Product Code Database
The Isuzu Fowādo (also known as the Isuzu F-Series) is a line of medium-to-heavy-duty commercial vehicles manufactured by Isuzu since 1970, following the earlier TY model which occupied the same slot in the market. All F-series trucks are cab over designs and the cabin comes fully built from the factory. Most models come with a diesel engine; but, some markets get CNG derivatives as well. The F-series is available a variety of cab styles, engines, 4WD or 2WD depending on the market it is sold. While Isuzu's main plant is in Japan, these trucks are locally assembled from CKD kits in numerous countries.
Most mid-size and big-size models of the truck are distinguishable by a front 'Forward' badge; but the common Isuzu badge is usually used on the rear. Confusingly, the smaller Isuzu Elf (N-Series) has been sold as the "GMC Forward" in the United States and other markets.
The Isuzu Forward is among the commercial grade trucks used by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force for rear line duties.
A variety of weight ranges, bodies, and types were on offer, including a tractor unit and dumpers, on wheelbases ranging from . While most of the first generation Forward range was replaced in August 1975, the lighter short cab versions continued in production as the "Forward S" until replaced by Forward Juston in 1986.
Semi-tractor
4WD
The FTR, FVR, FSR and FRR are all equipped with naturally aspirated and turbocharged Isuzu 6BG1 and 6HE1 engines mated to the six-speed manual or NAVi6 six-speed automatic gearbox with an optional ABS. A 1992–1994 Isuzu Forward truck appears in a scene of Studio Ghibli's 1994 animated movie Pom Poko.
For the Chilean and Peruvian markets, the trucks were shipped from Japan as CKD kits to Huechuraba, Chile, where up to two a day could be assembled by a team of 13 workers.
Beginning in 1998, this generation of the Forward was sold in the United States and Canada with Chevrolet and GMC badging. They were called the T-series, followed by a four-digit number indicating the weight rating. Models included the T6500, T7500, and the T8500. The range received an updated 6H engine in 2008 but sales of this model ended in 2009.
Models
In North America, it was introduced in 2017 for the 2018 model year.
In Thailand, the 2022 model year saw the LED projector headlight and interior updates for some models, and they also introduced the FRR 210 Max Torque as well.
It shares the same cab as the Isuzu Elf but it has a different side fenders. It adopted the company's first common architecture strategy called I-MACS or Isuzu Modular Architecture and Component Standard that standardizes the key modules such as the engine, transmission, fuel tank, axles and safety features to allow flexibility and diverse needs worldwide.
Interior
The new Forward features new 7 inch display similar to the Elf, a smaller steering wheel and upgraded seats with full recline.
Safety
Safety features were enhanced across four main packages:
BASIC: mandatory safety equipment (standard on smaller models)
STANDARD: adds adaptive headlights, speed sign recognition, and driver monitoring
ADVANCE: adds adaptive cruise control, emergency stop system (EDSS), and electronic parking brake
PREMIUM: offers lane-keep assist, enhanced EDSS, and blind spot monitoring
Engine
Engine options are the 4HK1 engine now uses DPD with Urea SCR emission treatment, the inline six options for the heavier version are the all new Cummins co-developed D6BA-TCN and D6BA-TCC producing 260 and 300 PS respectively, mated to either a 9 speed manual or isuzu's Smoother-Fx Automated manual transmission.
In 2022 the class-7 FVR was launched in addition to the FTR. Both the FTR and FVR now use the Cummins B6.7 engine featuring 260hp and 660 lb-ft of torque. The FTR is paired with an Allison 2550 RDS transmission with parking pawl, while the FVR features an Allison 2500 RDS without parking pawl. The same year Chevrolet launched its class-7 variant as the LCF 7500 XD.
The Isuzu FTR won "Medium Duty Truck of the Year" for 2018.
Fifth generation (2007)
The fifth generation Forward was launched in May 2007; all models are equipped with Isuzu 4H/6H engines. A new 6x6 variant was exhibited at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show in 2013.
Sixth generation (2023)
The sixth generation Forward was launched in March 2023 and went sale in August 2023. The 6th generation Forward also has powertrain updates to meet the upcoming fuel efficiency regulations.
Forward Juston
The lighter duty version of the Forward was offered in 1986 as the replacement for the Forward S. It uses the cab from the Isuzu Elf and it has shorter length with less than 8 tons of Vehicle weight.
Current lineup
Japan/Worldwide
Australia
Isuzu is the market leader in Australia and makes models unique to that market. It includes of popular models with options like 4X4 and Power take-off. Australia also receives slightly larger versions codenamed FX-series.
North America
The fifth generation class-6 FTR launched in the United States and Canada in 2017. It featured the Isuzu 5.2L 4HK1-TC engine developing 215hp and 520 lb-ft of torque paired to an Allison 2000 series 6-speed automatic transmission. Wheelbases range from 152 to 248 inches accommodating truck body lengths from 14 to 30. A Chevrolet-badged variant was launched as the LCF 6500 XD.
See also
External links
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