pick-up truck Archives

Improved Toyota Hilux to be launched soon, and you can book now

An improved 2020 Toyota Hilux will soon be launched in Malaysia and bookings are now being accepted by authorised Toyota outlets for the new model which is assembled in Malaysia.

Customers have a choice of 5 variants with the Double Cab 2.4 E A/T being a new addition. The new Double Cab 2.8 Rogue A/T replaces the current Double Cab 2.8 Black Edition, while the new Double Cab 2.4 V A/T is an upgrade from the current Double Cab 2.4 L-Edition. For those who prefer a manual transmission, the Double Cab 2.4 G and Single Cab 2.4 will still be available.

Seven colour choices are available – Bronze Mica Metallic (new colour), Crimson Spark Red Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Phantom Brown Metallic, Medium Silver Metallic, Silver Metallic and Super White II. The Hilux Single Cab is available only in a Solid White colour.

The estimated prices start from RM98,000, with Hilux 2.8 Rogue estimated to cost RM148,880. UMW Toyota Motor is offering a RM4,000 rebate for those who are ‘early birds’ om buying the Hilux Double Cab 2.8 Rogue AT 4×4 (for sales in 2020).

New design
Various styling elements of the new Hilux have been redesigned, such as the front bumper, grille, and foglamp bezel. For the flagship Hilux Double Cab 2.8 Rogue, there’s a new bonnet moulding and skidplate while the base variants get new designs for the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the notable change for the flagship variant is a new interior trim design, new meter design, addition of illuminated door trim garnish and a new key cover design. The base variants get a new meter design with additional information on the Multi Information Display (MID).

Current Toyota Hilux assembled in Malaysia

Improved performance
The 1G-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine has received improvements which raise power output to 204 ps at 3,400 rpm (27 ps increase), while maximum torque is 500 Nm between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm (50 Nm increase).

Although the engine is more powerful, fuel consumption has not gone up, it is claimed. In fact, fuel efficiency has improved due to the use of a 2-stage oil pump that can optimally switch the oil pressure. Additionally, a water-cooled double-pipe type pre-EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler has also been installed to optimize the EGR gas temperature.

*Toyota 1G-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine*

The power-assisted rack and pinion steering system for the new Hilux (except for the Single Cab variant) now has a Variable Flow Control system which has reduced demand on the power steering pump, benefitting fuel economy. At the same time, the driver will find enhanced steering feel with more natural handling in different speed ranges. The feel is said to be lighter at low speeds to make parking manoeuvres easier but becomes heavier at higher speeds to provide a more confident feel.

The new Hilux comes with an Auto Limited Slip Differential (LSD) which aids traction by using the traction control system (TRC) to control braking and engine output when one of the rear wheels start to spin. The Auto LSD system is available only when in the High range and in 2WD at speeds up to 50 km/h.

*How the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) works in the Toyota Hilux*

Toyota Safety Sense
Many Toyota models are now getting the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system, a suite of integrated active systems that are intended to assist the driver avoid accidents. The TSS system for the Hilux consists of three systems: Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), with Yaw Assist. These are normally found in passenger vehicles and now Toyota is also offering them in its pick-up.

To locate a Toyota showroom, visit toyota.com.my or call the Toyota FREEPHONE 1- 800-88-TOYOTA (869682).

Lower maintenance costs with Toyota Service Savers packages

No sales tax exemption for pick-up trucks but you can still get savings on the Ford Ranger

When the government announced PENJANA (Pelan Jana Semula Ekonomi Negara), the RM35 billion short-term economic recovery plan, exemption of sales tax for new motor vehicles was among the incentives. However, to the disappointment of those who thought of buying a pick-up truck, the exemption did not cover such vehicles as they are classified as commercial vehicles. Perhaps because the government is giving other incentives to the commercial sector, they are making the exclusion.

Therefore, while passenger vehicles now have reduced prices with sales tax exempted (partial for imported CBU models) and the exemption will be maintained till the end of the year, pick-up truck prices have not changed.

However, if you buy a Ford Ranger, you can still save money at this time because Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) is offering rebates for popular pick-up truck. The offer is for three variants of the WildTrak, with rebates of up to RM7,188.

Those who choose the WildTrak and Ranger XL will receive cash rebates of up to RM7,000, while those who pick the Ranger XLT Plus can enjoy savings of RM7,188 (while stocks last).

“The Ford Ranger line-up continues to appeal to a wide range of customers with its reputation as a capable and versatile pickup that is suited for any purpose, be it work, play or both. By offering these savings, we hope to lighten the financial load for customers who wish to be a proud owner of a tough and versatile Ford Ranger,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

Three choices
The Ranger WildTrak is equipped with the proven 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers 213 ps/500 Nm, enabling the Ranger to overcome challenging conditions while also being able to cruise effortlessly at high speeds.

With an extensive suite of smart technologies, many of which are first and only in-class, the WildTrak is safe and capable with a level of refinement that is above average for the typical pick-up truck.

The Ranger XLT Plus is powered by a 2-litre Single-Turbo diesel engine that produces 180 ps/420 Nm, plenty for hauling heavy cargo. It comes with convenience features such as keyless entry with pushstart ignition and the innovative Easy Lift Tailgate which takes away the heaviness of the tailgate.

Those who are looking for a reliable and tough workhorse will find the Ranger XL well suited to many tasks. It can haul up to 1,000 kgs and tow a load of up to 3,500 kgs. The Ranger XL is ‘Built Ford Tough’, which also applies to every Ranger model.

Test-drive from your doorstep
Find out what driving a Ranger is like at your convenience by requesting for a test drive vehicle at home or at the office (within 10 kms radius of an authorised Ford dealership). The request can be made either contacting the dealership directly, submitting an online test drive request via the SDAC-Ford website or by sending a message to the Ford Digital Salesperson on the WhatsApp sales line at 019 204 1200.

The ‘Digital Salesperson’ will also be able to address all customer queries relating to vehicle purchase including stock availability, loan financing options, roadtax and vehicle registration fees as well as insurance options.

Three more top awards for Ford Ranger in Europe

Three more top awards for Ford Ranger in Europe

Although pick-up trucks were, in earlier years, regarded as just workhorse machines for use off-road most of the time, the Ford Ranger changed that image. When it was introduced in the mid-1990s as Ford’s ‘Asian Car’, it brought to the regional market a new way of using pick-ups – the way they were being used in America, the largest pick-up market in the world.

In America, pick-ups were used for a variety of purposes, not just for tough off-road transport. They were used in daily commuting and as leisure vehicles. Of course, they also had to look good and over time, Ford stylists made the rugged image something that was desirable.

This was how the Ranger changed the perception of the pick-up truck in ASEAN. Before it was introduced, pick-up trucks were pretty basic and boring. They usually came to town from construction sites or logging camps for supplies and then went back in. No one really considered having them as daily transport to work.

Still, the Ranger was ‘Built Ford Tough’ and had all the capabilities a pick-up truck should have – plus stylishness that appealed to those who had never thought of owning such a vehicle before. It made quite an impact and in its early years in the Malaysian market, it accounted for half of all pick-ups sold.

The big factory in Thailand which was built to make the Ranger for regional distribution was also a global production hub for the model. So distant markets like Europe and South America also got their Rangers from Thailand. In Europe, the model steadily made inroads into the market and grew in popularity to become Europe’s No. 1 in its segment. The dominance of the Ranger was again demonstrated when it collected three awards in Germany in recent months.

Readers of the specialist magazine ‘Auto Bild Allrad’ gave the highest number of votes to the Ford model, winning it the overall award among All-wheel Pickups. The expert jury of the trade magazine ‘firmenauto’ was also convinced that the Ranger should win the top award in the pick-up segment, giving it the title of ‘Company Car of the Year 2020’. And finally, readers of the specialist magazine OFF ROAD chose the Ranger as the ‘Off-Road Vehicle of the Year 2020’ in the “Pick-ups” category as well.

Ford Ranger Europe — *In Europe, Ranger owners also attach mobile cabins to the vehicle for camping holidays.*

The three latest awards join the ‘International Pick-up of the Year 2020’ award which was won last year. The jury picked the Ranger for its combination of robustness, clever drive technology, comfort and large loading area.

To know more about the wide range of Ranger models available in Malaysia visit www.sdacford.com.my.

The New Ford Ranger FX4

New Mazda BT-50 – first pictures and details!

Mazda and Ford had a relationship that went back to the mid-1970s and by many accounts, it was a successful one. One of the successful joint efforts to come out of the partnership was the pick-up truck program which saw the development of the Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger, along with a 50:50 investment in a brand new factory in Thailand to build the vehicles.

However, by 2015, the automotive world had changed substantially, and Ford was also going through challenging times. It decided to end the long partnership with Mazda that year by selling off its remaining shares in the company. Further collaboration was also not considered, and an announcement was made that the next Ranger generation would not involve Mazda (and we now know that it will involve Volkswagen).

A new association with Isuzu
At the time of the announcement in 2017, a Mazda executive would only suggest that the reason for not developing the next Ranger and BT-50 together with Mazda was due to ‘business considerations’. The Ford package was not as commercially attractive to Mazda as what was offered by Isuzu Motors for its next generation of pick-up trucks.

Actually, Isuzu and Mazda had already been working together for some years on commercial vehicles in the Japanese market. The new agreement would see Isuzu providing its D-MAX pick-up for adaption to become the new generation of the Mazda BT-50. It’s not known how much involvement Mazda had in the current D-MAX which was launched in October last year.

2020 Mazda BT-50 — *Like other Mazda models, KODO design language is used and differentiates the BT-50 from the Isuzu D-MAX (inset).*

The result of the project has now been revealed with preliminary information and pictures of the new BT-50 being released. Mazda’s designers have done a good job of differentiating the Mazda model from the D-MAX. It’s not one of those vehicles which will draw remarks like ‘just a badge-engineered job’.

Immediate brand recognition
As with all current Mazda models, the KODO design language is used, giving immediate brand recognition. Mazda’s designers have adapted the KODO design theme to present an image of ‘power, toughness and utilitarian functionality’ suited to a pick-up truck.

ISUZU D-MAX PLATFORM — *The platform for the new BT-50 is identical to the one developed for the latest D-MAX.*

Just as there were tiny engineering differences between the Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape SUVs, there seems to be the same subtle differences between the new BT-50 and D-MAX. Mazda says it developed the BT-50 ‘with the intention of making travel and the time spent inside the vehicle exceptionally pleasant’. Its focus is therefore on personal transport for leisure more than a workhorse role although the D-MAX genes should still give it plenty of capability for those who use it for business.

The 1.9-litre Blue Power engine too?
The information available is still limited and a 3-litre turbodiesel engine is mentioned. This would be an Isuzu unit and it remains to be seen whether the 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel will also be offered in the BT-50. Mazda’s strategy could be to cater to a niche segment with smaller volumes, rather than try to compete over a broad spectrum of customers with extra engine options.

Isuzu Manufacturing Thailand — *The BT-50 will be manufactured for Mazda at Isuzu’s global production hub for the D-MAX in Thailand.*

The new BT-50 will be manufactured by Isuzu Motors at its D-MAX production hub in Thailand. It will go on sale in that market later this year and as it is also a CBU import for the Malaysian market, we could see it here before the year ends too.

Visit www.mazda.com.my to know more about Mazda models available in Malaysia.

Revised Mazda Prices with Sales Tax exemption (from June 15, 2020)

The New Ford Ranger FX4

Until the Ford Ranger came along in the 1990s, the pick-up truck was viewed as just a workhorse machine with minimal safety features. Then Ford decided that, rather than develop an ‘Asian Car’ based on a passenger car, it would instead make a truck its ‘Asian Car’. After all, it had decades of experience making trucks, especially for the US market, the home of pick-up trucks.

The carmaker built a huge new factory in Thailand with an investment of US$500 million to make the Ranger, primarily for the ASEAN market but with a longer term plan of becoming a global production hub for the model. In fact, by the beginning of the 2000s, the Ranger was being exported to over 100 countries and becoming a popular choice.

That it won awards in regions as different as Europe and ASEAN showed that it was a product which could meet a broad spectrum of customers’ needs, whether for personal transport or for business and heavy-duty work. And last year, the Ranger was also introduced in the US market as well.

Game-changer in truck segment
‘Built Ford Tough’ has been a strong point of the Ranger but the other reason for its popularity has been that it has been a stylish pick-up. In fact, the first Ranger was a ‘game-changer’ and influenced other carmakers to make their equivalent products more comfortable and more stylish. And Ford also made safety a high priority, introducing increasingly advanced safety systems with smart technology to protect the occupants.

The current range in Malaysia is perhaps the widest ever, with a choice of engines and variants to suit just about every requirement. At the top is the Ranger Raptor, a muscular-looking truck with performance that matches its looks. Today, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has added a brand new variant – the Ranger FX4 – which is the first pick-up truck to be launched online in Malaysia.

“The New Ford Ranger FX4 is designed for customers who are looking for a truck with a lot more attitude, and those who take their truck on adventures while making use of its best-in-class towing and payload capabilities,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion. “It truly is an uncompromised truck for the adventure seeker, and its addition to our line-up of nine variants in Malaysia further reinforces the Ranger’s versatility as a vehicle to suit every lifestyle.”

“Given the current COVID-19 situation, this online launch of the New Ford Ranger FX4 is appropriate in ensuring the continued social distancing guidelines outlined by the government,” added Tuan Syed Ahmad Muzri. “In an increasingly digital age, it is also in line with our strategy to innovate on ways to bring new experiences to consumers online. We are proud to be the first pick-up truck brand in the country to launch a new model digitally on two live platforms.”

While maintaining the tough and rugged image of all Rangers, the FX4 gains its own identity too with styling features based on a black theme. There’s a new ebony black mesh front grille and the 18-inch alloy rims are also finished in gloss black. The sports bar is also finished in matte black and if you are one of the first 150 buyers, it is provided free of charge.

Three colour choices are available and if the dark shades of Meteor Grey and Absolute Black don’t appeal to you, there’s also Arctic White which has a strong contrast between the black elements and the white bodywork.

Muscular engine with VGT
Powering the FX4 is a Ford 2.2-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT). The VGT enhances the engine’s efficiency by varying boost according to conditions so that optimum output is available all the time. At peak, there’s 160 ps available with 385 Nm of torque continuously available from 1,600 rpm to 2,600 rpm. That means strong pulling power from standstill with the ability to also sustain high cruising speeds.

The power flows through a 6-speed automatic transmission with High and Low ranges to maximise the off-road capabilities of the FX4 while also giving smooth and economical running on highways. In the older trucks, it was necessary to stop the vehicle when switching ranges but with the Ranger, this can be done without stopping. Even better, you only need to rotate a dial instead of struggle with a second lever to engage.

The FX4 also comes with a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on the rear axle. With this, there’s better stability on slippery terrain. Whenever one wheel spins as it loses grip, the LSD will immediately divert torque to the other wheel so that grip is not totally lost.

Premium ambience in car-like cabin
The passenger-car like interior of the Ranger was one of its original selling points, persuading many to switch from their sedans or hatchbacks to a pick-up truck – which also introduced them to a new lifestyle. For the FX4, a dark theme is used within, mirroring the exterior theme. The leather-accented seats have embossed FX4 logos on the backrests, while red stitching has been applied to the gear selector, centre console, instrument panel, centre console, door trims, handbrake and steering wheel. Special FX4-branded carpet mats also add to the exclusivity and complement the premium ambience of the cabin.

For entertainment on the move, there’s an infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and it comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so there’s easy connectivity with smartphones. Bluetooth is also available for other devices and Voice Recognition helps to keep the hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road. SYNC is like a ‘control centre’ for many functions, some of which can be managed by just saying commands in simple language.

Needless to say, with everyone having one or more electronic devices these days, being able to recharge on the move is useful. In the FX4, there is a 12V socket (which you can plug a USB adapter into) as well as a USB port for charging.

Protecting occupants well
With its ‘Built Ford Tough’ credentials, the Ranger FX4 already has a robust bodyshell and chassis that can offer good passive protection. Additionally, there are airbag systems and ISOFIX childseat connectors in the cabin. But as it always better to prevent an accident from occurring in the first place, Ford has worked hard to add smart technologies that assist the driver to avoid or recover from a potential accident.

These driver assistance systems include ABS, Emergency Brake Assist, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, Rollover Mitigation (valuable for tall vehicles like trucks), Trailer Sway Control and Adaptive Load Control.

Additionally, standard features like rain-sensing wipers allow the driver to concentrate on driving more, while Hill Descent and Hill Launch controls make it safer going uphill or downhill. There’s also cruise control to help reduce fatigue on long highway journeys as the vehicle can be set to run at a desired speed.

The display screen on the dashboard also switches to a rear view of the FX4 when reverse gear is engaged. The bright and clear image from the camera mounted on the rear cargo panel gives a wide view so obstacles or even small children can be spotted while reversing. Together with parking sensors in the bumper, it certainly helps when parking the vehicle in tight spots!

Priced from RM126,888 (on-the-road, without insurance), the new Ranger FX4 comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of 3 years or up to 100,000 kms. It’s imported as a completely built-up model (CBU) from Thailand.

For the very first 150 customers nationwide who purchase the new Ranger FX4, SDAC will give complimentary accessories worth RM5,398. These are the matte black sports bar and executive window tinting, as well as a built-in Digital Video Recorder (DVR) with a range of smart and safety functions including high-definition (HD) recording, wide-angle viewing, night view recording and Mobile App connect via Hotspot. It also comes with 8GB memory card.

Ford Digital Salesperson ready to assist
Besides visiting a showroom, customers can also WhatsApp the Ford Digital Salesperson at +6019-204 1200 from 9am – 4pm, Monday – Friday, excluding public holidays. Through this dedicated channel, they will be connected with an authorized Ford salesperson at a dealership located nearest to them. This will initiate discussions on the purchase process and customers can transact at their own convenience to pay the deposit for their vehicle from wherever they are.

Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more about the new Ranger FX4 and where the nearest Ford showrooms is.

Ford Ranger wins International Pick-up Award 2020

New Ford Ranger FX4 to be unveiled on June 3 and you’re invited to the launch event!

Malaysians throughout the country are invited to the launch of the new Ford Ranger FX4 scheduled on this June 3 at 11 am. Of course, with the restriction on gatherings due to the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), a public event is not possible at this time so Sime Darby Auto ConneXion, the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, will unveil the new model online.

“The Ranger FX4 will be the first pick-up truck in the country to be launched simultaneously online via YouTube and Facebook,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion. “As we embrace the new normal, we also embrace in new ways to bring excitement to our customers.”

Ford Ranger range — *The Ford Ranger family in Malaysia will soon get a new member.*

While retaining the tough and bold exterior, the new Ranger FX4 has a host of new and unique features which are apparent from first glance. Additionally, it has the Smart Technologies seen in various current Ranger versions. These include 4X4 Shift-On-The-Fly (no need to stop to engage 4×4), Limited Slip Differential, rain-sensing wipers, Electric Power Assisted Steering and Daytime running lights.

Safety systems include SRS airbags, Hill Descent Control, Hill Launch Assist, ABS with Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution, ISOFIX child seat mounts, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, Rollover Mitigation, Trailer Sway Control and Adaptive Load Control.

To celebrate the launch, the first 150 customers who purchase the Ranger FX4 will receive complimentary accessories worth RM5,398. These are a matte black sports bar and executive tinting, along with a built-in Digital Video Recorder with an 8GB memory card.

If you already know about the Ranger and that it’s ‘Built Ford Tough’, and want to be among the first owners of the new FX4 version, you can place a booking ahead of the launch to take advantage of the free accessories offer.

To do so, contact the Ford Digital Salesperson at +6019-204 1200 from 9 am – 4 pm, Monday – Friday (excluding public holidays) and through this dedicated WhatsApp channel, customers can be linked with an authorised Ford salesperson at a dealership located nearest to them. This would allow customers to transact at their own convenience and pay the deposit for their vehicle from wherever they are.

“For customers visiting our showrooms and service centres nationwide, we would like to welcome and assure you that the necessary precautions are in place to ensure the health and safety of our visitors and staff as outlined by the government. This includes the practice of social distancing, temperature checks upon entering the premise, and hand sanitiser dispensers located at common areas. In addition, there is frequent sanitising of high contact points throughout the premises, including service and display vehicles,” said Jeffrey Gan, MD for Retail and Distribution, Malaysia, Sime Darby Motors.

For more information on Ford vehicles or to locate a showroom in Malaysia, visit www. sdacford.com.my.

Ford Ranger wins International Pick-up Award 2020

Isuzu Malaysia to expedite delivery of new vehicles to customers

As the country continues to transition towards the recovery phase of the pandemic, Isuzu Malaysia is doing its best to fulfil customer orders, particularly those that were placed before the Movement Control Order (MCO) came into effect in March. Efforts are underway to ensure vehicles are speedily processed from the plant in Pekan, Pahang to be dispatched to dealerships around the country.

The company had received some 300 orders for various Isuzu D-Max models but as movements were restricted and the JPJ also closed its branches so registration and application for roadtax could not be done, customers could not get their vehicles.

Isuzu vehicles for the Malaysia market are assembled at its plant in Pekan, Pahang. — *Isuzu vehicles for the Malaysian market are assembled at its plant in Pekan, Pahang.*

“While our customers do understand the circumstances for the delay, we empathise that during these trying times, our customers require Isuzu vehicles even more as these robust and versatile trucks play a key role in keeping them moving dependably and efficiently. It is therefore our aim to ensure that customers are able to take delivery of their new Isuzu D-Max pick-up trucks as quickly as possible,” said the Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki.

No procedures at dealerships
At the dealerships, a new delivery process has been put in place to ensure customers and staff are well-protected in line with the government’s call to effectively curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Standard operating procedures include a temperature record of every staff member prior to the start of each work day, compulsory use of surgical masks, disinfecting of all touch-points in the outlets three times daily, while demonstration vehicles and customer vehicles are disinfected after each human contact.

All visitors to Isuzu outlets are also required to have their temperatures while hand sanitizing liquid and if required, a face mask, will be made available at all facilities. Customers collecting their new vehicles will be informed of the delivery dates by their sales advisor and provided an appointed time of the hand-over in order to avoid crowding or prolonged exposure in the outlet.

“The procedures in the Isuzu Delivery System have been revised somewhat to incorporate the recommendations of the Malaysian government where dealing with the pandemic is concerned. We remain mindful that customers will continue to seek high-value Isuzu vehicles to serve their daily needs thus we endeavour to create the most conducive and safe environment for prospects, customers and our frontline teams,” added Mr. Suzuki.

Warranty extension
Isuzu vehicle owners whose vehicle warranties were to have expired during the MCO period will automatically enjoy a further 30-day extension from May 13, 2020 while those whose vehicles were also overdue for scheduled maintenance during this period can rest assured that their warranty will not be affected by the delay.

Customers intending to bring their vehicles in for service are advised to make prior appointments with their respective Isuzu Authorised Service Centres as each outlet is operating according to CMCO regulations in their respective states. They now practice social distancing and therefore have to limit the daily intakes based on the capacity of the individual service facility.

To arrange for viewing or test drive of Isuzu vehicles, customers may make an appointment via Isuzu Malaysia’s Facebook page.

Isuzu Dura Miles Challenge shows fuel efficiency of 1.9-litre Blue Power engine

Latest Ford Ranger Raptor gets added safety systems and upgrades

The Ford Ranger Raptor, imported by Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), has been updated for 2020 with an added safety pack and additional features. Additional upgrades to the include an additional USB charging port on the rearview mirror and LED projector headlamps for greater visibility while driving at night.

In the area of safety, which Ford trucks are highly noted for, the latest Ranger Raptor is now equipped with additional intelligent advanced driver-assist features. They are Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning and Assist.

These advanced technologies are first-in-class and complement other smart technologies that can be found in the rest of the Ranger line-up.

“With the new enhancements to the Ford Ranger Raptor, this ultimate off-road truck is now perfected to conquer the streets, making it ideal for everyday use in addition to commanding the harshest terrains at thrilling speeds. We are confident that the Ranger Raptor will continue revolutionising the market for pick-up truck enthusiasts in Malaysia,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

With Ford’s Performance DNA infused into the ‘Built Ford Tough’ Ranger line, the Raptor has set a new benchmark as the only factory-built performance truck for high-speed off-roading.

Its powerful 2-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine produces 213 ps/500 Nm which goes to the rear or all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Extra ground clearance gives it class-leading water wading up to 850 mm while the long-travel FOX Racing Shox dampers can take on the roughest terrain. A Terrain Management System offers six modes, including a Baja Mode, which customise the engine and performance characteristics to the terrain for optimum grip and stability.

The Ranger Raptor is priced from RM208,888 (on-the-road, without insurance) and though it is more expensive that other pick-up trucks, demand for it has been surprisingly high. This could be because it’s not a ‘limited edition’ with just ‘look rugged and sporty’ bodykits but has genuine high-performance parts as well – and a factory warranty to go with it.

“During the Movement Control Order period, customers who have purchase enquiries on the New Ford Ranger Raptor may converse with us digitally via our newly launched Digital Salesperson, a WhatsApp Live Chat,” said Tuan Syed Muzri.

SDAC’s Ford ‘Digital Salesperson’ at your service

For enquiries on the latest Ranger Raptor and other Ford models, contact the ‘Digital Salesperson’ from 9 am – 4 pm, Monday – Friday. Customers simply need to enter WhatsApp +6019-204 1200 to start chatting and queries will be attended to within 24 hours. Information can also be found at the SDAC Ford website.

Peugeot to sell new Landtrek pick-up in Africa and Latin America

Pick-up trucks have not been entirely unknown in Peugeot’s range, although they have been rare. Mainly seen in Africa markets, Peugeot has had pick-up variants of the 403, 404 and 504 in the past, Now, as part of the brand’s international expansion, it is aiming for a slice of the 2.4-million 1-ton pick-up segment, albeit in Africa and Latin America. Europe and other markets are not in the marketing plan.

Its new entry is the Landtrek and while Peugeot doesn’t mention the background of this new model, it is known to have been jointly developed by the French carmaker and Changan, the latter selling its version as the Kaicene F70 in China since last October. Changan and Peugeot have had a joint-venture company for some time but early this year, it was sold off to the Baoneng Investment Group.

2020 Peugeot Landtrek — *The Peugeot Landtrek was jointly developed with Changan which sells its version as the Kaicene F70 in China (below).*

The Landtrek follows the typical pick-up fundamentals and is engineered with high priority given to durability and payload capacity. Before being confirmed for production, prototypes covered 2 million kms of testing on all kinds of terrain and in different weather conditions.

Dimensionally, the Landtrek is of the same size as other pick-ups in the market. It measures 5.33 metres in length for the double cab version and 5.39 metres for the single cab versions, all with a width of 1.92 metres.

The interior design draws some of its elements from 3008 and 508 models, notably the 3008’s 2-spoke steering wheel and the 10-inch HD screen at the top of the dashboard inspired by the 508. The aim has been to provide a passenger car-like cabin (for up to 6 persons) for maximum comfort on any terrain.

The modularity of the rear bench seat is unique in the 1-ton pick-up segment and its backrest can be folded 60/40 or 100%. When folded down, the backrests can support a load of up to 100 kgs. At the front, there is a choice between 2 independent seats with central armrest or a 3-seater Multiflex bench seat. With the latter, there is the possibility of folding down the central backrest to make room for an armrest/work table or to load bulky objects weighing up to 75 kgs.

Besides 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Control, there’s also Hill Descent Control, Anti-Skid control and Trailer Swing Control. The Lane Departure Warning system will alert the driver if the truck wanders off the lane while 1 to 4 cameras can be installed to facilitate manoeuvring by providing a 360° view.

Claimed to have ‘the most accommodating cargo box in the segment’, it can take in 2 Euro-pallets in the Double Cab versions and 3 Euro-pallets in Single Cab versions. The payload can be up to 1.2 tons in some versions and the towing capacity is 3 tons.

The turbodiesel engine, likely to be the more popular of two powertrain options, has a 1.9-litre displacement and produces 150 ps/350 Nm. The petrol option is a turbocharged 2.4-litre unit which generates 210 ps/320 Nm. Both engines can be ordered with a 6-speed Getrag manual gearbox and the petrol version can also be specified with a 6-speed Punch automatic gearbox with sequential operation, Sport or Eco modes.

Like most pick-up trucks, the Landtrek has a transfer case with High and Low ranges to provide maximum capability in the toughest conditions. The rear differential is equipped with the eLocker system with automatic disengagement and provides extra traction when one wheel spins. It can travel across water that is 600 mm deep and clear rough terrain with 235 mm of ground clearance.

Groupe PSA starts Peugeot vehicle exports from Naza Automotive Manufacturing, its production hub for ASEAN

Nikola Badger electric pick-up truck to use hydrogen fuel cell tech to achieve a range of 965 kms

Ever since Elon Musk unveiled the Tesla Cybertruck, the prospects for electrically-powered pick-up trucks have been increasing as other manufacturers (not the mainstream carmakers though) have announced plans for their own models.

The latest is Nikola Corporation which will show the first prototype later this year in Nevada. Design-wise, the Badger, as it is to be called, looks like the typical truck of today with a 5-seat cab and an overall length of 5900 mm. What is going to be game-changing is the performance which the company says will ‘target and exceed every electric or petrol pickup in its class’. To reduce development and production cost, the Badger will be built in conjunction with another manufacturer utilizing their certified parts and manufacturing facilities.

With a 150 kWh lithium-ion battery pack ‘refilled’ by a 120 kW hydrogen fuel cell that generates the electricity, the Badger is expected to have an output of up to 900 bhp with at least 50% available continuously, and almost 1,330 Nm of torque. Very impressive is the claim of an estimated 965 kms of range on a full battery pack and using the fuel cell but without the fuel cell support, the range will be about 480 kms.

The Badger is being designed to handle take-offs with minimal loss of performance and to operate on grades up to 40% through advanced software blending of batteries and fuel-cell. With a fully loaded trailer and combined vehicle weight of 8,180 kgs, the Badger will be able to launch from a standstill on a 30% grade without motor stall.

The electric pick-up will also be engineered to outperform all electric pick-up trucks on the market in continuous towing. It will have a 15-kW power outlet for tools, lights and compressors, which is enough power to assist a construction site for approximately 12 hours without a generator.

“Nikola has billions worth of technology in our semi-truck program, so why not build it into a pick-up truck?” said Trevor Milton, CEO, Nikola Corporation. “I have been working on this pick-up program for years and believe the market is now ready for something that can handle a full day’s worth of work without running out of energy. This electric truck can be used for work, weekend getaways, towing, off-roading or to hit the ski slopes without performance loss. No other electric pick-up can operate in these temperatures and conditions.”

“The Nikola Badger is a game-changer. The program will help drive down the cost of the fuel-cell components on our semi-truck while accelerating the hydrogen station roll-out. Giving customers the option to order a fuel-cell or battery electric version will ensure we drive the cost down for everyone across our line-up,” added Mark Russell, President of Nikola Corporation.

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