Test drove 4 cars today and I shortlisted 3:
- Peugeot 308
- Suzuki Swift Sport
- Mitsubishi Triton 2.5 GLS

Contemplated the KIA Sportage but I've got to go to NAZA to get my servicing done and after hearing horror stories about long waits, inefficient and unhelpful stafff, I dropped the Sportage from my list.

Budget was the determining factor. Next was the drive. Last was how likely I'd get stopped at police road-blocks. Being stopped more = more money lost to corrupt policemen.

308
Love this car although it feels just a little under-powered. Feedback from owners of other continental cars is that the heat kills the car leading to problems after a few years. Then there's the fact that there is no resale value. Two major strikes against the Peugeot so its off the list.

Swift Sport
This car has power!!! The pick-up is amazing and it corners well. Suspension is rather hard so driving on Malaysian roads will be a killer. A rather low car as well so that'll be worrying when it rains heavily and when encountering flash floods. Lastly, there's hardly any boot space. Three strikes against the Swift Sport so its off the list.

Triton 2.5
Its a diesel pick-up and drives nicely. Feels like I'm driving a SUV rather than a truck. Pick-up from a stationery position isn't anything to scream about but otherwise performance seems pretty good. Reviews also say good things although the Hilux gets pretty good reviews too.

After researching how environmental diesel cars and diesel fuel is, the decision seems to be the Triton.



Think I'll visit Nissan & Toyota just to make sure I've checked out all choices available before I decide.

Awards for the Triton:
Its worldwide accolades also include the “Best Pick-up Truck, Double Cab 4WD Class” and “Best Realistic Fuel Economy Pick-up” in the 2006 Bangkok International Motor Show and the “Best Pick-up” at the Moscow International Motor Show in 2006. In the United Kingdom, where standards of measure and quality are exceptionally high, the Mitsubishi Triton has excelled by winning the UK’s 2006 Professional Van and Light Truck’s “Pick-up of the Year”. (Blog article on awards)

Diesel & The Environment:
Diesel engines are already more efficient than gasoline engines (45% vs 30%) Today’s diesel vehicles are also clean, quiet and fun-to-drive, many consumers are learning diesel is an environmentally conscious option that does not sacrifice power or performance. Diesel vehicles will outpace hybrids by 2012, selling 1.5 million vehicles, compared at an expected 1.2 million hybrids. (Diesel Technology Forum)