Proton Jumbuck (03-05) - Review

Aussies love their yutes (that's utility vehicles, if you're not familiar with the term - pick-ups to you and me). Proton's no-nonsense small pick-up has been a big seller down under. It's a pick-up that's suited to being loaded up for farm work and darting across dirt tracks. Prices are low (especially if you are VAT registered), but expect only a basic spec on entry-level models. And if you were wondering, Jumbuck is Aussie slang for a sheep.

The cab of the Jumbuck is taken from the Wira - Proton's small family car. It's functional, and a little old-fashioned looking. The indicator is on the right-hand-side and everything is easy to reach. The steering wheel adjusts for height and the driving position is acceptable, with good all-round visibility. Base-spec cars have vinyl seats (remember them?), which can get...erm...sticky during the summer. Models with cloth seats are comfortable for a couple of hours hard driving. Just space for one passenger; decent amount of legroom, although headroom is a bit restricted.

Just one on offer: a 1.5 petrol with 86 bhp (available with an LPG conversion, too). It's an unrefined, old fashioned unit, but surprisingly willing and rev-happy. Like older Far Eastern engines, it's rather thirsty. Performance is dented with a full load. The low speed ride is harsh, while on the motorway it picks up every small crease in the road, which results in lots of bounce. However, it settles down once it's fully loaded.