Production has just begun on Peterbilt’s new Model 325, the company’s first entrant in the class 5 market, aimed at applications like towing, lease/rental, pick-up and delivery, landscaping and construction.

“The new Model 325 is the ideal truck for customers seeking a non-CDL, easy-to-operate, affordable truck in the rapidly growing class 5 segment,” says Bill Jackson, Peterbilt general manager.

The truck is rated at 19,500 lb in a straight-truck configuration, equipped with the Paccar PX-6 engine in 200, 240 and 300-hp ratings with torque up to 620 lb ft. Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes with ABS and a 6-speed manual transmission are standard.

The Model 325 has an all-aluminum cab, steel bumper, and hood and fenders made from Metton, an advanced composite material that can withstand minor impacts, bumps and scratches. It has the same headlamp system as Peterbilt’s other medium-duty conventionals, the 330 and 335. Their forward lighting system is said to provide broad, even light distribution with 40% better down-road coverage than conventional sealed beams.

The Model 325’s in-frame, bundled wiring and hoses as well as clean frame rails mean there are no obstructions to frustrate body installers.

The new truck will be part of Peterbilt’s continuing Models of Innovation Tour through the next few months.