Wuling Longka Test Drive, Episode 3
After the launch of the Wuling Longka, Wuling Motors will have nearly full coverage of micro - truck cargo box sizes ranging from 2m to 3.8m. If you are looking for a micro - truck product, you can find a suitable one in Wuling's product lineup. In terms of competitors, it basically leads in size and also has an advantage in power. It can be seen that Wuling's control over this niche market is very accurate. In addition, with its more than 2,800 service outlets across the country, it is unparalleled by other brands. However, there is still room for improvement in detail control. Regarding its target customer base, it mainly targets first - time entrepreneurs, freight platform drivers, and truck replacement customers. In terms of power, it is equipped with the same 2.0L engine as the Wuling Rongguang New Card, with a maximum power of 136 horsepower and a peak torque of 192 N·m. The transmission system is matched with Aisin's 5 - speed manual gearbox.
Next, let's talk about its dynamic performance. First of all, the 2.0L engine it is equipped with is basically the largest displacement in this class. The larger displacement brings better performance parameters and also makes it easier to start.
As a manual transmission model, the coordination of the clutch and accelerator is very important. Generally, before we drive an unfamiliar manual transmission vehicle, we must first lift the clutch a few times in place to feel its force, travel, engagement point position, and width, which is crucial for us to drive a manual transmission vehicle proficiently. The clutch travel of the Wuling Longka is relatively long. The engagement point is located at about 1/3 of the way up, where you can feel the semi - engaged state. The engagement point is clear and wide. With a little throttle, the whole starting process is very smooth.
We all know that micro - trucks are more focused on cargo - carrying capabilities. Therefore, the gear ratios of the first three gears of the transmission are more closely spaced to ensure better and more continuous torque output. If you haven't had much experience with this type of vehicle before, you may need to adapt a bit. Generally, at intersections, truck drivers will quickly shift two or three gears to match the gradually increasing speed.
There is nothing particularly surprising about the brake pedal feel and steering wheel feel. They are at the standard level of a typical micro - truck. If you have had experience with them before, you will be able to get used to them more quickly.
The suspension is one of its highlights. Both the front and rear suspensions are leaf springs. We have also seen similar configurations on the heavy - duty micro - trucks we have filmed before. Compared with the MacPherson front suspension, it undoubtedly has stronger load - carrying capabilities. The official rated load capacity is currently 1.59 tons. The more rigid front suspension, while ensuring greater load - carrying capacity, will inevitably reduce comfort. This is understandable, as it is not realistic to achieve both in this class of vehicles at this price level. Its nature is a money - making tool.
