One of the most enjoyable things to report on is the introduction of a new model, and I had the opportunity to do that this week in Las Vegas when International unveiled its new HX Series.

The HX will replace the PayStar and will round out the company’s severe-service vocational truck line. Four models will be offered, two set-back models and two set-forward, two 115-inch BBCs and two 120-inch.

The longer hood models get the Cummins ISX15 and the shorter hood, Navistar’s N13.

This is a stylish truck, featuring a curvier front end than the PayStar, with a sloped, tapered hood that allows better forward visibility. The hood also features a sightline down the middle and stylish halogen headlights with LED brows.

The high-end interior has design elements carried over from the Cat truck line, which was developed in partnership with Navistar. An angled center console places switches within easy reach of the driver, the combined tach/speedometer makes good use of space in the dash and the interior materials have an automotive look and feel. The HX is definitely Cattier than the PayStar it replaces, especially on the interior.

And the HX is available with 15-litre power right out of the gate while Cat truck buyers are still waiting for a 15-litre engine offering. I was told at the event that the folks in Peoria have not yet laid eyes on the HX, but that extensive conversations took place to determine which shared intellectual property could be implemented.

I had very little time in the truck, as there were a couple hundred customers and dealers eagerly awaiting some time behind the wheel, but I’ve been promised a good stint with the truck in the Spring. You can see these trucks for yourself at Truck World in April, including the fourth model in the series – the HX520 – which will make its debut at that show.

For now you can read my initial impressions and more details about the HX series here.