The local roll-out of new generation Isuzu models across the light- and medium-duty truck segments begins in August.

Both the N Series and F Series line-ups are set for significant updates with the first of the 6-cylinder F Series models powered by the 6.7-litre DB6A Euro 6 engine scheduled as the first phase of a progressive launch from August.

Isuzu New Zealand General manager Dave Ballantyne says it’s a very significant model range update for the marque, which has been New Zealand’s top-selling truck brand for the last two years and leads again to-date in 2025.

There are key improvements to the F-Series with all FV, FX and FY 6x4 and 8x4 models being equipped with full air disc brakes as standard, up to 30,000kg GVM.

The F Series has a new cab design featuring interior and exterior styling changes and there is a significantly enhanced range of standard safety features as part of the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) in all models.

The active safety system is informed by Isuzu’s ADAS camera technology, which is now mounted low on the windscreen, in combination with a long range milli-wave radar located in the centre of the bumper.

ADAS camera functions for the F Series enable the Lane Departure Warning, Attention Assist Warning, Traffic Movement Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition with Intelligent Speed Limiter, and Adaptive Driving Beam. 

ADAS camera and millimetre radar functions combine to enable Distance Warning System, Advanced Emergency Braking, and Full Speed Adaptive Cruise Control on selected models.

Passive systems include dual airbags, driver and passenger seat belt pretensioners, anti-intrusion beams in the door structure and an ECE-R93 front underrun beam behind the bumper.

Convenience features available on the F Series include auto wipers, passive entry and start, Bi-LED headlights with auto light sensing, plus LED cornering lights and daytime running lights.

A new 7.0-inch Multi Information Display is integrated in the instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch dashtop Co-Pilot AV multimedia touchscreen enables Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity.

Driver comfort is enhanced by an ISRI driver’s seat, a new steering wheel with multi-function controls, and auto climate control system. A new windscreen provides improved ultraviolet and infrared filtering, resulting in up to 99% UV sun protection and 59% reduction in radiated heat respectively.  

The 5.2-litre 4HK1 four-cylinder and new 6.7-litre DB6A six-cylinder engines are included in the F Series range. Both engines comply with Euro VI and pPNLT emission regulations and the new six-cylinder DB6A engine developed in conjunction with Cummins will be available in 260PS (191kW) and 300PS (221kW) power ratings.

Maximum torque figures are 883Nm between 1000-2070rpm on the 260PS version and 981Nm between 1000-2100rpm for the 300PS variant.

The new DB6A engine is an evolution of the B6.7 engine engineered to further reduce NOx and particulate matter emissions to meet Euro VI using SCR technology and without requiring exhaust gas recirculation. An integrated Jacobs engine compression brake is a new feature on the DB6A.

Both N and F Series models made their Australasian public debut at the recent Brisbane Truck Show. The models on show there are largely common with the NZ market.

“We’ve been working closely with Isuzu Australia to increase the amount of commonalty between the model line-ups we offer. But there are still NZ-specific models when it comes to things such as the tyre sizes and wheelbase options which best suit the New Zealand market,” Ballantyne says.

“There has already been plenty of dealer enquiry regarding models and specs and there was definitely a lift in enquiry after the Brisbane Truck Show. There were a lot of Kiwis over in Brisbane taking a look at the new models,” he says. 

“The new models have the looks and the new features which set them apart and the advanced safety features are a big step up.”

The Isuzu model rollout continues into Q4 of this year when the first of the updated N Series arrives. The launch plan is for all cab chassis models to be available at the same time, with factory built tipper models to follow in early 2026.

Among the notable features of the N Series is a new 9-speed dual clutch transmission option which is available with the four-cylinder 4JZ1 engine in selected models.