Hino Australia is poised to launch a new-generation 300 Series light-duty truck range.
The all-new model range was previewed at the Brisbane Truck Show in May and will go on sale in Australia in August 2011.
The company says the entire 300 series range has been redesigned outside and inside, and was subject to record levels of Australian development input.
As a result it offers the best in improved driveability, aerodynamics, vision, cabin ergonomics, comfort and convenience, ease of maintenance and vehicle security.
The new Hino 300 Series has an impressive active and passive safety features.
All models have dual SRS airbags, four-wheel ventilated disc brakes incorporating ABS braking, electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and in an Australia first for a light duty truck, vehicle stability control (VSC) is now offered as an optional extra.
The new, more fuel-efficient range has a class-leading combination of power and torque, with up to 121kW of power and 464Nm of torque from its Euro 5-compliant diesel engine.
All wide cab models have a six-speed transmission in either manual or automatic, with the automatic transmission now available on a greater range of models - making Hino the only Japanese truck manufacturer to offer a full automatic transmission in the light duty market.
All manual models for Australia have Hino's ES (Easy Start) hill-start assist.
The company says the Hino 300 Series has a new exterior design that offers class-leading aerodynamics for improved fuel economy; the new wide cab model's coefficient of drag is significantly better than that of its major competitors.
Driver vision has been improved, with new multi-position electric controlled and heated main and spotter mirrors, and slim A-pillars that greatly reduce forward blind spots.
In another light duty truck safety first, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps on wide cab models are available as an optional fitment.
Cabin entry and exit has been improved, with larger door apertures, wider opening doors, larger steps, increased foot and leg space, and even a collapsible gearshift lever. The cabin interior has been completely redesigned for improved comfort, convenience, storage and driving comfort, including new seats, instruments, switches, audio systems and remote central locking with integrated engine immobiliser.
All models have factory-fitted air conditioning while crew cab models have an additional rear air-conditioner unit.
All wide cab models now have a driver's suspension seat as standard equipment.
Medium, long and extra-long wheelbase wide cab models have an increased driving range, thanks to a new 70-litre sub tank giving a total fuel capacity of 170 litres.
An expanded range of the Hino Hybrid 300 Series models will also be launched in Australia. The New Zealand launch date for the new model range is yet to be confirmed but more than likely will be the last quarter of 2011.
