SsangYong SUT-1 Makes Production Debut At Frankfurt

2012 SSANGYONG SUT-1

SsangYong's new fighter for the budget-end of the pickup market has arrived, with the debut in Frankfurt of the 2012 SsangYong SUT-1. 

The unveiling of the production-ready SUT-1 follows its appearance in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

Entering as a replacement for the slow-selling Actyon Sports, SsangYong will be banking on its new 2.0 litre diesel engine and the SUT-1's more conventional styling to boost its appeal with tradies.

Mechanical

The Euro 5-compliant 2.0 litre diesel produces 114kW and 360Nm of torque, with peak torque available between 1500 and 2800rpm. 

Fuel consumption figures are still to be revealed, but buyers will have the choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. A part-time four-wheel-drive system is standard.

The SUT-1 gets double-wishbone suspension up front and a five-link arrangement at the rear.

SsangYong says the SUT-1 is similar in size to the Actyon Sports, measuring 4990mm long (Toyota Hilux extended cab: 5035mm), 1910mm wide and 1790mm tall, riding on a 3060mm wheelbase.

Kerb weight is listed at between 1873 and 1995kg, with a gross vehicle weight between 2640 and 2740kg.

Features

Depending on the spec, the SUT-1 is equipped with power-adjusted and heated front seats, leather upholstery and leather steering wheel, automatic air conditioning and cruise control.

There is also power-folding rear-view mirrors, an electrochromatic internal mirror, power windows, steering-mounted audio controls, Bluetooth and a trip computer.

In the looks department, the SUT-1 lists 16 to 18-inch wheel options, daytime running lights and a sunroof.

Safety features include dual airbags, electronic stability control, disc brakes all-round and an ultra-rigid frame construction.

Australia

Local details have still to be confirmed, however SsangYong Australia GM Jeff Barber is confident the SUT-1 will perform well in the busy ute market when it arrives.

"Australia is the fourth largest market in the world for utes and it is a very crowded and competitive sector however with the next generation Ssangyong Actyon I believe we will have a vehicle that will become a real force in the dual cab ute category."