New Isuzu FTR Coming

Avatar photo

Isuzu unveiled an all-new entry in the class 6 medium-duty truck segment — the 2018 FTR — at the recent Work Truck Show. The new F-Series truck won’t go into production, in the U.S. until mid-2017.

The FTR will be powered by the company’s 4HK1-TC 5.2L turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, a first in the segment. Isuzu says that as fuel economy and emissions regulations become stricter, we’ll see more and more competitors in this class turning to four-cylinder engines.

Although horsepower and torque ratings have not been finalized, the company noted that the 4HK1 engine is well known for its high torque output. It will be mated to an Allison 2000 Series automatic transmission. The engine carries a B10 durability of 310,000 miles, or 499,000 km — meaning that 90% of engines should reach that mileage before requiring an overhaul.

Among other features, available aluminum 50- or 100-gal fuel tanks can mean a long cruising range, and eight wheelbase configurations will accommodate bodies from 16 to 30 ft. And with a 50-degree wheel cut, there’s  a tighter turning radius.

The all-new cab is clean out back, meaning more space for body applications compared to the previous F-Series truck. Wide-opening doors allow easy entry to the interior, with three-across seating and extra space for storage behind the seats. You’ll also see an overhead console and a suspension driver’s seat with armrest specially designed to increase comfort and reduce driver fatigue.

Avatar photo

Rolf Lockwood is editor emeritus of Today's Trucking and a regular contributor to Trucknews.com.


Have your say


This is a moderated forum. Comments will no longer be published unless they are accompanied by a first and last name and a verifiable email address. (Today's Trucking will not publish or share the email address.) Profane language and content deemed to be libelous, racist, or threatening in nature will not be published under any circumstances.

*