Iveco Daily 4x4 completes Aussie testing

The launch of Iveco’s Daily 4x4 in Australia is a step closer with a evaluation unit doing an extensive testing local regime

In the first stage of durability testing, the new Iveco Daily 4x4 completed an arduous trek of over 13,000 kilometres at almost full GVM, taking in the well-known Strzelecki and Finke Desert Race tracks as well as spending time in Gulf Country and Outback New South Wales.

Iveco says that approximately 85 per cent of journey was undertaken over rough gravel roads with corrugations and heavy bulldust, all the while diagnostic equipment recorded data including fuel use, operating temperatures and load cycling information via the truck’s CAN-bus. Oil sampling was also regularly undertaken throughout the journey.

Conducting the durability testing over the three-week period was Iveco Australia Product Support Manager, Claus Hoffman, who said the vehicle performed faultlessly and exhibited many notable improvements over its predecessor.

"One thing that really strikes you about the new vehicle especially in rough terrain is that the cabin is a much nicer and more comfortable place to be," Mr Hoffman said.

"The noise levels are significantly reduced compared to the earlier model, while dust suppression is also far superior and next to none. Adoption of the new cab design (as seen in the current Daily 4x2 range) has also improved vision, driver appointments and ergonomics.

“And despite the test vehicle being a darker coloured dual cab with a considerable space to cool and not having tinted windows, the air conditioning did an excellent job, even when the mercury reached almost 50 degrees,” he added.

With no operating issues to report and the new Daily 4x4 holding up very well to the rigours of the endurance testing, the vehicle has now started its next stage of review with local Iveco engineers examining componentry for wear and tear.

New Daily 4x4 features

Carry-over features of the new model include a true full-time 4x4 system with standard front, centre and rear differential locks coupled to a chassis and suspension setup that provides outstanding traction and superior articulation over the most difficult terrain. The double low range transfer case also remains, boasting an ultra-low 1:101 final ratio for unparalleled crawling ability.

Under the skin, the new engine adopts a Euro 6 emission rating using SCR technology, while maintaining the performance of its predecessor. The 3.0-litre powerplant produces 125kW @ between 3000-35000rpm, with torque of 400Nm @ between 1250-3000rpm.

The engine is coupled to the proven Iveco six-speed synchromesh, double overdrive transmission.

Other benefits of the new vehicle include a revised braking system for improved stopping power and the introduction of ESP (Electronic Stability Program).

With its car licence-friendly 4495kg GVM or no-cost option 5500kg GVM re-rating, 3500kg braked towing capacity and single and dual cab options, the new Daily 4x4 is expected to continue the strong penetration of the current Daily 4x4 into markets such as emergency services, remote area maintenance as well as for hard core recreational touring.

The new Daily 4x4 is expected to launch in Australia in the third quarter of this year.

Iveco Daily 4x4 completes Aussie testing

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