Proton Jumbuck review (2003-2005)
PROS
- Cheap to buy
- Sturdy
CONS
- Incredibly rough ride when it's not fully loaded
Summary
Aussies love their yutes (that's utility vehicles, if you're not familiar with the term - pickups to you and me), and Proton's no-nonsense Jumbuck has been a big seller down under.
It's a pickup that's suited to being loaded up for farm work and darting across dirt tracks. Expect only a basic spec on entry-level models. And if you were wondering, Jumbuck is Aussie slang for a sheep.
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Just one on offer: a 1.5 petrol with 86hp (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 and 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.
The cab of the Jumbuck is taken from the Wira - Proton's small family car. It's functional, and a little old-fashioned looking, even for 2003. 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.
Fuel economy isn't impressive (unless you opt for the LPG option) and there's no diesel. Service intervals and costs are acceptable, but parts can be expensive.
Protons tend to be mechanically tough, with reliable engines and gearboxes. However, the interior plastics are cheap, scratch easily and trim can come loose. No major worries, though.
As the Jumbuck is based on the Wira - a very old car, it features side impact beams, but no airbags or seatbelt pre-tensioners. It does have remote central locking and an alarm for security though.
