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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://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/10/driven-ssangyong-actyon-sports-xdi-200.html
http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/06/new-ssangyong-actyon-sports.html
http://newbiecars.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://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2011/10/new-mitsubishi-triton-variants-coming_22.html
http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/06/drive-review-mitsubishi-triton-25l-di-d.html

Tried and Tested: SsangYong Actyon Sports XDi 200

By Dr Long

Click on images to enlarge
I must admit I was really impressed (somehow!) by looks of the new SsangYong Actyon SUV at the last Bangkok Motor Show. My close pal � a big time Toyota freak - finds it hideous even though its miles better looking than the knights-and-armour themed Kyron sibling. In short, this is one vehicle that you can easily say �I think I�ll pass� if you can�t get beyond its unique (some would say odd) looks.

Imagine my curiosity when SsangYong�s sole importer and distributor in Malaysia, Competitive Supreme Sdn. Bhd. launched the Actyon - sans the SUV-coupe�s rump � just a few months back. They even advertise their first pick-up, called Actyon Sports, with a somewhat ambitious tagline: �The Luxury Sports Utility Truck�. Well, their marketing guys may have gotten a little overboard with the tag �luxury� and �sports�, but the truck is surprisingly good and well-appointed with many first(s)-in-class, provided you could digest that shark nose and steely stare of those slanty-AND-rounded headlamps.

I am saying it�s good because of the grunty amount of turbo-diesel torque from a low 2000rpm that shoves the 2tonne vehicle meaningfully. Though the 4-speed gearbox has a strange initial lag before it takes off, the truck can be quick once it gets going. Overtaking manouvres are a breeze and I found myself shooting past other vehicles quicker than in my supercharged E-Class! In-gear acceleration is impressive as I found that gears hardly need to downshift from the 3rd or 4th cog.

SsangYong�s turbodiesel lump, dubbed XDi 200, is really superb, with that Garrett variable geometry turbocharger plus 3rd generation common-rail fuel injection. The Mercedes-Benz derived oil burner is silent, responsive and powerful. For those who absolutely must know the tech figures: they are 141ps @ 4000rpm and 310Nm @ 1800 � 2700rpm. The fuel gauge sank slowly after I had traveled interstate, on highways and even ventured into my dad-in-law�s rubber and durian plantations! Much as I tried to burn up the full-tank of diesel, I had failed miserably. (Something I had achieved easily over one other weekend in another brand of truck).

Mostly the ride is supple albeit a little too wobbly due to its body-on-ladder frame structure, I guessed. Very minimal road noise, silent cabin and a really cool (literally!) auto-climate A/C scored further points for this new SsangYong. Vibrations from the diesel engine were not palpable on the door trim, steering and front headrests. Soft touch surfaces are generously splashed on the dashboard, door trim, centre-console lid and armrests. Much has been said about the first-in-class rear five-link axle with coil-spring suspension, in place of the usual heavier-duty leaf springs. So, does it work for better ride comfort for the rear occupants? Yes and convincingly so.

The rear bench can accommodate three adults in reasonable comfort, while the backrest (with adjustable individual headrests) isn�t as upright as the rest of the pick-ups. However, the coil springs didn�t do much for improved handling as I reckoned the Triton tracks better around corners (especially in '4H' mode). That said, my advice is to leave the Actyon SUT in �2H� drive mode for all tarmac outings. You�d get a better balance with just RWD propulsion and hence more neutral handling. To be fair, I must say the Actyon Sports is a very stable and capable highway cruiser. It will breach highway speed limits easily and will soldier on to near-190km/h if you absolutely squeeze the throttle on that longer bit of deserted road. Interestingly, both gas and brake pedals appear to be suspiciously similar to corresponding items found in three-pointed star models. While we are at the driver's footwell here, I did find the absence of a proper footrest tiring on longer drives.

The other little discovery was that the suspension may have been made to ride better above 80km/h or so, because going over speed strips can be rather jiggly at lower rolling velocity. My suspicion is the lack of tightness the body � especially at the flat bed part � bonds with the ladder chassis. While parked, closing the door hard can even bring about a little scuttle of the body sideways. I could still recall testing the behemoth Stavic MPV a little over 3 years ago (for another local auto mag), but I didn�t feel so much of such �wobbly� sensation. Not satisfied, I had briefly checked out the Coupe version of the Actyon at SsangYong�s Bangsaria showroom. I found that the SUV �cocoon� bodyshell held up better against this door-closing-test. Ditto for the SsangYong Kyron SUV, by the way.

Well, I guess paying RM133k vs RM93k does have its additional perks. For what�s it worth, the SsangYong Actyon SUT (Sports Utility Truck) is definitely worth a second look for its refined, powerful but frugal engine, if not for its brutish and unique visage or executive sedan-like cabin specifications.

Related posts:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/06/new-ssangyong-actyon-sports.html
http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/04/new-ssangyong-actyon.html

You may want to read this:

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

Isuzu D-Max Facelift 2.5 & 3.0

Due to the war heating up in the pick-up truck segment, Isuzu�s D-Max has undergone a facelift for 2007. The tough pick-up now sports a refreshed frontal visage plus some sheet metal changes. Interestingly, this is the third �nip-and-tuck� since its introduction in Malaysia.

Striking changes this time around are sharper looking headlamp which utilises an ellipsoidal projector lens (3.0L D-Max only) and bolder-flared wheel arches. The new headlamps is claimed to be 14% brighter than regular multi-reflector items. At the front, the grille cowling and bumper appears more unitary and integrated as a whole, rendering a cleaner, more aerodynamic frontal profile. The bottom smooth-surfaced steel sump acts as a wind deflector, while protecting the oil sump and other mechanical parts. The rear has a redesigned bumper as well as tail lights incorporating clear lenses now.

Apart from the projector headlamps, another first-in-class for the new D-Max is the electroluminescent (EL) meter panel (3.0L version only), which also provides trip information and outside temperature. Another first in the truck segment is its keyless-entry feature plus key-encoded immobiliser for additional security against vehicle theft.

The facelifted D-Max�s 3.0L engine now has what Isuzu called �i-TEQ Super Commonrail� fuel system. Coded 4JJ1-TC, this long-stroke engine replaces the previous 4JH1-TC unit. The new engine has an identical displacement of 2999cc but features a new DOHC 16-valve aluminium cylinder head for improved breathing and hence better combustion efficiency. The twin camshafts are chain and gear-driven for a lifetime of maintenance-free operation and the cams themselves drive roller rockers for quieter and smoother operations. Power of the engine is a respectable 100 kW/136ps at 3400rpm, 4.2% higher than the old engine. Torque figures remain the same with 280Nm for the manual versions and 294 Nm for the automatic but the manner in which the engine peaks is what makes the new engine stands apart. Maximum torque is available between 1200rpm and 3400 rpm for the manual version and 1400rpm and 3000rpm for the automatic version, so driveability is always good with appreciable low to mid-range torque always on tap. Despite this, the new 3.0L commonrail turbo diesel is claimed to be 19% more fuel efficient than the old powerplant.

The 2.5-litre 4JA1-L engine however, remains unchanged from before and is offered only as a 4x2 with manual transmission. This variant is targeted at outdoor entrepreneurs who want nothing more than a dependable, durable and low maintenance workhorse.

The 2007 D-Max also comes equipped with larger front disc brake calipers � 45.5mm now from 42.8mm before. Such upsizing of calipers enable shorter braking distances and also better pedal feel. The brake servo is also bigger now, at 9 inches in diameter to increase braking force. The 3.0L version is fitted with ABS and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) for added braking stability, whatever the load. A limited-slip differential (LSD) is standard on all 4WD variants for greater stability and control in slippery conditions.

The facelifted 2007 D-Max is available in a choice of five colours: Starry Black Mica, Angelic White Solid, Mercury Silver, Eclipse Blue and Gamma Grey.

Prices of the new D-Max (OTR inclusive of insurance, for Peninsula Malaysia) are as follows:

2.5 Manual 4X2: RM71,475.30
3.0 Manual 4X4: RM89,776.30
3.0 Auto 4X4: RM96,758.30

Drive Review: Mitsubishi Triton 2.5L DI-D

By Dr Long

Imposing, modern and trendy: that�s my first impression of the Red Metallic tester unit collected from Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM). Yes, I have never imagined describing a pick-up in such a manner, until the Triton came along, as replacement model for the Mitsubishi L200 aka Mitsubishi Storm.

You�d probably have heard this half a dozen times or more by now. Whether its Gundam, Star Wars� Storm Trooper or even Darth Vader�s helmet-inspired frontal stare is appropriate or tough-looking enough for a pick-up, the right hemisphere of my brain deciphers it as something very attractive and desirable. Based on Mitsubishi�s Racing Truck Concept, the Triton sports a colour-coded triangle smack in the middle of the grille, topped off with a distinct tri-diamond chrome emblem. The entire visage, with a pair of inverted slant headlamps, takes its DNA heritage from the Dakar-winning Pajero Evolution�s. Despite the best of intention, opinions has been split among truck enthusiasts and car owners alike, no doubt about that, since its launch more than 6 months ago. The fact that it created a long waiting list for deliveries speaks volume of its general popularity moments after its launch.

External styling is fluid and unconventional, while its non-boxy design infused fresh blood into the pulsing arteries of the truck segment. In practical terms, the shapely rear door aperture was very accommodating for easy ingress and egress. The helicopter cocoon-like upswing of its capacious cabin towards the posterior, serves up more space and legroom, apart from being more aesthetically refreshing and appealing � curvy rear quarter windows et al. All the smoothen edges, soft curves, clean lines and neat sheet-metal surfacing are rendered so well, that it looks rather futuristic and even classy to a certain extent. We happened to be at one hypermarket car-park when the wife of one gentleman who retrieved his Perdana V6 (facelift model) remarked: ��the colour of this car is very nice and attractive ��commented the missus much to the chagrin of the husband. To have a workhorse truck (in a brighter shade, of course) drawing such attention � more so not a truly recent newly launched model � is a pleasant compliment indeed.

Frontal cabin space is generous too, with a dashboard design and layout more akin to say, the 7th generation Accord (being lower-slung and in two-tone presentation), making it airy and inviting, unlike those found in utilitarian trucks of yesteryears. Front seats are however, a tad too flat for snug support and desired body hugging when driving around corners. The rear seat while being claimed to be more passenger car-like, still needs to be a little more laid-back, despite the nicely thought-out foldable centre armrest with cupholders. Materials on the dashboard and door trim are a little too �dry� and hard to touch but I suppose they were meant to weather a truck�s harsh daily routine, when called to duty. However, the gear knobs � for the A/T and the 2WD/4WD transfer case - are nicely leather stitched.

The 314Nm on tap from a low 2000rpm spinning from the 2.5L DI-D common-rail turbodiesel is truly palpable. I had the slightly unsettling experience of inducing power oversteer in the wet when I was powering the ladder-frame chassis on just rear-wheel-drive (2H) mode. In one other rainy episode, the front axle even broke traction a little when I was a wee bit too enthusiastic turning a right-hander crossing a traffic junction. Thankfully, I was alone in the Triton then and both were minor slides; with quick lifts of the throttle the lengthy vehicle corrected itself. For the rest of the test period, I had the gear transfer case in 4x4 mode for hard driving and in the rain. Somehow, these subsequent drives in 4H mode felt torqueier, had better road feel and tighter body control. Overall, the Triton�s Hyper Common Rail DOHC 16V Intercooler Turbodiesel was pretty smooth, adequately punchy while mated to an equally refined 4-speed automatic tranny.

Using the 4x4 over a weekend, my family and I swapped our regular sedan for this �bootless� truck. My wife was particularly worried by the absence of a normal boot for our belongings. Sure enough, after we picked up my mother-in-law from the airport, the sky opened up! Though it swallowed up all the luggages plus extra stuff with ease, we found our belongings to be rather exposed and truly at heaven�s mercy. Thank goodness we had plastic sheathed most of the major non-waterproof baggages and boxes. A rear gas-strut aftermarket flatbed cover is a must if I were to own this truck as a family vehicle, I thought to myself. My young kids got accustomed soon enough to the tall ride height which afforded a near tourist-bus-scenic-view of things. In testament to its pliant ride and non-bouncy nature, my rear passengers were pretty quiet during drives over varying road surfaces. At times, the Triton�s rear leaf-spring suspension can be caught a little hard and unyielding over bigger humps, but that�s about it. NVH refinements were good for a vehicle of this segment. Having heard from a close associate of mine that his previous Toyota Harrier 2.4 had irritating wind and road noises at motorway speed, I was especially on a look out for these little �gremlins�. No abnormal whistling wind noises were audible and road rumble at cruising speed was negligible. Even the idling diesel clatter was near absent once you shut the double-lined doors. Truly impressive.

Driving the Triton up hilly B-roads, it behaved more civilised than expected. The pick-up felt a little like a Toyota Innova (similarly ladder-frame truck but turned MPV) except that it has more torque and is 4x4 capable. Slotting the reduction gears to 4H (high range AWD, which can be shifted-on-the-fly at speeds up to 100kph) the car�oops! I meant truck, has lesser tendency to understeer around winding roads hereafter. Its double wishbone independent front suspension allows more faithful tracking into corners. However, the steering � though rack and pinion � had a very lazy demeanour to react to your input. A little slow-witted and dull to turn but the weighting is quite spot on, not overbearing or over-assisted for this two-tonne behemoth. On a minus side, I really disliked the vibrating and �oscillating� gear transfer stalk. Mitsubishi Motors could have used a rotary dial (think facelifted X-Trail or new Ranger A/T) as a 2WD high range(2H)/4WD high range(4H)/ 4WD low range(4L) selector and isolate the driver from such �lack of refinement�. It mars an otherwise saloon-like serene and relaxing cabin.


In the wet, with the Triton in 4H gearings, it was confident wafting over rain-drenched tarmac with ease and conviction. You can feel the improvement in grip at all four corners, more noticeable over the front axle. At night, the instruments panel is plain easy to read in one quick glance. The blue background meters contrasted excellently with its red gauge needles. The onboard computer is placed at the middle of the dash, displaying a digital clock, compass, barometer, average speed as well as fuel consumption and possible range in km for the remaining fuel. It relays these data in both graphic and numerical presentation. The fuel consumption computed for this automatic Triton ranges from best of 9L/100km to 12.5L/100km. While not exactly record-breaking figures for a turbodiesel, these are somewhat admirable and acceptable figures for such healthy power/torque output propelling significantly hefty kerb weight.





Taking the automatic Triton off�road, the dual purpose but road-biased Bridgestone Dueler H/T were up to grips over dirt and mud roads. Uneven, soft ground and rough ridges were ironed over with expected ease. The truck did not require gear reduction to 4L mode since no hardcore off-roading, mud-bath or river crossing were done. Back onto trunk roads, it was a joy to negotiate sweeping bends with body roll well controlled, at sane speeds of course. The rear Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) also contributed to stable composure around corners, especially in 4H drive mode.



Having driven the pick-up over a couple of days, I got acquainted with the tall ride, high vantage-point visibility, body rigidity and nice low-end torque on tap. In fact, the Triton felt like a decent and well-built SUV from Day2 of this test review. With 136bhp tops at 3500rpm, MMC claims a top speed of 175kph for this lifestyle truck. A feat probably not claimed by alternatives from the other camps, even though the Triton is no longer the horsepower king of pick-ups now. Curiosity got the better of me when I attempted 0 � 100kph sprint for this 1.9 tonne vehicle. The average timing acquired was around 15secs, not bad for a diesel double-cab with an auto �box, I reckoned.



Strangely, I was a little reluctant to return the Triton to MMM at the end of the loan period. I never thought that I would grow to like a pick-up this much. Swapping back to my regular executive sedan the same evening, I had found myself weirdly seated-low again and clamouring for the affable and addictive low-end torque of a turbodiesel. To be fair, I didn�t miss the labourious parallel parking of this 5.1 meter vehicle due to its enormous rear overhang! Nevertheless, I had suffered from withdrawal syndrome, needing a wash-out period, much like a subject in a cohort study of a pharmaceutical drug trial. Yet in the end, I can�t help feeling this notion of being able to be cool yet tough, and fashionable�in a Mitsubishi Triton!