Getting act together

At the last count South Africans had just more than 1200 choices on models. Although this is a good sign that our vehicle industry is sound, the numbers will nevertheless be bad news to some companies which will be obscured from view by shinier brands.

One of these is Ssangyong, which has a fairly strong history in this country and some impressive models.

The Actyon, a sports utility vehicle with a unique coupé shape, is one of its accomplished models that must be given a look.

Launched against a backdrop of a Ssangyong range that wasn't totally up to scratch in terms of design, dynamics and appeal, the Actyon arrived highly polished. It sought to show the way the company was headed, which was a path filled with quality materials, refined mechanics and buyer appeal.

This is seen in its features list which will pamper buyers with air conditioning, electric windows, remote central locking, multi-function steering wheel, entertainment system and comfortable ride quality.

Space is generous and occupants are cocooned in comfort on wide seats. To create more space, the rear seats can be split folded and added to the cavernous boot space, the Actyon makes a compelling case for family or an outdoorsy lifestyle.

Ssangyong is, and has always been, an SUV specialist. Its first foray on to these shores was through a bakkie and in keeping with tradition, the Actyon has a bakkie version bizarrely badged as an Actyon Sport.

The yin-and-yang situation here is that if you buy the bakkie, you lose out on a complete coupé silhouette and a carpeted boot. But you gain in that the load bay doesn't eat up any interior space, leaving rear passengers with the same amount as they would have enjoyed in the SUV.

This feature made up the entire Actyon Sport's marketing campaign as the bakkie with "biggest rear passenger compartment".

Both Actyons are available in either 4x2 or 4x4 versions and are mated to a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine.

Output figures are 104kW of power and 310Nm of torque.

Transmissions are exclusively manual in the entry-level model while the range- topping A200XDI model is also available in automatic form.

I can confidently recommend this car on its capabilities, styling and feature-filled interior.

What I will not put my head on the block for is the integrity of its mechanical bits and after-sales experience.

You can put extra faith in the Mercedes-Benz connection though, which will be the basis of its engine and transmission. At last check, these units were proven beyond doubt.

Prices should be in the R260000 range.