Aimed squarely at business owners who may have outgrown a one tonne utility or van, the release of the entry level ready-to-work Isuzu NLR 200 Traypack, available in both a short and medium wheelbase, has a payload capacity of approximately two tonnes.

The short wheel base model is fitted with a high quality 3630 mm x 1995 mm aluminium tray with one dropside per side, while the medium wheelbase Traypack is approximately 870 mm longer for total dimensions of 4500 mm x 1995 mm and two dropsides per side.

As with Isuzu’s other ready-to-work models, the Traypack is fully equipped and can be virtually driven straight from the dealership to the worksite eliminating lengthy delays at the bodybuilders.

“The Traypack can be driven on a car licence and is available at an extremely competitive price; combine this with a large load space and the ability to be put to work right from the showroom floor, and I think the overall package will certainly appeal to many buyers,” said Jeff Birdseye Isuzu Marketing Manager.

“Of course the Traypack also benefits from the enhanced features of Isuzu’s recently released, all-new 2008 models including ABS brakes, Driver’s airbag, Hill Start Aid (HSA), Anti Skid Regulator (ASR) and a powerful yet fuel efficient engine.”

Powering the Traypack is the 4-cylinder, 3.0 litre, EuroIV-compliant SiTEC Series II 150 engine, producing 110 kW of power and strong torque of 375 Nm, ideal for hauling large loads and towing heavy trailers, particularly when coupled with Isuzu’s 5-speed synchromesh manual transmission.

Two recalls have been issued by Isuzu, one covers the N Series and the second is, more specifically aimed at the NLR model.

One recall is for Isuzu N Series trucks fitted with 4HK1 engines produced from June 2005 through to June 2007. The fault relates to a possible diesel fuel seep or leak from the linkage pipe at the upper or lower fuel port on the diesel fuel supply pump.

The Isuzu NLR recall relates to the steering yoke pinch bolt. This bolt may have been damaged during the installation processes. This condition could cause the pinch bolts final torque to vary from the desired specification. This could cause damage to the universal joint contact area with the steering input shaft on the steering rack assembly.

Should this condition occur steering control could be affected and in the worst case steering control could be lost.

The vehicles covered are 2008 models.

Isuzu say they will contact owners of all affected vehicles by telephone and letter.

Isuzu is offering its new generation Tradepack – ready-to-work truck. Available on NPR 200 (4,500 kg GVM for car licence operation) or NPR 275 (5,500 kg GVM for maximum payload and diesel fuel credit) models in either standard or ‘Premium’ level.

This new generation Tradepack features a Triple M 4500 mm aluminium tray body, with two-piece 303 mm drop sides, complete with a three-piece ladder rack incorporating a headboard and powder coated window protector, while deep front steps provide easy access to the payload area.

Up front, a driver and passenger airbag-compatible Isuzu polished aluminium bull bar provides protection, while complementing cab appearance.

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For those wishing to utilise the Tradepack’s full potential, a genuine Isuzu 3500 kg tow bar incorporating a 24 volt, 7 pin flat plug trailer wiring harness and chrome tow ball makes for hassle-free towing. This trailer harness also provides for easy connection of an electric trailer brake system to suit larger trailers.

Finishing off the package are Isuzu Tradepack decals and mudflaps.

For buyers wanting a little more, the ‘Premium’ model offers the usual Premium level features such as 6 speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), chrome grille, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, a multi-information display and fog lamps in the bull bar. Premium models have a factory painted silver cab, and a lockable steel toolbox fitted under the left hand side of the tray, in addition to the aforementioned Tradepack features.

Powering the NPR 200 / 275 models is Isuzu’s new 5.2 litre, SiTEC Series II 155 four-cylinder turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled engine, producing power of 114 kW @ 2,600 rpm and 419 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,600 rpm. This is an improvement of 4 kW (3.6 per cent) in power and 15 Nm (3.7 per cent) in torque over the previous model.

The Tradepack comes standard with many safety features including standard driver and passenger SRS airbags, pre-tensioner and load limiting seatbelts, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution, Anti-Skid Regulator (ASR) or traction control, and Hill Start Aid (HSA) on manual models.

Also provided are electric windows, air conditioning, keyless entry, and a newly designed multi infotainment system as standard. This system features AM/FM radio, MP3/WMA compatible CD Player and optional extras (available at additional cost), including: iPOD drawer, Bluetooth phone connection, NAVTEQ embedded Satellite Navigation and up to two reversing cameras.

Those opting for the Premium model benefit from Isuzu’s second generation automated manual transmission (AMT), which provides the ease of use of an automatic with the versatility and efficiency of a manual transmission.

The second generation AMT offers smoother and more responsive gear changes through the adoption of a new linear solenoid, and more efficient communication between the transmission and engine electronic control units.

According to Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) Director of Sales and Marketing, Phil Taylor, new NPR Tradepack models combine high specification levels with convenience and value for money.

“The Tradepack models offer all the great benefits of Isuzu’s recently-released all-new 2008 cab chassis, with the convenience of being virtually ready to drive straight from the showroom floor to the worksite,” Taylor said.

“This eliminates a lengthy stay at the bodybuilders for fitment of the body and accessories, while also priced to provide significant cost savings versus purchasing the accessories individually.

“Being a car licence model, the NPR 200 Tradepack should have a broad appeal to a wide variety of businesses and vocations, and is ideal for those perhaps looking to upgrade from a utility or ‘one tonner’ to a real truck.

“And for the first time ever, the Tradepack is being made available on the higher GVM/GCM NPR 275 for those needing some extra carrying capacity. For buyers wanting an even smarter looking truck with additional features and convenience, there is now also a Premium option, effectively providing a choice of four Tradepack models,” Taylor said.