Targeted primarily for small and medium-sized businesses whose owners tend to be hands-on with their logistics and delivery (it can be driven with a Restriction Code 2 on the Driver’s License), the Isuzu N Series Smoother features an automated manual transmission or AMT. This gives the N Series Smoother the best of both worlds—two-pedal versatility and three-pedal durability.

“Being the number 1 truck brand in the country, Isuzu’s success comes from working closely with our customers, assessing their every need, and coming up with the best business solutions in every step of the way,” said IPC President Hajime Koso. “In the Philippines, trucks are maximized and utilized almost at 24/7 operations. And with the increasing demand for delivery, especially in logistics, truckers deal not just with the increase in their operation expenses, particularly fuel and maintenance, but also the need for more professional drivers which has become quite a problem. So, we thought, why not make our next truck address all these challenges and more,” Koso added.

The AMT system applies an electronically-controlled clutch to the 6-speed manual gearbox. The in-house built MYY6S behaves like any other automotive gearbox in its default automatic mode. It changes gears optimally ensuring component longevity and best possible fuel economy.

It also has a Manual Mode where drivers can manually go through the gears with the simple flick of the gear lever—no clutching in necessary. The AMT also improves acceleration and has a low-speed creep speed—making it comfortable for drivers stuck in stop-and-go traffic.

The AMT system also integrates an Eco Mode function. With just the push of a button, it changes the shift pattern by ensuring low engine speeds as much as possible. The computer will then upshift early on partial acceleration.

For now, the Isuzu N Series Smoother will come in just one rear body length and one engine configuration. Based on the NLR85, the N Series Smoother will come with the 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TCC engine with 124 horsepower at 2,600 rpm and 354 Nm of torque at 1,500 rpm. It has a 4,490-kilogram Gross Vehicle Weight and can be outfitted with up to 10 different body options including Passenger Van, Aluminum Van, and even Fire Truck and Fuel Tanker.

To make any logistics job—near or far—comfortable for the everyone, the N Series Smoother features a spacious cabin, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, high-visibility meters, an AM/FM tuner radio with USB and two speakers, reclinable vinyl seats, and a cab tilt warning system.

The N Series Smoother is priced at P 1,600,000 (cab & chassis only), or a P 95,000 price premium over the NLR85. It comes with a 3-year, unlimited kilometer warranty.