2008 sees probably one of the biggest launches in the history of the UK truck industry with the introduction of a brand new modular range of vehicles from Isuzu Truck UK, ranging from 3.5 tonnes up to 18 tonnes gvw. Already well-established in the 3.5t to 7.5t sectors, the current range of Isuzu models in this sector will be replaced with immediate effect by a new range. Concurrent with this will be the introduction of the new 4×2 rigid heavy truck range, at 11, 12, 15 and 18 tonne gross vehicle weights – these weights of vehicles are completely new to the Isuzu product portfolio in the UK.
The new range of vehicles will be marketed under 2 names. At 3.5 tonnes ALL vehicles will be given the “Grafter” name (previously this name applied only to Isuzu’s pre-bodied 3.5t dropsides and tippers – now it will apply to all Isuzu 3.5t model derivatives). All the remaining Isuzu models above 3.5 tonnes gvw (that’s 5t up to18t) will be marketed under Isuzu’s new “Forward” name.
Announcing details of the complete new truck range for 2008, Nikki King, Managing Director, Isuzu Truck UK said, “The truck range we are launching today in the UK is a truly global product designed to operate in all 163 countries in which Isuzu operates. This year, Isuzu trucks are getting bigger and better. Whilst globally Isuzu is the world’s number-one diesel engine manufacturer dedicated to producing the best commercial vehicles, now we can offer our customers an even more serious proposition with a full range of models for the UK market.”
From 3.5t up to 18t, the 2008 Isuzu truck range comes with even more durability, practicality and reliability, as well as significantly improved levels of comfort and safety for the driver.
Isuzu’s popular Easyshift gearbox that is standard already on certain existing models will also be available initially on Isuzu’s new 11 tonne rigid. At this time the rest of the new Forward range will have manual gearboxes fitted as standard.
Probably unique to Isuzu is the fact that many key components, including the new cab, are shared across the range. The entire Grafter and Forward ranges, for example, only use two types of door, the nearside and the offside (with the exception of the rear doors on the 2 crew cabs that Isuzu offers at 7.5t and 12t).
Seriously Practical
Consolidating the proven Isuzu reputation for impressive payload capability, the new Isuzu’s remain very competitive in many of the weight categories in which they will compete.
Seriously Safer
Isuzu’s new stronger cab (Isuzu’s new Hexapod design) has been developed with safety in mind and complies with many of the world’s stringent crash test specifications. Across the entire UK range all models are fitted with the driver and passenger air bags as standard, whilst also there are thoughtful touches such as the low profile door windows which removes the potentially dangerous pedestrian blind spot.
Seriously Simpler
Every model uses exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) with Isuzu’s diesel particulate diffuser to meet today’s Euro 4 standards and negates the need for urea based additives.
Seriously Robust
The entire range is now more robust than ever before having undergone an exhaustive testing programme, with prototypes being driven the equivalent of 33 times around the world. Of course, with Isuzu, nothing is left to chance and the full range is supported by Isuzu’s serious warranty package. In 1996 when ITUK first started they offered 3-years unlimited mileage warranty on their products and this is being extended across all the new models right up to 18 tonnes
– an industry first in the UK – plus this warranty package includes 3-years Isuzu Roadside assistance.
Seriously Generous
Isuzu has packed the range full of new features inside and out, offering standard specifications that include many extras that would only appear as options on other manufacturers’ vehicles. With luxuries such as suspension seats (not below 7.5t gvw), radio and CD player, central locking, electric windows, SRS airbags, pre-tensioner seat belts and even key less door entry, drivers can look forward to getting behind the wheel of one of the roomiest, comfiest, safest and well-equipped cabs on the market.
Seriously Superior Service
However, with Isuzu some things never change, especially the company’s industry leading customer CARE programme, which recently scooped the prestigious European Business Award for Customer Focus. This innovate approach to customer care is backed by the company’s biggest and most experienced network of approved dealers, giving operators the best possible ownership experience.
“This is undoubtedly our biggest launch ever. We are now offering more vehicle choice than ever before – 27 different models to be precise – more equipment and more comfort levels, not forgetting more safety features, all of which is standard across the range. Our products have always offered good fuel economy, low emissions, bigger payloads and low running costs but as an organisation we offer peace of mind too with our award winning customer service. This combination really does make us and our products a serious proposition for our current and future customers. We now offer a seriously comprehensive and attractive range of commercial vehicles, built for today’s demanding commercial vehicle market,” added Nikki King.
Isuzu Truck (UK) Limited
Keith Child – Marketing Director
Tel: 01707 282937
Email: keith.child@isuzutruck.co.uk
www.isuzutruck.co.uk
1 Comment
I am from Papua New Guinea where road conditions here are not that good. I have just purchased an Isuzu 3.5 truck that would be mostly used in urban roads where it is not sealed. Is there any recommended partsor accesories that could be adaptable for my Isuzu truck for the bad road conditions that my truck will be mostly running on?