Subaru's micro punch
Page 10
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• Subaru has overtaken Bedford and Suzuki to become the first light CV builder to offer a microvan in the UK with a petrol engine of over 1,000cm3.
The latest Subaru Sumo micros replace the old 700-Series models and come as either two or four-wheel-drive high-roof vans.
The 4x2 Sumo 2WD has a three-cylinder 997cm3 power unit which pushes out 37kW (50hp) with a maximum torque of 81Nm (601bft). Its 4WD counterpart is the record breaker with a 1,189cm3 threecylinder block developing 39kW (52hp) with peak torque of 97Nm (721bft).
The three-cylinder engines are mounted at the rear of the Sumo body. Angled behind the transaxie, both are liquid cooled via a forward-mounted radiator, and feature crossflow heads with belt-driven camshaft.
The 2WD and 4WD Sumo have the same overdrive-top five-speed gearbox, but the 4WD has an additional transfer case built into the rear transaxle which is engaged by a dashmounted button.
Internal carrying capacity is 2.63m3 and, like the 700Series, the Sumo has twin sliding side doors and a rear tailgate. Load platform height is 404mm.
Payload on the 2WD Sumo is 630kg, while the 4WD's payload is 570kg. Both have a turning circle of 7.8m.
Subaru fits coil springs allround on the 1.43-tonne GVW Sumo, with disc brakes on the front axle and drums on the rear.
Subaru (UK) quotes a price of £4,100 (ex-VAT) for the Sumo 2WD and £4,900 exVAT for the Sumo 4WD.