Isuzu courts fleet buyers

A restricted drive event at a Victorian proving ground has seen potential fleet buyers sample selected models from Isuzu's medium- and heavy-duty ranges, with participants jumping behind the wheel of a number of the manufacturer's F and FY Series products. A locally engineered FSR 700 Auto was also on hand.

The day gave attendees a rare opportunity to sample multiple Isuzu models back to back, with the proving ground affording a safe and secure environment in which customers could concentrate purely on the vehicles on offer over a diverse range of circuits, with terrain spanning everything from simulated highway to undulating back roads.

Peter Miles of Four Seasons Waste in Geelong said the breadth and quality of the test fleet was beyond reproach.

"We do mostly curb-side council work, so it was good to come here today knowing that all the trucks were robust AMTs, which is what we’re interested in," he said.

"It was great to have a hands-on drive of the 8x4s and the 6x4s. In particular, we're interested in the smaller dual-control trucks for our application."

Rio Tinto's Lindsay Chambers singled out the 10x4, 295hp auto FYX 2500 as a potential acquisition for his fleet, describing it as, “…great to drive, very powerful, responsive and very comfortable and quiet in the cab too".

Mr Chambers also praised the 8x4 FYJ 2000 for its smooth ride.

According to Isuzu's National Fleet Manager, Les Spaltman, the event highlighted the adaptability of the Isuzu range.

"With the Isuzu F and FY Series, we’re lucky enough to have the most versatile range on the Australian market," he said.

"All are powered by our renowned SiTEC Series III turbo-diesel engines and offer a range of wheelbase, transmission and GVM options, presenting a model for just about every application in the medium to heavy segment."