New IVECO Daily 4X4 gets extra safety

IVECO has upped the safety stakes in its Daily 4x4 range with the introduction of passenger and driver’s airbags in its latest model release, along with a host of other benefits.

The introduction of this additional safety equipment is is aimed at increasing the Daily’s appeal among mining and exploration customers, as well as in emergency service applications where OH&S requirements are extremely stringent.

In addition to airbags, the Daily is already well served with a front disc/rear drum brakes with ABS as well as IVECO ‘ESP 9’ safety program which features a range of active safety equipment including electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability program, anti-slip regulator and other driving aids.

The latest 4x4 model also adopts many of the interior and exterior styling changes introduced last year across the Daily van and cab/chassis range, which include a revised front grille, two-tone seating and a revised dashboard featuring a new central open storage area with USB sockets allowing more convenient charging of mobile devices and tablets.

Interior noise reductions of 4dB have also been claimed through the use of increased insulation, redesigned B Pillar swabs and a shape modification to the side mirrors which allows for quieter airflow.

Combined with an ISRI suspension seat for the driver (optional for the front passenger) the Daily 4x4 cabin is more comfortable than ever.

In this latest range, the IVECO 3.0 litre, Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine also receives a power and torque gain of 10hp and 30Nm, bringing total output to 180hp (135kW) and 430Nm at between 1250 to 3000 rpm.

The new models will continue to be available in both single and dual cab variants with GVMs ranging from a passenger car licence 4495kg to a no-cost optional 5500kg providing buyers with payloads of up to 2800kg. All vehicles offer a braked towing capacity of 3500kg.

Carry-over benefits include a true full-time mechanical 4x4 system with standard front, centre and rear differential locks that are engaged via dash-mounted buttons.

On the transmission front, the Daily uses the proven IVECO 6-speed synchromesh, single overdrive transmission, while the double low-range transfer case also carries over, boasting 24 speeds and an ultra-low 101:1 final ratio for crawling ability and off-road control. Two PTO outputs are also on offer for users wanting to operate hydraulic pumps and other auxiliary equipment.

Approach and departure angles on the latest models remain impressive with 48 and 39 degrees respectively (with rear under run bar in the upper position) along with a 153 degree break-over angle and 660mm wading depth using the Daily’s standard 9.5R17.5 tyres.

For users requiring a wider and more aggressive off-road tyre, the Daily 4x4 supports the fitment of aftermarket 37x12.5R17 tyres. This tyre size provides access to a broad range of rubber from leading tyre manufacturers. Speedo recalibration is undertaken electronically at the dealership during the customer pre-delivery process.

Serious off-roaders who regularly undertake deeper water crossings will also appreciate a fan disconnect feature to protect the fan from damage when crossing rivers and lakes.

Other standard features include a dash-mounted battery cut-off button which deactivates the vehicle’s electrical system (except for the instrument cluster and central locking), giving added peace of mind that the starter battery will always remain fresh even after extended periods without driving.

IVECO ANZ Product Manager, Marco Quaranta said the latest Daily 4x4 would open new markets for the model in Australia.

“Increasingly stringent OH&S regulations are now requiring many vehicles to be fitted with airbags, particularly from the mining and exploration industry as well as in the emergency services sector,” Mr Quaranta said.

“The latest Daily 4x4 now addresses this situation and the enquiry rate from these type of companies and organisations has already increased considerably.

“For some recreational users the inclusion of airbags has also been well-received, allowing these customers to confidently tour the country with even greater peace of mind.