Exclusive spy shots of the next MAN cab show that six years on from its acquisition by the Volkswagen (VW) Group, there is still little evidence of its intention to develop synergies with sister brand Scania.
Both brands appear to be pursuing separate driveline programmes, with the adoption of the Scania 12+2 Opticruise transmission only in a limited number of MAN variants.
There had been expectations that MAN’s much-needed replacement cab would be based on Scania’s new range, currently part way through its launch programme. This has been backed up by rumours from VW Group suggesting a new cab for MAN’s heavy truck range is imminent.
However, as these scoop pictures taken during hot climate testing in Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountains show, the next MAN cab to arrive seems to be a makeover of the current unit.
But they do give some hints as to the likely styling changes. If this disguised vehicle includes the new cab, the front panel appears remarkably similar, with only minor changes to the air intakes.
However, the side styling is different. Most prominent on the doors is a smooth curve at the bottom of the window aperture, replacing the sharp dog leg, with a reshaped door handle.
The previously plain wheelarch is echoed by a distinct crease, and the pronounced signature five-line fluting appears to have changed to three less-pronounced strips.
