For the first time in two years, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America is in full production of gasoline-powered N-Series medium-duty trucks at the Spartan Motors factory in Charlotte, MI.
Gasoline-powered N-Series trucks used to be built under license by General Motors at its Janesville, WI plant, but that facility ceased operations in 2009.
The new 2012 N-Gas models are powered by the Vortec 6.0-liter small-block V8 engine that produces 297 horsepower at 4,300 rpm and generates 372 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission with double overdrive and lock-up torque converter for enhanced fuel economy and performance, Isuzu noted. This is an upgrade; previous N-Series gasoline models offered only a four-speed automatic.
Several gasoline-powered models are available for the N-Series, according to Isuzu. The first is the 12,000-lb. GVWR NPR model, with the single cab version available in wheelbases of 109, 132.5, 150 and 176 inches, while the crew cab comes in wheelbases of 150 and 176 inches. The second is the 14,500-lb. GVWR NPR-HD, with single cab wheelbases of 109, 132.5, 150 and 176 inches and crew cab wheelbases of 150 and 176 inches.
The company added that its gasoline-powered trucks will be available in Isuzu dealerships nationwide beginning this month.
