Isuzu Forward N75
Page 37

If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Cab-over specifications are not always favoured by dyed-in-the-wool long-haul transport companies, but the more contemporary distribution, home-delivery, own-account and multi-drop blue-chip operators have been utilising the lightweight, versatile Isuzu Forward N75 7.5-tonner with great effect since its arrival in 2008. An industry leading body/payload potential should be enough to turn the heads of the non-believers. Choose a day cab and the shortest wheelbase and there is still more than 4,800kg to play with. Like-for-like average kerb weight can be up to 500kg lighter than traditional European-built trucks. In this day and age, it’s a no-brainer.
The 5.2-litre 190hp/513Nm engine is more than generous. This year 86% have been sold with automated Easyshift transmission, and N75 sits third in the 7.5-tonne league table with a 13% marketshare. It handles well, and its 2,040mm cab width, around 260mm narrower than its European competitors, means it can reach the places other trucks can’t.
Kevin Swallow (deputy technical editor, CM)