The Russian commercial vehicle market has been undergoing a radical transformation in recent years, and the emergence of a model ST6 from Sollers became one of the most notable events. This car, which replaced the popular Ford Ranger, is now assembled at a plant in Yelabuga and is positioned as an affordable alternative to outgoing Western brands. Potential buyers are concerned about how well the production was localized and whether the truck has retained its legendary reliability qualities.
Externally, the new product is practically no different from its predecessor, which for many is a plus, because the design has been tested by time. However, there are some major changes under the hood and in the cabin that you need to be aware of before purchasing. Chinese diesel Yuchai replaced the usual Ford EcoBlue, and the interior is completely adapted to new realities. Let's look at what this truck is in detail.
Many entrepreneurs consider the ST6 as the main tool for business, so issues of engine life and cost of ownership come to the fore. In this article we will analyze in detail the technical characteristics, consider the features of operation in Russian conditions and evaluate the real economic benefits of purchasing this pickup truck.
Model history and production localization
The history of this truck goes back more than ten years, and during this time it has established itself as one of the most durable frame pickups on the market. Initially, the model was produced by Ford in Thailand and supplied to Russia under the name Ranger. After the American concern left the country, the production line in Yelabuga was mothballed, but not destroyed.
Company Sollers took on the task of reviving the project, completely reworking the component supply chain. Now the degree of car localization is more than 50%, which allows buyers to count on government subsidies and preferential lending programs. This makes the ST6 an attractive proposition for small and medium-sized businesses.
Localization affected not only the body assembly, but also the introduction of Russian components. The car uses domestic glass, tires, batteries and various interior elements. This approach allows us to maintain a competitive price, despite the difficult logistics situation.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a car, make sure that the documents indicate exactly Sollers ST6, as this affects the terms of warranty service and the availability of original spare parts at dealerships.
It is important to note that despite the change of brand, factory quality control remained at a high level. Sollers engineers made a number of modifications to adapt the car to the harsh Russian winters and bad roads. This includes enhanced anti-corrosion treatment of the body and adjustment of the suspension to our realities.
Engine and powertrain
The heart of the new pickup truck was diesel engine Yuchai YCS4S160-61 with a volume of 3.8 liters. This is a time-tested unit that is widely used in medium-duty commercial vehicles. The engine develops 150 horsepower and produces 580 Nm of torque, which is an excellent indicator for working with a full load.
The engine complies with the environmental class Euro 5 and is equipped with a Common Rail system. An important feature is the absence of a complex exhaust gas neutralization system, which often caused problems for owners of European analogues. It uses a simpler and more reliable cleaning scheme, which is critical for regions with low fuel quality.
- 🚜 Resource: The resource declared by the manufacturer before major repairs is at least 500,000 km with timely maintenance.
- ⛽ Fuel consumption: In the combined cycle, the pickup consumes about 10-11 liters per 100 km, which is more economical than many gasoline competitors.
- 🔧 Service: The oil change interval is 15,000 km, but in severe operating conditions it is recommended to reduce it to 10,000 km.
The transmission remains a manual 5-speed, which is typical for utilitarian trucks. It is characterized by high reliability and the ability to transmit high torque without overheating. The clutch is reinforced, designed for frequent starts with a full load.
Why choose Yuchai engine?
Yuchai engines have long proven themselves in the commercial equipment market. They are easier to maintain than modern twin-supercharged turbodiesels and are less demanding on the quality of diesel fuel. This is a strategic solution to ensure maintainability in remote regions of Russia.
Load capacity and technical characteristics
One of the main advantages of the ST6 model is its total weight of 3.5 tons. This allows drivers with a regular category of license to drive a car. "B", which significantly expands the circle of potential buyers. There is no need to hire a professional driver with “category C” to perform moderate tasks.
The loading platform is made of durable steel and has standard dimensions that allow you to transport Euro pallets. The sides open on three sides, which facilitates loading and unloading. Depending on the modification, installation of an awning or a kung is available, turning the pickup truck into a full-fledged van.
Below is a table with the main technical characteristics of the car:
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Yuchai 3.8L Diesel | 150 hp |
| Gross weight | 3500 kg | Category B |
| Load capacity | up to 1455 kg | Depends on the configuration |
| Drive | Full (4x4) | Pluggable |
| Clearance | 235 mm | Fully loaded |
The car's suspension is fully dependent: springs are installed at the front and springs at the rear. This design provides excellent load-carrying capacity, but can be harsh when driving empty on bad roads. However, for commercial vehicles this is a standard and justified solution.
Interior configurations and equipment
Unlike its predecessor, the new Sollers ST6 received significantly richer basic equipment. The manufacturer understands that the driver spends a lot of time in the cabin, so he tried to create comfortable conditions. The basic version already includes air conditioning, power steering and electric windows.
In top trim levels you can find a multimedia system with support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control and heated seats. The interior materials have become more wear-resistant, the plastic in the cabin is hard, but pleasant to the touch and does not creak in the cold.
- 🎵 Multimedia: Touch screen, Bluetooth, USB connectors for charging gadgets.
- ❄️ Climate: Efficient interior heater and air conditioner as standard, pre-heater as an option.
- 🛡️ Security: ABS, EBD, driver and passenger airbags.
The ergonomics of the workplace are well thought out: all controls are within reach. The instrument panel is easy to read even in bright sunshine. The seats have good lateral support, which reduces back fatigue on long trips.
When ordering a car through the preferential leasing program, check whether air conditioning is included in the basic configuration, as in some lots it may come as an additional option.
Operation in winter
The Russian winter is a serious test for any equipment, and Sollers ST6 was created with this factor in mind. The engine is equipped with a pre-heater (depending on the configuration), which makes starting easier at low temperatures. The fuel system has effective filters that retain water and paraffin.
All-wheel drive system Part-Time allows you to connect the front axle directly in front of a difficult section of the track. Use four-wheel drive only on slippery or unpaved surfaces.
⚠️ Attention: In severe frosts (below -25°C), it is recommended to use winter diesel fuel and store the car in a heated garage or connect a network heater.
The basic battery has a capacity of 75 Ah, which is normal, but for northern regions it is better to immediately install a more powerful battery. The wiring is treated with special compounds that protect against the reagents that are sprinkled on roads.
☑️ Check before winter operation
Comparison with competitors
Today, the ST6 doesn't have many direct competitors in the affordable body-on-frame pickup segment. The main rivals can be considered JAC T6 and GAC GS8 (in the back of a pickup truck), as well as the remaining stock of old models. However, in terms of price and carrying capacity, Sollers looks very convincing.
The main advantage of a Russian car is the availability of spare parts and service. The Sollers dealer network covers almost the entire country, while servicing some Chinese brands may be difficult in the regions. In addition, the price of the ST6 is often lower than that of its fully imported counterparts.
On the other hand, the level of comfort in the cabin is still inferior to modern Chinese models, which are full of electronics. If you want a car with bells and whistles like a panoramic roof and autopilot, the ST6 may seem too simple and utilitarian.
Sollers ST6 is the choice of a pragmatist who needs a reliable working tool, not a status toy. Simplicity of design is an advantage here.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the real fuel consumption of the Sollers ST6?
In the combined cycle, taking into account load and operating conditions, consumption ranges from 10 to 13 liters per 100 km. With active driving with a full load on the highway, the figure can increase to 14-15 liters.
Do you need a "C" rating to drive this truck?
No, to drive the Sollers ST6, an ordinary driver category "B" is sufficient, since the total vehicle weight does not exceed 3500 kg.
Is there an automatic transmission?
Currently, the model is equipped only with a 5-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission is not yet available in the ST6 line.
What is the warranty period for the car?
The standard warranty is 3 years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first. An extended warranty is available when purchasing from authorized dealers.
Is it possible to install HBO on this engine?
Theoretically, installing gas equipment is possible, but this may affect the engine warranty. It is recommended to coordinate such modifications with the official service.