TEST DRIVE
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GENUINE CONTENDER
The Hino 700 Series is a serious contender for the 400-500hp heavy duty market and completes the refresh of the entire Hino range.
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perational restrictions brought about by COVID have meant that it is almost six months since the mid-2021 release of the all-new Hino 700 before we have the opportunity to drive it. And it has been worth the wait. Key new models in Hino’s heavy-duty range include 4x2 and 6x2 rigid trucks suitable for distribution applications and new 6x4 and 8x4 models, which will cater for customers at the heavier end of the distribution and vocational application spectrum. We have come to expect a Toyota standard of finish on Hino trucks, but the new 700 Series takes it to the next level. Even on this pre-production example the standard is worthy of Toyota’s premium brand Lexus. The new 700 Series breaks fresh ground for Hino in terms of safety and application suitability as well as the very important driver experience. With much in common with the latest Hino 500 models the functional and contemporary interior of the cab is trimmed with a balance of carbon fibre, silver and ‘earthy’ tones. The new wraparound dash creates a cockpitlike environment for the driver who performs their job from the comfort of the latest generation ISRI 6860 NTS2 driver’s seat which has air lumbar supports and a myriad of adjustments. The redesign of the cab allows for additional adjustability in rearward
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seat travel which combined with the tilt and telescopic steering wheel, can provide the ideal driving position for drivers of various shapes and sizes. The ride is further smoothed due to the
Hino 700 SS 2848 6x4 towing a three-axle dog trailer.
cab being remotely mounted on fourpoint air suspension, resulting in less vibration, road noise and driver fatigue. Cab temperature is now controlled by automatic climate control, while the bunk is ADR42 sleeper compliant, and has interior light controls which can also be operated from the rest area. The dash layout features all-new instrumentation with large, high
