few years and hence we believe there is a strong demand for a pick-up truck that exceeds the refinement of a conventional truck.”

“We are thrilled to expand the portfolio of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in Malaysia with the latest introduction of the new Triton 3.2 which is aimed at fulfilling the market’s demand for a stylish and powerful pick-up truck while the Triton Lite is affordable and fuel efficient.”
“In view of current rising petrol and diesel prices, the timely launch of the Triton Lite today will meet the market’s demand for a fuel efficient vehicle. The Triton Lite is light on your wallet and even lighter on fuel, thanks to its affordable price tag and good fuel efficiency,” continued Mr Ono.

Last year, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia’s total pick-up sales volume saw a notable growth with 3,480 units of L200 and Triton sold, an increase of 59.6 per cent from 2006. This continuous upward trend made Mitsubishi Motors’ pick-up the second most popular pick-up truck in the country with a 15.7 per cent share in the segment last year. “Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia will continue our concerted effort to strengthen the Mitsubishi Motors brand and we are confident that the introduction of the latest variants will shine through with its distinctive product value and competitive pricing as we target to achieve higher growth,” continued Mr Ono.

“Currently sold in over 140 countries worldwide, and since its launch in Malaysia, the award-winning Triton has emerged to be one of the most popular selling pick-up trucks. To create the Triton, an extensive testing was conducted to collect data both in the engineering labs at Mitsubishi Motors Corporation and on the courses of the grueling Dakar Rally. This has resulted in new innovations like flowing bodylines associated with the Dakar Rally-winning Pajero Evolution,” said Mr Ryujiro Kobashi, General Manager of Asia & ASEAN A Department, Overseas Operations Group Headquarters of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation of Japan.

Built on years of engineering expertise and tested on the gruelling grounds of one of the world’s toughest race, the Dakar Rally-honed Triton has earn praises and has been feted with many accolades worldwide and locally. This includes the Pick-up Truck of the Year award at the New Straits Times/ Maybank Car of the Year Awards 2007 and for the second year in succession, the Triton also claimed the top honours in the Pick-up of the Year category of the Autocar ASEAN Car of the Year Awards 2007. In its continuous commitment to quality and reliability, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is offering a 3-year or 100,000km warranty and a 3-year or 60,000km Maintenance Free Program for the new Triton 3.2 and a 3-year or 100,000km Warranty for the new Triton Lite. Owners are assured of an excellent after-sales support and are provided with “Mitsubishi Assist 24” card which offers a host of privileges including 24 hour roadside assistance.

The new Triton 3.2 4x4 automatic and Triton Lite 2.5 4x2 manual is priced at RM97,041.50 and RM58,129.80 respectively (on the road without insurance).

In Sabah, price of Triton 3.2 4x4 automatic is RM97,280.40 while the Triton 2.5 4x2 manual at RM59,865.20.

Over in Sarawak, the Triton 3.2 4x4 automatic is available for RM97, 509.00 while the Triton 2.5 4x2 manual is tagged at RM59,618.30 (all on the road without insurance).

Colours available for the new Triton 3.2 are White Solid, Cool Silver Metallic and Black Metallic whereas the new Triton Lite comes in four colours, White Solid, Cool Silver Metallic, Red Metallic and Black Metallic.

Related posts:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2008/05/new-mitsubishi-triton-variants-coming_22.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/06/drive-review-mitsubishi-triton-25l-di-d.html

2007 All-New Ford Ranger

By Dr Long

Making a centre-stage appearance at the 2007 Bangkok Motor Show’ Ford display area, is the bigger and more imposing all new Ford Ranger. The frontal visage is bolder now, with more presence, not unlike the Toyota Hilux. Its 2.5L turbodiesel engine is uprated - 143bhp @ 3,500rpm and 330Nm @ a low 1,800rpm - to wrest ‘The most powerful pick-up’ bragging tagline from the current leader in 2.5L pick-up class, the Mitsubishi Triton (in Malaysia).

For the first time in a diesel pick-up truck of “small” engine capacity, a 5-speed automatic transmission is available for the new Ranger thus enabling better driving flexibility, as well as improved fuel economy.

Rumours are that the replacement model will be launched next month over here in Malaysia. Most are guessing that the new Ford Ranger will be priced close to the Mitsubishi Triton, maybe even marginally cheaper, being a CKD (locally assembled) model.