Ssangyong claims the road-ready model combines modern styling and comfort with workhorse capabilities to appeal to buyers wanting a vehicle for leisure activities such as camping, skiing and cycling as well as customers who need a working truck.
However, the vehicle seems to be slanted more towards the lifestyle sector than, for example, the building trade.
The firm said: “Ssangyong has engineered the SUT-1 to offer all the dynamic appeal of a premium SUV. The truck’s combination of double wishbone and five-link suspension is more commonly found on full-size SUV models while the optimal tuning of engine mounts has minimised vibrations in all driving conditions.”
The cabin includes a sunroof, RDS, steering wheel mounted audio controls and Bluetooth. There is also a rear view camera, hinged sprung tailgate and trip computer while safety equipment includes ESP and dual airbags.
The double cab SUT-1 is powered by a 155hp 2.0-litre Euro5 Active Diesel Engine with claimed emissions of 186g/km. Peak torque of 360nm is achieved across a range of 1500 to 2800rpm.
Sporting the firm’s latest design language SUT-1 features a bird wing-shaped radiator grille and headlamp silhouette and a choice of 16 or 18-inch alloys. It has comparatively modest loadspace volume of 2.0 cu/m and, although the final specification is yet to be finalised, payload is likely to be less than a tonne.
The SUT-1 is offered with rear-wheel drive or on demand four-wheel drive both coupled to six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Prices will be announced closer to the SUT-1’s arrival in showrooms, which is expected to be in the first quarter of 2012.
