Very few New Zealand main routes demand as much from a truck and a driver as State Highway 2 between Napier and Gisborne.

The 215km run includes narrow gorges and tight corners, ever-changing gradients, and a wide variety of surface quality – all of which were taken into consideration by Freedom Transport’s Samreet (Sam) Virdi when he needed a new truck for a double-shifted Palmerston North to Gisborne grocery run.

Sam wanted his drivers – and himself for the occasions when he’s behind the wheel – to have plenty of horsepower, a high level of comfort, and a full roster of modern safety features. And he reckons he’s found a good MAN for the job with his New Generation TGX 26.640 6x4 tractor unit.

Sam’s Freedom Transport is a four truck operation running a Scania, a Mercedes-Benz, a Freightliner Cascadia, and since the beginning of August, this new MAN TGX.

The Napier to Gisborne highway is no joke – it’s one of the toughest routes in the country for both trucks and drivers. And since Cyclone Gabrielle, it has only become more challenging. The good news is that the repairs from the cyclone have made significant progress.

A highlight of this test drive was getting to operate a new European truck through this demanding route, with the added benefit of the driver comfort that comes with it. The MAN TGX 26.640 6x4 tractor unit did not disappoint.

I started my drive in Napier, towing a quad semi Schmitz Cargobull trailer, heading about  halfway up the Pacific Coast Highway to Wairoa with owner Sam Virdi alongside in the passenger seat.

Entering the cab is a smooth experience, thanks to the sturdy grab handles and well-spaced steps. Inside, the cab has a modern design with ample headroom and plenty of storage. I did find it a bit tricky to find a spot for my water bottle, but overall everything was within easy reach.