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

New Mitsubishi Triton variants coming soon to Malaysia

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, the exclusive distributor of Mitsubishi Motors passenger cars and commercial vehicles in Malaysia will launch two new variants of the popular Triton pick-up truck this June.

Backed by rally-proven heritage, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Sdn Bhd is confident of increasing its pick-up truck market share with the new 3.2-litre 4x4 automatic and 2.5-litre 4x2 manual variants.

The pick-up truck sales volume saw a remarkable growth with 3,480 units sold in 2007, up 59.6 per cent from 2006, making Mitsubishi Motors' pick-up truck the second most popular pick-up truck in the country with a 15.7 per cent share in the segment. "The two new variants of the Triton are expected to appeal to a wider market – the 3.2-litre 4x4 automatic is the most powerful pick-up truck in its class while 2.5-litre 4x2 manual variant is light on fuel and affordable. Meeting the needs of high-performance enjoyment and off-road ruggedness, Malaysians can choose the best variant to suit their needs – be it for daily use or weekend drive," said Mr Keizo Ono, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

Prior to the official launch of the new variants, the Triton 3.2-litre 4x4 is estimated at RM100, 000 and the 2.5-litre 4x2 at RM60, 000. The current available model - Triton 4x4 automatic and manual which are equipped with 2.5-litre direct-injection common-rail intercooled turbodiesel engine are priced at RM91,782.00 and RM86,782.00 respectively (on the road with insurance).

The Triton pick-up truck has garnered immense response since its launch in November 2006. It has earned praises for its exceptional handling, best in its class engine performance, futuristic exterior styling and comfort of a luxury sedan. It was awarded the Pick-up Truck of the Year award at the New Straits Times/ Maybank Car of the Year Awards 2007. 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.

Related post:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/06/drive-review-mitsubishi-triton-25l-di-d.html

New Nissan Frontier Navara

By Dr Long

Staying close to this year’s 28th Bangkok International Motor Show theme of “Drive Thru the Nature” was Nissan’s showcase of its new Frontier Navara, set within tropical shrubs and rainforest montage. Equally green is Nissan’s new 2,488cc common-rail turbodiesel which will set the benchmark for the highest power output of 172bhp @ 4,000rpm and a very twisty 403Nm @ 2,000rpm! In fact, modern turbodiesels are all the rage now in Europe, a truly viable alternative to the more expensive and complex petrol-electric hybrid.

As with the upcoming Ford Ranger (in Malaysia), the new Navara also has that 5-speed automatic option, in addition to a standard 6-speed manual (as pictured below). These transmissions are obviously put into service to better saviour the magnitude and spread of torque available.

Set to start another round of power race among the mainstream truck makers of Ford/Mazda, Mitsubishi, Isuzu and Toyota, the new Navara will definitely be the ‘powerhouse’ benchmark for some time to come. In comparison, the Toyota Hilux has the most dismal output of 102bhp from its 2.5L D-4D. The new Ford Ranger 2.5 makes do with 143bhp @ 3,500rpm and 330Nm starting from 1,800rpm. Mitsubishi will tweak its new Triton from 136bhp to 160bhp, while Isuzu’s D-Max will get a boost for its 3.0L turbodiesel to punch out 145bhp, a significant hike from its current 130bhp. Toyota is reported to be planning to substitute the 2.5 to a 3.0L D-4D capable of 164bhp. The horsepower mania among the pick-ups is definitely on!

What remains unclear though is whether all these awesome figures are accessible for trucks enthusiasts in Malaysia. The much-professed fuel quality (read: low sulphur) upgrade at the pump has reached a dead end, with petroleum companies locked in a stalemate with the government, leaving both parties unwilling to pick up the tab for further stages of purification at the refineries. Until then, it is unlikely that we will see a Frontier Navara churning out 172bhp, running on antiquated, inferior grade Euro-1 diesel. Secondly, local distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has not announced any further addition to its line up of the Teana, Tiida sedan/hatchback and Grand Livina launches for 2007.

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.