Heavy Duty Trucking Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Isuzu FTR Scores Strongly in Independent Testing

The new four-cylinder Isuzu FTR truck achieved a strong all-around showing in independent testing, according to results announced by Isuzu commercial Truck of America.

by Staff
January 2, 2018
Isuzu FTR Scores Strongly in Independent Testing

Photo: Isuzu Commercial Truck of America

2 min to read


Photo: Isuzu Commercial Truck of America

The new four-cylinder Isuzu FTR truck achieved a competitive all-around showing in independent testing, according to results announced by Isuzu Commercial Truck of America.

Ad Loading...

The program tested the acceleration, braking, turning radius, hill climbing, and fuel economy of the FTR. Tests were conducted by Pro Formance Group in Chandler, Ariz., and the results were certified by the Sports Car Club of America.

Ad Loading...

“We’re thrilled with the results of these tests, which were conducted independently, verified and certified,” said Shaun Skinner, president of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America.

One of the Isuzu FTR’s strengths was in fuel economy for both mountain routes and in stop-and-go city driving. The acceleration tests, which looked at 0-20, 0-30, 0-40, 0-50, 0-60, and 30-50 miles per hour acceleration, showed how well the 5.2 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine managed across the board. The engine produces 215 horsepower and 520 lbs.-ft. of torque.

In braking, the FTR averaged a 55-0 mile per hour stopping distance of 180 feet and a 30-0 mile per hour stopping distance of 53 feet.

The hill-climb tests measured time and speed to altitude. From 3,520 to 4,500 feet, the FTR averaged a time of 05:15.97 minutes at a maximum speed of 34.6 miles per hour, and averaged 02:23.69 minutes at a maximum speed of 35.1 miles per hour from 2,180 to 2,600 feet. In maneuverability testing, the FTR had a measured curb-to-curb turning diameter of 49.0833 feet.

The testing methods were designed by PFG to emphasize consistency and repeatability of results. In addition to SCCA — which sanctioned, observed and validated all testing procedures — PFG engaged Trivinci Systems of Ashburn, Va., to provide all instrumentation and an engineer to capture, record, and analyze all data during testing.

More Fuel Smarts

Solar panels on top of a red Class 8 truck sleeper cab
Equipmentby Deborah LockridgeMarch 15, 2026

Vanair Introduces Solar, Battery Power Ecosystem for Class 8 Trucks

The company’s expanded EPEQ ecosystem includes flexible solar panels, lithium batteries, hydraulic power systems, and a portable fast charger for electric trucks.

Read More →
HDT Talks Trucking thumbnail saying: NACFE's Messy Middle: Which Fuel Wins?
Fuel SmartsMarch 11, 2026

Run on Less “Messy Middle” Data Shows Multiple Paths for Truck Powertrains [Listen]

Listen as Mike Roeth of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency shares insights into battery-electric trucks, natural gas, biofuels, and clean diesel on this episode of HDT Talks Trucking.

Read More →
YouTube thumbnail with Mike Roeth of NACFE saying "NACFE's Messy Middle: Which Fuel Wins?"
Fuel Smartsby Deborah LockridgeMarch 11, 2026

Run on Less “Messy Middle” Data Shows Multiple Paths Forward for Truck Powertrains [Watch]

NACFE's Run on Less - Messy Middle project demonstrates the power of data in helping to guide the future of alternative fuels and powertrains for heavy-duty trucks.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Mike Kucharski, vice president, JKC Trucking.
Fuel Smartsby Jack RobertsMarch 10, 2026

Trucking Executive Warns Fuel Spike from Middle East Conflict Hitting Fleets Fast

Mike Kucharski, vice president of refrigerated carrier JKC Trucking, says diesel price jumps tied to global instability are squeezing carriers already struggling with weak freight rates.

Read More →
A mechanic in a workshop leans over the open engine compartment of a large yellow vehicle, inspecting components while holding a tablet.
Sponsoredby Kristy CoffmanMarch 9, 2026

Smarter Maintenance Strategies to Keep Trucks Rolling

In today’s cost-conscious market, fleets are finding new ways to get more value from every truck on the road. See how smarter maintenance strategies can boost uptime, control costs and drive stronger long-term returns.

Read More →
Group of researchers and engineers standing next to an electric heavy-duty truck used in Purdue’s wireless charging project.
Fuel Smartsby News/Media ReleaseFebruary 3, 2026

Researchers Demonstrate Wireless Charging of Electric Heavy-Duty Truck at Highway Speeds

Purdue researchers demonstrated a high-power wireless charging system capable of delivering energy to electric heavy-duty trucks at highway speeds, advancing the concept of electrified roadways for freight transportation.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Illustration showing diesel exhaust fluid pump sign and EPA headquarters
Equipmentby Deborah LockridgeFebruary 3, 2026

EPA Wants to Know: Are DEF De-Rates Really Needed for Diesel Emissions Compliance?

The Environmental Protection Agency is asking diesel engine makers to provide information about diesel exhaust fluid system failures as it considers changes to emissions regulations.

Read More →
SponsoredFebruary 1, 2026

Stop Watching Footage, Start Driving Results

6 intelligent dashcam tactics to improve safety and boost ROI

Read More →
Fuel Smartsby Deborah LockridgeJanuary 29, 2026

California: Clean Truck Check Rules Still in Force for Out-of-State Trucks, Despite EPA Disapproval

The Environmental Protection Agency said California can’t enforce its Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance Regulation, known as Clean Truck Check, on vehicles registered outside the state. But California said it will keep enforcing the rule.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Illustration of Department of Justice building superimposed by truck exhaust stacks
Fuel SmartsJanuary 27, 2026

Justice Department Pulls Back on Criminal Prosecution of Diesel Emissions Deletes

The Trump administration has announced it will no longer criminally prosecute “diesel delete” cases of truck owners altering emissions systems in violation of EPA regulations. What does that mean for heavy-duty fleets?

Read More →