Earlier this year at the 2016 NTEA Work Truck Show, Isuzu revealed its 2018 FTR, an all-new entry in the Class 6 medium-duty truck segment. While there is still a bit of time before the 2018 FTR hits dealerships, Isuzu has been slowly releasing new and exciting information about the truck. The FTR is slated to go into production at a new facility in Charlotte, Michigan, in the middle of next year.
“This truck represents our vision of the future of the medium-duty truck industry,” Shaun Skinner, president of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, explained at NTEA’s 2016 Work Truck Show back in March. “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.”
REALIZE THE POWER
With a GVWR of 25,950 lbs and eight available wheelbase lengths—ranging from 152 to 248 inches, which can accommodate bodies from 14 to 30 ft long—the 2018 FTR needs the power to hustle and haul. Isuzu equipped its FTR with its turbocharged 5.2-liter 4HK1-TC engine, providing 215 hp and 520 lb-ft of torque. This engine will be paired with an Allison 6-speed automatic transmission with power take-off (PTO) capability.
This dock-height Class 6 truck will be equipped with Dana axles with 12,000-lb front capacity and 19,000-lb rear suspension. The FTR will roll on Bridgestone or Continental 11R22.5 (front highway, rear traction) tires fitted to 22.5-inch x 8.25-inch steel wheels. FTR features full air brakes, rear bolted suspension, rear leaf springs, and a 100-gal aluminum fuel tank on an 80 ksi-strength frame.
Featured Image: FTR’s tilt cab eases maintenance woes, while a front hood offers easy access to the washer fluid reservoir.
THE QUICK AND EASY PATH
FTR was designed to make life a little easier, whether it’s during preventive maintenance or urban maneuverability. With a 50-degree turning radius and turning lights for side-of-road illumination, FTR is made for delivering around town. Its tilt cab eases maintenance woes, while a front hood offers easy access to the washer fluid reservoir. Rain water channels on the top of the cab mean increased visibility during wetter days.
FTR features a passenger-side ground clearance mirror and driver-side wide entry step for ease of entry and exit. FTR’s doors open to 90 degrees, making the climb in and out easier.
NEW WAYS TO MOTIVATE
FTR’s spacious, three-across cab seating and adjustable armrest for driver comfort and fatigue reduction—not to mention the suspension seat with adjustable height control—make it a pleasure to drive. Its outstanding driver maneuverability and visibility promote safe driving in various environments and geographical locations. A few of FTR’s other creature comforts include:
- Overhead storage
- Multi-information display with three languages and 19 information points
- AM/FM/CD radio with AUX and USB
- DIN storage pockets and cup holder
- Tilt and telescopic steering column
- Parking air brake
- Large storage area behind the seats
Isuzu’s 2018 FTR is assembled in the US. Its low cost of ownership makes it a prime choice for your medium-duty needs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Headquartered in Anaheim, California, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. is the distributor of Isuzu commercial trucks in the US. Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. is a subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Limited, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. Find out more, visit www.isuzucv.com.
_______________________________________________________________________
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS: DECEMBER 2016 ISSUE
Did you enjoy this article?
Subscribe to the FREE Digital Edition of Modern WorkTruck Solutions magazine.