A new frame pickup truck, Sollers ST8, assembled at the Ulyanovsk plant, has appeared in Russia. It can be considered "multinational": it is based on the Chinese JAC T6 model, which, in turn, was created based on the Japanese Toyota Hilux of the seventh generation, and under the hood is a Mitsubishi engine modified by Chinese engineers.
The pickup inherited the classic design: a durable frame, plug-in all-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual gearbox. The new Mitsubishi 4K22D4T series engine is a 2.4-liter gasoline unit with a turbocharger producing 204 hp and 320 N⋅m of torque. This engine is known for its reliability, and the turbine has added dynamics. The average fuel consumption is about 10-11 liters per 100 km, which is only one liter more than that of a diesel, while the gasoline version is 100 thousand rubles cheaper and eliminates winter problems with diesel fuel.
The ST8 surprised with its stability on the highway: even at speeds above 100 km/h, the pickup does not require steering, and it holds confidently in turns for a frame structure with leaf springs. On bumps and potholes, the rear suspension does not "kick", and the interior - although noisy due to wind and transmission - shows noticeable progress compared to the previous ST6 model. Ergonomics have been improved: the new seats are more comfortable, an armrest and deflectors have been added for the second row, but the steering wheel is only adjustable for tilt.
Off-road, the ST8 reveals its potential. A ground clearance of more than 20 cm allows you to confidently storm country roads and rocky sections, and the suspension can withstand strong impacts without breakdowns. The main limitations are road tires and a long rear overhang, but if desired, you can install a rear self-locking differential, compatible with Hilux analogs.
The price of the basic version starts from 2,870,000 rubles. The "Lux" configuration will cost 100 thousand more, and the diesel version will add the same amount to the price. In the near future, Sollers promises to release a modification with an automatic transmission - this will eliminate one of the main disadvantages of the current version.
The interior looks modern, but is still equipped with a simple media system and modest trim. However, assembly in Russia on a full cycle allowed us to keep the price at a level below competitors. For this money, you can only buy a used Toyota Hilux 2017-2018 or Mitsubishi L200 2020 on the secondary market, while both will be with a turbodiesel and already quite traveled.
In terms of driving performance, the Sollers ST8 does not give the impression of a purely utilitarian vehicle. It is suitable for both the city and off-road, maintaining a balance between comfort and endurance. The inner surface of the body is protected by durable plastic, and the loading height is slightly less than 90 cm, which is convenient for daily use.
The result of the test is that the ST8 turned out to be a high-quality pickup truck of domestic assembly, which could become a real alternative to used Japanese cars. It combines modern design, practicality and affordability, and the future version with an "automatic" and improved multimedia promises to make it even more attractive to buyers looking for an honest frame SUV with a Japanese heart and a Russian passport.