[Moppie]

The US really does have some interesting differences.

All the Hino's Iv known have been very, very, very reliable, and very cost efficient to run.
But, they are sort of a base model truck here, very capable of doing their job, but lacking in little driver extras, like electric windows, A/C, fully carpeted and lined cab, etc. All things that if you spend 8-10 hours a day a truck make that little bit more comfy.
Clearly the US spec trucks are different. However, I can attest that their drive lines are very strong, and the new models all use a new, much nice friendly gear box. Its very car like.


I would be very interested in the Isuzu models you get over there, as Curtis mentioned the NPR range was very popular.
Again, well proven and very reliable, but also not much fun on a long journey.
However, they have just released a whole new lune up of completely redesigned models, and they have done a lot of work on the Cab, making them much more comfortable.
If the new line up is the same or similar, to whats available in the states then its definitely worth a look.


That said, like anything, the best way to find the right one, is to have a look yourself, and drive them.
Iv driven plenty of the "little" 4cylinder diesels though, and they are actualy very capable little engines. Don't let the number of cylinders fool you, 5L is still 5L, its a lot of motor, especialy when turbo charged.

If I was doing the shopping, knowing that the truck was going to be used for work only, and I had to pay the fuel bills, I would stay away from the big Yank V8s. Quite simply the extra power isn't worth the extra cost.
Just make sure that if your doing a lot of highway driving you talk your boss into the Turbo 4cyl, or one thats slightly more powerful than you think you might need.
A truck hats working flat out all the time because its underpowered will actually use more fuel, than one that is slightly over powered and doesn't have to work as hard.


Do you get FUSO's in the States still as well?
We just got a couple of new Canters at work, and they are much, much nicer trucks than the old models.