Proton Jumbuck Review (2003 to 2007)

Quick Summary

Although it would have been welcome to see a Jumbuck with a torquey diesel engine, Proton never saw fit to install one. Therefore the choices facing the potential buyer are rather simple. If you want an inexpensive light-duty pick up, there's not a lot better. Don't get carried away with the lifestyle aspect or pay over the top for a model laden down with accessories.

Overall:

Models Covered:2003-to date: Jumbuck 2 door pick up/ 1.5-litre petrol [GL, GS, GLS, GSX]

BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

Most pick-ups are bought by companies as a taxable expense, driven into the ground and rarely sold on for anything but scrap. There are exceptions though. 'Lifestyle' pick-ups are becoming increasingly popular as used buys, the growth fuelled by a tax loophole. The Proton Jumbuck doesn't really fall into either category. It's got enough load space for light commercial duties but lacks the rear seats required of a proper leisure pick-up. As a result, it's possible to pick up a nearly new Jumbuck for far less than you thought. If you've considered what you need your vehicle for and decided that a small pick-up fits the bill, a used Jumbuck is well worth a look.
Used Proton Jumbuck for sale

History of the Jumbuck

Although it was launched in 2003, it's possible to trace the Jumbuck's underpinnings right back to the launch of the original Persona in 1993. It shares the car's 1.5-litre powerplant and although the Persona morphed into the Wira in 2000, it's unlikely you'll mistake the Jumbuck's chassis for something state of the art. That's not such a bad thing though, as if you want a rugged vehicle of this type, tried and tested mechanicals are often your best friend. The handling package for the Jumbuck was conducted by Lotus and as a result, the Jumbuck is one of the few light commercial vehicles that don't turn to blancmange at the sight of a corner.
Used Proton Jumbuck for sale

Proton Jumbuck Road Test

So, who is going to want to buy a Proton Jumbuck, especially given that it only comes in 2-wheel drive? After all, businesses often look to a pick-up for its ability to move cargo around muddy building sites or to other locations that would be inaccessible to a van or flat-bed truck. Can the Jumbuck really cope with this kind of use? Well, the vehicle rides on a ladder frame chassis with coil-sprung suspension at the front and a rigid leaf-sprung axle at the rear. It's front-driven but Proton have upped the Jumbuck's ground clearance by 20mm over that of the Wira parent vehicle. Still, without 4x4 transmission or any of the off-road trickery found in larger pick-ups, it probably wouldn't take long for the Jumbuck to get gummed-up if it was faced with really treacherous terrain. Perversely, this inability to act as a genuine off-roader transpires to be one of the Jumbuck's key strengths. By choosing not to go down the road of beefing-up the suspension, elevating the ride height, installing all-wheel-drive transmission and adding a torquey diesel engine, Proton have ensured that this pick-up retains car-like performance, refinement and handling for driving on the road - the place where the vast majority of pick-up mileage is done anyway. The 86bhp 1.5-litre 12-valve engine revs freely and, while the performance might not set pluses racing, it's quiet on the motorway and punchy enough for getting around town. The Jumbuck should manage a 14.6-second 0-60mph time and a 96mph top speed with fuel economy averaging just under 40mpg in everyday driving. Whether laden or unladen, the steering feels responsive and there's minimal body roll through the bends – these are rare traits amongst larger pick-ups, which tend to suffer from distant steering and canal barge cornering. If fuel economy is your thing, an LPG version is also available.
Used Proton Jumbuck for sale

Buying a Proton Jumbuck

The Jumbuck is a sturdy campaigner although rear suspension squeaks can drive you crazy after a few miles. Check that the vehicle drives quietly or be prepared to replace rear bushings. The satin-coloured bars in the back aren't the most hardwearing parts of the car's make-up and soon become rather tatty looking if the Jumbuck has been used in earnest. The interior is largely workmanlike but seat fabrics can wear easily. Look out for evidence that the car has been overloaded or abused by checking the suspension and exhaust. Wipers can be very weedy and steer clear of garish colour schemes that may be difficult to shift.
Used Proton Jumbuck for sale

Proton Jumbuck Typical Pricing

Prices start at just under £5,000 for a 53-plated Jumbuck GL which at first suggests a stunning ability to retain value, but it's worth reminding oneself that the new prices quoted for a Jumbuck do not include VAT. GLS models can be had for a little more, so it's worth tracking one of these down if the price is right. The range-topping GLX opens at around £7,200. It's hard to believe there were people who stepped into a showroom and demanded the most luxurious Jumbuck money could buy but there you go. If you want bare utility, go for the entry-level model, but if you're after a few more creature comforts, now is the time to take advantage of the depreciation curve that started from that moment of personal extravagance by a Jumbuck GLX owner.
Used Proton Jumbuck for sale

Proton Jumbuck Parts

(Based on a 2004 Jumbuck GLS - approx) A new clutch will be in the region of £160 and a full exhaust about £335. Front brake pads will set you back about £45 for the front set and £38 for the rear, while an alternator will be around £165 and a replacement starter motor about £125.
Used Proton Jumbuck for sale