Korean importer SsangYong has introduced an automatic variant of the Tradie dual cab pick-up. Priced at $27,990 for the 4x2 model or $30,990 for the 4x4 variant, the Tradie allows easier operation at an affordable price, with an Australian-sourced six-speed automatic transmission. The six-speed automatic is built at Drivetrain Systems International (DSI) in Albury and exported to South Korean where it's fitted on SsanYong's production line.

As with the manual variants released recently (more here), the automatic Tradies are available in white only and differ from the Sports DualCab range with steel wheels rather than alloys and rear drum brakes in lieu of discs. 

With the automatic, the Tradie uses just 8.7L/100km in combined-cycle testing -- a figure barely 0.6L/100km more than the figure for the manual variants.

"The Tradie has certainly proved a hit with tradesmen, fleet operators and farmers seeking an economical diesel twin cab that doesn't compromise on safety or performance," says SsangYong Motors Australasia managing director, Russell Burling.

"With traffic the way it is in most Australian cities these days tradesman are demanding the convenience and comfort of an automatic to make it easier to battle the jams on crowded suburban roads.

"The efficiency of the six-speed Australian made automatic also means there is very little difference in fuel consumption compared with the manual," he added.

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