Ssangyong Actyon Sports, presentation and test drive in Segovia

Spain is not a country where pick-up vehicles generate much enthusiasm. It is a type of car that thrives in Australia or even America, with their typical pick-ups, which are simply irrational in a market like the European one.

Even so, some manufacturers have interesting products in this segment. You all surely know the typical pick-ups (Navara, Hilux, L200…), and now we have to add a new model to the market: the Ssangyong Actyon Sports.

Among its strengths is a new 155 CV diesel engine, 4×4 traction with a low-range gearbox, quite a lot of space in the rear seats, and interior finishes that are more than acceptable, as well as low engine noise. But in addition, compared with the previous model, it features a much more accomplished and distinctive exterior look, and interior comfort thanks to a suspension system that differs from what is typical in the segment.

Renewed exterior design and good interior finishes

Many of you surely remember the previous Ssangyong Actyon. It must be acknowledged that its design was distinctive, but not to everyone’s taste. This new pick-up, which takes over from the previous Actyon Sports, has advanced a great deal in terms of design, appealing much more to European tastes and creating a more striking product with a more refined design.

At the front is where we find the biggest changes, with new headlights, a new grille and an overall more imposing appearance. It also incorporates daytime running lights (bulb type) and new exterior colours that were available in the Korando range. As standard it comes with 16-inch steel wheels, with 16- and 18-inch alloy wheels available on the two top trim levels.

Another important detail in a pick-up is the load bed. In this case it has a capacity of 1,071 litres, which is about average for the segment (close to the Navara, for example). Another detail of the Actyon Sports is that it is designed as a double-cab pick-up, not a single cab, so the rear-seat space is considerable and does not reduce the size of the bed. The bed is deeper thanks to a rear suspension layout with coil springs rather than leaf springs, something that is also noticeable in interior comfort and dynamically.

While in the interior we find that much of the dashboard is finished in soft-touch materials with more than adequate fit and finish, during the 4×4 route test we found no creaks or strange noises. Space in the rear seats was quite adequate, enough for two adults who could travel comfortably.

As standard it features USB, AUX and Bluetooth connections, features that are unusual in the segment and that point to a vehicle intended not only for professional use but also for leisure. In addition, it has plenty of storage spaces in the centre console for leaving our things.

Dynamic test on a 4×4 route: XDi 200 Active engine with 155 CV

During the presentation we were able to take a short journey on country roads and motorway, and afterwards a off-road route around the outskirts of Villacastín. Once behind the wheel, the driving position is comfortable and elevated; the steering wheel, however, can only be adjusted for height, not for reach.

The sound insulation and the low engine noise are the standout features on the road. It is a comfortable car with a ride quality that is unusual for this segment, partly thanks to the coil-spring rear suspension that gives it comfort and stability.

The Actyon Sports debuts a new engine never before used by the Korean brand, a two-litre unit capable of producing 155 CV. It stands out for its delivery of power and torque: from 1,500 rpm we already have 360 Nm of torque available, and the 155 CV are more than enough to move this pick-up with ease. The feel of the gearbox could be improved, as it was not very precise.

On the short off-road route we encountered ruts, grassy areas, muddy patches and a few other surprises, none of which were a problem for the Actyon Sports with the low-range gearbox engaged. It handled both the mud and the different terrains with considerable composure across all kinds of ground, and has an effective traction system, along with tyres with a 75 aspect ratio that complement the good off-road abilities of this Korean vehicle.

The towing capacity of braked trailers up to 2,300 kg is noteworthy, a good figure, along with the approach and departure angles (both 25 degrees) and a ground clearance of 19 cm.

Equipment and prices

There are three trim levels (XDi, Premium and Limited Aut.), and from the base XDi trim level it already comes with stability control, CD radio with MP3 and Bluetooth, fog lights, air conditioning, four electric windows, among other standard features.

While the base price starts at 27,700 euros, a price that may seem somewhat high but which in practice is lower thanks to dealer discounts that can reach up to 5,000 euros, bringing it to a much more attractive price. The Premium version costs 29,500 euros and the Limited AUT. 34,000 euros.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira