TagAz Road Partner Pickup 2.9 TD (118 Hp) P400

The TagAz Road Partner Pickup 2.9 TD (118 Hp) P400 represents a distinctive chapter in the automotive landscape, specifically within the Russian and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) markets. Produced by the Taganrog Automobile Plant (TagAZ) from 2008 to 2011, this vehicle was a testament to the manufacturer’s strategy of leveraging established designs for local production. Essentially a rebadged and locally assembled version of the first-generation SsangYong Musso Sports, the Road Partner Pickup aimed to provide a robust, capable, and cost-effective utility vehicle. Its market segment was primarily defined by the demand for versatile workhorses that could handle diverse terrain and carry significant loads, a common requirement in its primary operational regions where infrastructure might be less developed than in Western markets. Unlike many vehicles designed for the North American market, the Road Partner Pickup prioritized ruggedness and simplicity over advanced creature comforts or high-performance metrics, making it a pragmatic choice for its intended demographic.

Engine and Performance: Powering the TagAz Road Partner Pickup

At the heart of the TagAz Road Partner Pickup 2.9 TD (118 Hp) P400 lies a dependable 2.9-liter inline-five turbodiesel engine, an architecture inherited from its SsangYong lineage. This powerplant, designated by the engine code SsangYong, was engineered for durability and consistent performance, particularly in demanding conditions. With an engine displacement of 2,874 cubic centimeters (175.38 cu. in.), it delivers a peak power output of 118 horsepower (Hp) at 4,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). This translates to a power-per-liter rating of 41.1 Hp/l, indicative of its focus on torque delivery rather than outright high-revving performance.

The engine’s robust character is further underscored by its torque figures. It produces 256 Newton meters (Nm) of torque, equivalent to 188.82 lb.-ft., available at a relatively low 2,800 rpm. This low-end torque is crucial for a pickup truck, enabling strong pulling power for heavy loads and competent off-road capability. The engine layout is front-mounted and longitudinal, a traditional setup for rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles that contributes to balanced weight distribution and allows for robust drivetrain components. Fueling this diesel engine is a common rail injection system, a modern technology even for its era, which helps optimize fuel delivery for better efficiency and reduced emissions, though it only meets the Euro 2 emission standard, reflecting its design vintage and target markets.

A significant aspect of this engine’s design is its aspiration system: it features both a turbocharger and an intercooler. The turbocharger forces more air into the engine, boosting power output, while the intercooler cools this compressed air, increasing its density and further enhancing combustion efficiency and power. The valvetrain utilizes a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder, a sophisticated design for a diesel engine of its time, promoting efficient airflow and combustion. The engine requires 8 liters (8.45 US qt) of engine oil, indicating a substantial lubrication system designed to withstand heavy-duty use. Power is transmitted through a 5-speed manual transmission, offering the driver direct control over gear selection, which is often preferred for towing and off-road driving. The drivetrain is an all-wheel-drive (4×4) system, providing enhanced traction and capability across various terrains, from unpaved roads to challenging off-road trails, aligning perfectly with the vehicle’s utility-focused mission.

Design and Features of the TagAz Road Partner Pickup

The TagAz Road Partner Pickup presents itself as a practical and unpretentious vehicle, designed with functionality at its core. Its body type is a traditional pickup, featuring four doors and seating for five occupants, striking a balance between passenger accommodation and cargo hauling. The exterior dimensions reflect its utility-oriented design: a length of 4,935 mm (194.29 in.), a width of 1,864 mm (73.39 in.), and a height of 1,760 mm (69.29 in.). These dimensions contribute to a substantial road presence, characteristic of a working truck. The wheelbase measures 2,515 mm (99.02 in.), providing a stable platform, while the front and rear tracks are 1,510 mm (59.45 in.) and 1,520 mm (59.84 in.), respectively, aiding in stability and handling.

For maneuverability, the minimum turning circle is 11.9 meters (39.04 ft.), a respectable figure for a vehicle of its size and type, allowing for navigation in tighter spaces typical of urban environments or job sites. The cargo capacity is a key strength of the Road Partner Pickup. Its trunk (bed) space ranges from a minimum of 780 liters (27.55 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1,810 liters (63.92 cu. ft.), offering substantial volume for tools, equipment, or goods. The fuel tank capacity is 72 liters (19.02 US gal), providing a decent range for extended journeys or remote work locations without frequent refueling stops. With a maximum gross vehicle weight of 2,835 kg (6,250.11 lbs.), the vehicle is engineered to carry significant payloads.

The suspension system of the TagAz Road Partner Pickup is designed to cope with demanding conditions. The front features an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, a robust arrangement that provides good wheel articulation and ride comfort over uneven surfaces. The rear suspension employs a dependent, multi-link spring system paired with telescopic shock absorbers, offering strength and load-carrying capability while maintaining a reasonable level of ride quality. Braking performance is handled by ventilated discs at the front, which dissipate heat more effectively under heavy use, and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is included as an assisting system, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking, especially on slippery roads. Steering is managed by a rack and pinion system, assisted by hydraulic power steering, providing predictable and manageable control. The vehicle rides on 235/75 R15 tires, a common size for utility vehicles, balancing grip, durability, and availability. These features collectively underscore the TagAz Road Partner Pickup’s commitment to delivering a reliable, functional, and capable vehicle for its target market.

Technical Specifications