Hino's model 198

Hino Motors Canada says its re-designed 2011 medium-duty truck (MDT) lineup will hit the street in September. Styling changes bring a new hood and front grille, while driver safety and efficiency improves with the addition of a Bluetooth-enabled GPS stereo and a new easy-to-read driver information display.

The big news, however, is the launch of the all new class 5 Hino 198. It's built on a 19,500-lb GVWR truck chassis with the same styling seen on all the 2011 Hino MDT’s. Power comes from a 220-hp, 7.6-litre turbocharged Hino diesel using selective catalytic reduction emission control to meet 2010 standards. By all accounts, the new truck answers a request by Canadian customers for "extra power and performance" in the company's light-duty trucks.

Hino says SCR is expected to reduce fuel consumption by 3-5% on the 198 and other models.

Elsewhere in the 2011 MDT lineup, the 2011 model 338 will receive a boost in power to 260 hp while torque on the Hino 358 increases to 660 lb ft. The changes will improve throttle response and driveability on both models, the company says.  Front-axle capacity on the 358 increases to 14,000 lb.

A ‘clean chassis’ option will be available for the Hino 268, 338 and 358. Components previously mounted outboard on the frame rails are relocated behind the cab, making this configuration suitable for beverage bodies and car carrier configurations, among others.

The new trucks will be assembled at Hino’s plant in Woodstock, Ont.