For the first time in two years, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America has resumed production of gasoline-powered N-Series medium-duty trucks. The vehicles are being manufactured at the Spartan Motors factory in Charlotte, MI. Gasoline-powered N-Series trucks used to be built under license by General Motors, but that arrangement ended in 2009.
The new 2012 gas models are powered by the Vortec 6.0L small-block V8 engine that produces 297 hp. at 4,300 rpm and generates 372 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a new 6-spd. automatic transmission with double overdrive and lock-up torque converter for enhanced fuel economy and performance, Isuzu noted. Previous N-Series gasoline models offered only a 4-spd. automatic.
“With the introduction of these new models, our dealers once again offer the broadest range of low-cab-forward solutions in the industry,” said Shaun Skinner, executive vice president and general manager of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America.
Isuzu is offering the 12,000-lb. GVWR NPR and the 14,500-lb. GVWR NPR-HD with the single cab version available in wheelbases of 109, 132.5, 150 and 176 in., while the crew cab comes in wheelbases of 150 and 176 in.
The company added that its gasoline-powered trucks will be available in Isuzu dealerships nationwide beginning this month.www.isuzucv.com
