Daihatsu Gran Max Pick-Up And Panel Van Upgraded With Euro 4 Engine

The Daihatsu Gran Max pick-up and panel van has been upgraded with a Euro 4 compliant engine for better performance and efficiency. According to Daihatsu Malaysia Sdn Bhd (DMSB), this improved and enhanced model will replace the Euro 2 version which will be phased out.

The new Daihatsu Gran Max Euro 4 models use a 1.5L 2NR aluminium block engine with Dual VVT (variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust valves) to provide improved fuel efficiency and driving performance. Additionally, the new engine achieves Euro 4 level reductions in NOx and particulate emissions to help reduce its environmental impact.

The Gran Max has a 43-litre fuel tank and claims better fuel consumption compared to the outgoing model. The official fuel efficiency ratings are:

• Pick Up (MT)            12.5 km/l*
• Panel Van (MT)        13.3 km/l*
• Panel Van (AT)         13.5 km/l*

* The fuel efficiency is conducted under specific test conditions and may vary depending on usage environment (weather, road conditions, etc.) and driving method.

The Gran Max has the typical van-style front mid-engine layout where the engine is positioned beneath the front seats for optimal front-rear weight distribution. This helps with driving stability at higher speeds and during cornering. The Electrical Power Steering (EPS) in the new models also provides better handling, driving comfort and fuel economy. The new Gran Max also uses 14″ wheels compared to the 13″ in the older model, for better stability and control while carrying loads.

“Demand has always been encouraging for Daihatsu Gran Max as it is used in a wide variety of industries, including in construction, service, agriculture as well as in courier, delivery and logistics sectors. With this upgrade, Daihatsu intends to cater to the needs of those looking for improved fuel-efficiency and performance and to support the work and lifestyles of a variety of customers. With Daihatsu Global Group’s “Light you up” approach, we will continue to provide optimal mobility to every customer with our versatile range of light commercial vehicles,” said Arman Mahadi, Managing Director of Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.

More importantly, as a commercial workhorse is its loading and carrying capacity. Both the Gran Max pick-up and van variants have superior loading capacity for a light commercial vehicle. The Gran Max pick-up has a maximum loading capacity of 800 kg while the van version has a maximum of 750 kg.

The Gran Max pick-up has a square-shaped deck measuring 2,480 mm in length which provides a roomy cargo space. The walls of the deck are 360 mm high and feature 20 rope hooks, enabling any cargo to be securely held. In addition, both vehicles have a minimum turning radius of 4.9 meters, making them easy to manoeuvre even in narrow spaces.

For the Gran Max van, a low floor clearance of 620 mm and a wide rear door opening makes it easy to load and unload cargo from the hold. The cargo hold is square so cargo can be stacked right to the corners. It can hold boxes, tall objects, furniture, and other large loads. With a driver and single passenger seated, the length of the cargo hold is 2,075 mm. The vehicle also features 815 mm sliding doors on both sides, making it more convenient to load and unload cargo in tight areas.

Additional practical compartments are included to provide added convenience, along with other essential comforts such as the Passenger Seat Open Tray, the Centre Console Tray, three Cup Holders (passenger, driver and console box).

The new models continue to be equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Emergency Signal System (ESS) as well as Dual SRS Airbags for driver and passenger, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Immobilizer, Reverse Sensors and Alarm System.

Arman added, “We are very thankful for the prompt economic stimulus measures implemented by the Malaysia government as it has greatly fuelled the recovery in the automotive sector since the pandemic struck. The PRIHATIN scheme, together with the National Economic Recovery Plan (PENJANA), introduced by the government to help restart the economy, has resulted in a business resurgence for SMEs, particularly small and micro businesses, with the Daihatsu Gran Max being the best choice of business vehicle for this segment.”

The Gran Max Euro 4 is produced at the Daihatsu plant in Indonesia. Its retail price starts from RM73,614 (on-the-road without insurance).