Why Isuzu Trucks are perfect for the recovery sector

Commercial Motor
October 20, 2025

Isuzu Truck UK has carved out a strong niche in the UK recovery industry, thanks to its reputation for vehicle build quality, reliability, payload capacity, and a tailored approach to aftersales support.

In particular, the 7.5-tonne N-Series has become a staple for recovery fleets across the country. With its compact footprint and the option of a factorybuilt crew cab, it has proven itself for operators, whether working on tight urban streets, at the side of the motorway, or on remote rural roads.

At 7.5 tonnes, Isuzu essentially has two main offerings: the 3-litre diesel, 150hp N75.150; and the more powerful 187hp, 5.2-litre diesel offered in the N75.190, featuring a choice of either a manual or automated Easyshift gearbox, and either a standard day cab or, on the N75.190, a crewcab configuration. Offering great flexibility for bodybuilders means recovery operators have the option to tailor builds to their business, rather than simply opting for an off-the-shelf product. Popular options include slide bed, low slider and twin deck.

Lee Tansley, national fleet sales manager of Isuzu Truck UK, says: “The recovery sector demands exceptional reliability, which is why the N-Series excels. Over the years, we’ve seen our vehicles become a trusted workhorse for recovery operators across the UK. With customers like Recovery World returning year after year, it sends a clear message about the suitability of our trucks for such a demanding application.”

Isuzu Truck UK’s reputation for offering a strong but lightweight chassis means operators can benefit from an additional 500kg to 750kg of payload versus some other manufacturers’ chassis – and in certain instances, that can be the difference between being able to carry a particular make and model of car or van, and an operator needing a larger vehicle – particularly given the increasing weight of some new electric vehicles.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

One business to recently acquire a fleet of new Isuzu trucks is Newquay-based Fourwinds Garage, which opted for three new Isuzu N75.190s.

“The chassis is remarkably strong and the body we spec is equally tough,” says Dave Henwood, MD at Fourwinds Garage. “Combined, they are perfectly suited to the recovery industry. When you factor in the manoeuvrability and small footprint of the Isuzu, it’s simply the right tool for the job given the narrow, winding roads we often find ourselves working on here in Cornwall.”

Fitted with low approach slide beds, to facilitate loading prestige or sports cars with minimal ground clearance, the company’s new Isuzu trucks were also customised with features including a remote operated winch, chassis-mounted lockers and a selection of LED lightbars and strobes to increase visibility at the roadside. 

The design of the Isuzu 7.5-tonner means the cab sits very low on the chassis, maximising direct field of vision for the driver, with the deep cut side windows on the cab helping to reduce blind spots.

Recovery operators can also choose from Isuzu Truck UK’s heavier offerings, which centre around its proven 11- and 13.5-tonne F-Series. Available as 4x2 chassis cabs with twin rear wheels, both models feature a ‘big truck’ interior, coupled with a 5.2-litre, 240hp diesel engine with Easyshift automated gearbox, though fleets can also opt for a manual transmission on one of the 11-tonne models.

Like its smaller siblings, the F-Series also benefits from a smaller footprint on the road, without compromising payload – a fact that prompted Recovery World to specify its first 13.5-tonne F135.240 in 2022, fitted with a 6-tonne, steel slide bed.

Customers enjoy the reassurance of an experienced dealer network, plus a three-year unlimited mileage warranty on every new chassis. 

Isuzu Truck UKs dedicated Customer CARE team also ensures every operator, regardless of fleet size, receives the same high level of service and support.

“The nationwide dealer network back-up is there when you need it, and the Isuzu Truck UK Customer CARE operation is absolutely outstanding, ensuring that our vehicles perform to their maximum at all times,” comments Max Engledew, director of Recovery World. 

- This article was previously published in Commercial Motor, to subscribe see the latest Commercial Motor subscription offer

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