Daihatsu returns to commercial van scene with Gran Max Panel Van
Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DMSB) will mark its return to the commercial van market segment with the Gran Max Panel Van, unveiled today in a sneak preview to the media. Fully imported from Indonesia, the Gran Max will occupy a market position Daihatsu once occupied with the Hijet models.
“What it essentially offers customers are fewer delivery trips, the ability to accommodate a larger cargo load and greater fuel efficiency, thus translating into better profitability,” said DMSB Managing Director Belinda H E Lim.
“From the acceptance and overwhelming success this model has enjoyed especially in Indonesia, and in countries in the African and the Middle Eastern regions, we believe that its size, practicality, competitive pricing, low cost of ownership, reliability and durability will quickly make it an attractive proposition to local customers.”
No diesel engines are available; the sole powertrain offering for the Gran Max is a 1.5-litre four-pot engine with twin camshafts and DVVT mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Maximum power, if that is of any consequence to its potential buyers, is 95hp @ 6,000rpm and 134Nm @ 4,400rpm.
In terms of cargo carrying, the Gran Max’s cargo bay is accessible by sliding doors either side of the van in addition to the tailgate. The cargo area measures 2,075mm x 1,495mm x 1,340mm. Weighing in at 1,130kg, the Gran Max has a gross vehicle weight of 2,000kg.
Underneath, the Gran Max features MacPherson struts up front and a five-link coil spring suspension behind, an unusually sophisticated setup for a van. Braking is taken care of by 13′ vented discs up front and drums behind, regulated by an Anti-lock Braking System.
Estimated pricing for the Gran Max panel van is below RM59,000, and DMSB has set a sales target of 1,000 units for the whole of 2011.
