From behind the wheel, the Hyundai Pavise feels like a modern sophisticated truck. The performance of the ZF AMT further enhances this perception with the smooth changing appearing absolutely seamless from the driver’s seat.
The systems in the truck are very responsive and effective. On a slight downhill at cruising speed, the truck is looking for an opportunity to engage E-roll and to coast along using very little fuel. The design and well-adjusted control system in place on this truck make the most of effective strategies to improve performance or save fuel.
This thoughtful design is also evident in the relationship with the AMT. When the driver pushes through the detent on the accelerator to get a kick-down, the AMT immediately changes down at least one gear and will hold that gear at high revs until the driver backs of, or the tachometer approaches 2500rpm.
Everything is set up to take direct inputs from the driver and react appropriately to that input. The tight turning circle is another aspect of the design which inspires confidence.
The overall feel of the truck is one of solidity and of being well-finished. It has a comfortable and secure feel from the driver’s point of view. The way the truck has been designed and put together makes the driver feel secure and in control.
The design of the handles and buttons are not simply utilitarian, the designers have clearly thought about the way they look and designed them accordingly. As a result, they have a distinctly European look about them.
One element of the cabin’s interior design which is ‘clunky’ is the parking brake. It is mounted high on the dashboard and seems bigger than it needs to be and out of place in such a good looking interior.
At the end of the day, and reflecting on the driving experience, this driver is left with little doubt this is a well made truck which performs the task very well while letting the driver get on with the job. The automatic and automated systems perform very well.
This truck feels well-designed, well-made and well-finished. Now all it needs is to be well-driven.
For Hyundai, the way forward is clear. The brand has good quality product in the market which is close to matching the big players. Getting the trucks out to the market must be the next priority. At the moment the number of Hyundai dealerships is relatively modest, but the word will get out that there is a credible and cost-effective alternative to the Japanese manufacturers.
