Iveco Daily FC fp ad.indd - Export & Freight

lightweightsAs with a standard automatictransmission, or a modernautomatic transmission withtorque converter, it is possibleto change gears manually atany time with the Duonic dualclutchtransmission by brieflypressing a joystick selector leveron the instrument panel.To put it in more simplistic terms:this direct-shift transmission,well known from its use inpassenger cars, lowers fuelconsumption, causes less wearto auxiliary equipment, reducesthe burden on the driver,particularly on short trips, andcombines the conveniencebenefits of an automatictransmission with the economyof a manual transmission.Fitted as standard in the Duonictransmission is Eco Mode, whichenables early shifting to furtherreduce fuel consumption; it is afeature that we were particularlyimpressed by. Indeed, most ofour journey was in ‘eco mode’and although not scientific inany way, we reckon we weregetting an impressive 20mpg.A comfortable working environmentA world first - Duonic dual-clutchtransmission, with Eco modeThe CabThe cab in the new Canter offersan excellent working environment,with notable features includingarmrests, a lockable glovecompartment, heated mirrors andthe option to have a powerfulair-conditioning system. Thehighly functional cab-over-engineconcept in the Canter also meansdriver and front seat passengerenjoy even better access fromleft to right through the cab.The new circular instrumentscan be easily read. The economyrange on the rev counter is clearlymarked. The new multifunctiondisplay between the instrumentsprovides information such astime and distance travelled,and includes a trip computer tocalculate fuel consumption, adisplay showing the status of theparticulate filter, a warning lampfor the fuel level and a displayshowing the transmission gearcurrently engaged. The controlbuttons are distributed within easyreach around the steering wheel.There’s no shortage of storageareas in the cab, either. Thecentral console contains two DINslots, a storage compartmentwith a hatch and a pull-outdrinks holder for two containers.An open receptacle and, aswe mentioned, a lockableglove compartment on thefront seat passenger side canbe used to store items.There is also a stowage facility fordocuments and a compartmentfor a mobile phone or smallitems, while roof stowage boxes,door storage bins and stowagefacilities behind and between theseats are available as options.The EngineOur journey to and from theCounty Down resort was pleasantand stress free throughout. Therewas plenty of pulling powerwhen we needed it from theEuro 5 EEV compliant engine,which on the 7.5 tonner isavailable in two power ratings- a 110 kW (150 hp) unit, apowerful, economic runner,high on uphill performanceand low on revs, while the 129kW (175 hp) high-performanceengine, ideal on building sitesand on the motorway.Excellent suspension contributedto a smooth ride and easyhandling, and when we got intorestricted situations, the tightturning circle made light work ofit. Visibility from the driver’s seatwas also excellent and at all timeswe felt safe and secure, with discbrakes all round and ABS withelectronic brake force distributionamong the safety features.An electronic stability programme(ESP) can be ordered as anoptional extra with the 7.5 tonnemodel; this features accelerationskid control (ASR), hydraulicbrake assist, hydraulic brakebooster in case of a leak in thevacuum brake booster, and atorque reduction activated bythe engine control module toprevent wheel spin or wheellocking when changing gearon slippery road surfaces.The new Canter, like itspredecessor, is highly versatile,too. There are six wheelbasesavailable, and a frame designthat caters for all kinds of bodysolutions. There’s also a choiceof cab whether you want tobenefit from a higher payloador carry up to seven people.VerdictIf you are in the market for a lightcommercial that offers extendedservice intervals, an increasedpayload –over five tonnes in the7.5 tonne model, which is thehighest in its segment - and muchlower maintenance costs, thendo yourself a favour and take alook at this new FUSO Canter.SPECIFICATIONModel:FUSO Canter 7.5 tonneEngine:Mitsubishi FUSO 4P10-T6Transmission:Duonic dual-clutchBrakes: discs all roundCab: Comfort Cab31Fuso Canter Test Spread.indd 31 21/03/2012 10:36