Following a two-year hiatus, gasoline-powered N-Series trucks are once again available from Isuzu. Full production of NPR and NPQ models got underway May 3 at the Spartan Motors, Inc., assembly facility in Charlotte, Mich.

Previously, N-Series gasoline trucks had been assembled by General Motors in Janesville, Wis. That facility closed in 2009.

The new 2012 N-Gas models, which complement Isuzu's diesel-powered N-Series trucks, are powered by the Vortec 6.0-liter small-block V8 engine. It produces 297 horsepower at 4,300 rpm and generates 372 lb ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission with double overdrive and lock-up torque converter for enhanced fuel economy and performance. Previous N-Series gasoline models were offered with a four-speed automatic.

"With the introduction of these new models, our dealers once again offer the broadest range of low-cab-forward solutions in the industry," said Shaun Skinner, executive vice president and general manager of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America. "We are especially pleased that Spartan -- one of the industry's most respected manufacturers of high-quality specialty chassis and vehicles -- is assembling our N-Series gas trucks. Their expertise and quality workmanship will be an enormous benefit to us, to our dealers, and to the end users of our vehicles."

The gasoline-powered trucks will be available in Isuzu dealerships nationwide beginning this month.

A full range of gasoline-powered models is available:

NPR (12,000-lb GVWR)
* Single Cab in wheelbases of 109, 132.5, 150 and 176 inches
* Crew Cab in wheelbases of 150 and 176 inches

NPR-HD (14,500-lb GVWR)
* Single Cab in wheelbases on 109, 132.5, 150 and 176 inches
* Crew Cab in wheelbases of 150 and 176 inches

More info: Isuzu Commercial Truck of America