Freightliner

      Class 6 and 7 Business Class M2 models come with aluminum cabs in regular, extended and crew-cab lengths, and 100- and 106-inch BBCs. They can be equipped for many on-road jobs. M2V (for vocational) models have strengthened frames and can be ordered with front frame extensions, stationary grilles, hood access hatches and other special equipment serves construction and other severe-service markets. Standard in most models are Mercedes-Benz engines and manual transmissions; Mercedes' AGS automated mechanical transmission is optional in some models, as are Eaton Fuller AMTs. Cat diesels, Allison automatics and Fuller manual transmissions are also available, along with a variety of axles and other chassis components. Cargo low-cab-forward model (shared with Sterling) goes after specialty applications with dual steering and other options; it comes only with Cummins ISB and Allison automatics.

General Motors

      Chrome-plated grilles are among new offerings for '06 on Chevrolet Kodiak and GMC TopKick, otherwise known as C6500 and C7500 Class 6 and 7 conventionals (and the C8500 Class 8). Longer frames allow mounting of bodies as long as 30 feet. There's more emphasis on Allison automatics (part of GM's Powertrain division), including the 2200 Series, a close-ratio transmission with integral Park pawl rated for up to 26,000 pounds GVW; the 3000 RDS close-ratio six-speed is the base transmission on C8500 models and is available on C6500 and C7500 models. Standard engine on Kodiaks and TopKicks is the Vortec 8100 V-8 (the only gasoline engine still available in Class 6 through 8 trucks); Duramax 7800 and Cat C7 diesels are optional. Low-cab-forward models using Isuzu cabs and the Isuzu-built 7800 diesel are sold as Chevy T-series and GMC W-series models.

Truck Model Roundup continued...