MISSISSAUGA, Ont. — Hino Canada says it is set to introduce a new workhorse to this country’s truck market, the SG3325.

The new flagship model will be available beginning in the 2002 model year according to the company. The nine-speed SG3325 offers a gross vehicle weight of 33,000 lb. and a payload capacity of 22,800 lb.

Hino insists the truck is ideally suited for Canadian heavy-duty applications, such as vehicle transport, building and construction, as well as reefer applications.

The SG3325 comes with the new “J-Series” six-cylinder overhead cam, turbo intercooled, heavy-duty, 252 horsepower engine. In addition, it’s available with an optional five-speed Allison MD automatic transmission and has a wheelbase to accommodate most applicable body lengths.

Some customers report a 20 per cent fuel savings thanks to the J-Series reports Hino. The company credits these gains to a design that incorporates a new four valve overhead cam and a newly designed turbo charger to work in conjunction with the Hino micro mixing fuel system.

The engine accessories are gear driven from the flywheel, eliminating drive belts and vibration. Hino’s high volume cooling system ensures the engine is reliable in adverse conditions and the turbo intercooler aids in engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Currently all Hino trucks brought into Canada are manufactured at the plant at Hino City in Japan, although the manufacturer maintains an inventory in Canada. Despite the distance from Japan, Hino can move vehicles directly from the factory to Canada in 90 days.