By Tariq Kamal, Work Truck, September 2007

The all-new 2008 N-Series features a larger, more comfortable cab, more powerful engines, and a range of wheelbases to accommodate nearly all applications.

It’s safe to say that Class 3-5 work truck drivers have come to rely on the Isuzu N-Series for its dependability, maneuverability, and hauling power. The best-selling low cab forward (LCF) for the past 21 years has an impressive track record: 86 percent of those sold since 1986 are still registered and in service today.

The all-new 2008 model aims to maintain Isuzu’s position as a leader in its market. The redesigned N-Series is built from the driver out, featuring a new cab, more powerful engines, and a range of wheelbases to suit nearly all applications.

IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT

The distinctive Hexacube cab design has been heightened and widened for increased space. The driver and passenger doors now swing out 85 degrees for easy entry and loading. Low-cut side windows and larger side mirrors with a built-in convex section offer increased visibility. In the NQR and NPR HD Crew Cab, an entire seven-man crew can ride to the job site in comfort.

Storage areas have been added overhead and behind the seats, and a fold-down workstation gives drivers a place to work on documents or a laptop computer without leaving their seats. The newly-designed dashboard is not only more ergonomic, but more functional as well — in-dash reservoir access means drivers can check and refill the brake fluid and washer fluid from inside the cab.

UNDER THE ‘HOOD’

When locked in the “down” position, the N-Series cab conceals one of Isuzu’s key attractions for the medium-duty market: a choice between gasoline and diesel engines, both of which got a boost in horsepower for 2008.

The 5.2L diesel engine delivers 205 hp (up from 190), 441 lb.-ft. of torque, and enhanced fuel economy, as it was designed to meet the 2007 federal emissions standards. The new Aisin A465 heavy-duty, 6-speed automatic transmission with double overdrive is standard, as is a dash-mounted oil level check switch and light.

Drivers who prefer a gasoline engine can order the NPR and NPR HD with a 325-hp (up from 300) Vortec 6.0L V-8, which delivers 360 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s mated to the Hydra-Matic 4L80 4-speed automatic transmission, which comes standard with lockup torque converter and overdrive.

BETWEEN THE AXLES

Few vehicles in any class offer the range of wheelbases available for the Isuzu N-Series. The axles are set between 109 and 212 inches apart, accommodating any service body between 10 and 24 feet in length. Even the Crew Cab can accommodate a 12- to 16-ft. body, ensuring plenty of space for tools and equipment in one trip, even with a full crew.

The N-Series’ tapered-leaf front suspension and multi-leaf rear suspension carry the load, while the new Electronic Braking Distribution system provides the stopping power. This system measures load weight distribution to balance braking power across all four wheels, front-to-back, and is standard across the model range.

STAYING POWER

Isuzu offers a warranty package for the N-Series that matches the truck’s reputation for durability. The diesel line’s three-year/unlimited-mileage coverage includes the chassis, engine, transmission, drivetrain, and frame rails, plus four-year/unlimited for corrosion and five-year/unlimited for the emissions system, while the gasoline models offer similar terms with mileage limits on some parts.

Routine maintenance is the key to longevity, and the N-Series’ 10,000-mile oil change interval means fewer service stops. Plus, air intake filters, electrical cab connections, and the windshield wiper motor are all accessible from an easy-to-remove panel at the front of the cab.

The 2008 Isuzu N-Series is available in dealerships now, with the Crew Cab set to hit showrooms later this year.

AT A GLANCE

Features offered on the all-new Isuzu 2008 N-Series include:

• Wider and taller cab with greater visibility and storage.
• Choice of the 5.2L diesel engine, with 205 hp or the Vortec 6.0L gasoline engine with 325hp.
• Wheelbase lengths to accommodate service bodies between 10 and 24 feet.
• Electronic Braking Distribution for safer stopping power.
• 10,000-mile oil change interval.
• Front panel access to air intake filters, electrical cab connections, and windshield wiper motor.

ONYX EDITION

In the market for a new cargo vehicle that breaks the utilitarian work truck mold? Look no further than the NPR HD Onyx Edition, a powerful diesel truck with a sleek, modern, almost sports-car look.

"The Onyx Edition demonstrates all of the wonderful features for the 2008 N-Series and emphasizes the durability and versatility of this great product," says Todd Bloom, vice president, marketing, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc. "It will appeal to image-conscious buyers who want to convey a strong persona for their business. In fact, many of our dealers will use the new Onyx Edition as a demonstrator."

It would be hard to blame them. The Onyx is visually striking, with its all-black enamel finish and silver highlights, not to mention the stainless steel wheel simulators. A cab-mounted air deflector creates a smooth, aerodynamic line from the top of the cab to the 14-foot Supreme van body. Inside, the Onyx comes with standard air conditioning and an AM/FM CD sound system.