Isuzu Truck is to return to the UK’s 12-tonne GVW truck market, introducing a Euro-6 version of the F-series with a weight-saving four-cylinder engine.
The company’s first 12-tonner, in 2008, used a six-cylinder, 7.8-litre Euro-4 engine, rated at 240hp. But it was heavy and operators preferred the alternative 11-tonner, with a four-cylinder 5.2-litre, 210hp engine.
Isuzu subsequently dropped the 12-tonner in favour of the 11-tonner.
For Euro-6, Isuzu has re-worked its four-cylinder, 5.2-litre HK1 engine, adopting a two-stage turbocharger with variable geometry turbine on the second (high-pressure) stage. Its rating for the new 12-tonner is 237hp and torque output of 765Nm is superior to that of the former six-cylinder engine.
Isuzu Truck (UK) product general manager Bob Morris pointed out the four-cylinder EGR plus SCR engine is 130kg lighter than the six-cylinder, off-setting the additional weight of the Euro-6 emissions kit.
The new model, designated F119.240, is due to arrive in the UK in October. It will be offered in four wheelbase lengths from 3,790mm to 5,320mm and with the option of steel or air-suspension at the rear and with either six-speed manual or Easyshift automated gearboxes.
Isuzu marketing director Keith Child estimates that the company will sell around 100 of the new model next year, but that it will inevitably impact on sales of the 11-tonne F110.210.
