Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc is entering the Class 6 medium-duty truck segment with the 2018 Isuzu FTR, which is slated to go into production at a new facility in Charlotte, Michigan, in mid-2017.
Among the highlights:
• 25,950 pounds GVWR.
• The FTR will be available in eight wheelbase lengths ranging from 152 to 248 inches, accommodating bodies from 14 to 30 feet long.
• The FTR is a dock height Class 6 truck.
• The turbocharged Isuzu 5.2-liter 4HK1-TC engine propelling the FTR will generate 215 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque.
• The engine will be mated to an Allison six-speed automatic transmission with power take-off (PTO) capability. The engine has a B10 life of 310,000 miles—as with all Isuzu’s diesel engines—so 90% of them are expected to reach that point without an overhaul.
• Dana axles will have capacities of 12,000 pounds up front and 19,000 pounds rear suspension.
• Bridgestone or Continental 11R22.5 tires will be fitted to 22.5” × 8.25” steel wheels.
When Isuzu announced the truck at NTEA’s 2016 Work Truck Show in March, Shaun Skinner, president of Isuzu, said, “This truck represents our vision of the future of the medium-duty truck industry. The overall concept of the FTR is to bring to our customers the next generation medium-duty low-cab-forward truck, one that features a clean, durable, highly-efficient four-cylinder engine and is the best Class 6 choice for urban pickup and delivery. The letters ‘FTR’ don’t stand for ‘future,’ however this truck represents the future, and it will be here—soon.”
The FTR can be spec’d with either a 50- or 100-gallon fuel tank, giving it “incredible cruising distance” along with the 4-cylinder engine’s fuel economy. The company notes its expertise in that 4-cylinder niche and that it’s a first for the class.
The low-cab-forward design increases visibility and maneuverability, according to Isuzu, and a steer-wheel cut of 50 degrees will give the FTR a sharp turning radius.
Isuzu’s 2017 NPR-HD, NPR-XD, NQR, and NRR low-cab-forward trucks offer gross vehicle weight ratings of 14,500-19,500 lbs and are powered by the 5.2L turbo diesel producing 215 hp and 452 lb-ft. of torque. All ride on an Aisin 6-speed double overdrive transmission. The Reach van continues with a 3.0L turbo diesel producing 150 hp and 282 lb-ft. of torque. All models include the Isuzu Diagnostic Service System, which allows an Isuzu dealer to provide the truck owner with a “health report” on vehicles. ♦