Hino’s updated Euro 6 300 Series diesel range brings increased torque, higher towing capability and revised automatic transmission operation, expanding its appeal for fleets carrying tools, equipment and trailers.
The update retains the familiar cab and four-litre diesel engine format while introducing changes aimed at improving how the truck performs across urban deliveries, trade applications and council operations.
Daniel Petrovski, Department Manager of Product Strategy for Hino Australia, described the revised range as an evolution of the existing truck.
“This is not an all-new model. This is a Euro six update,” he said during the product presentation.
However, the work extends beyond adding emissions equipment. Hino has revised engine components, introduced the next generation of its six-speed automatic transmission and repackaged chassis equipment to accommodate the Euro 6 exhaust after-treatment system.
More torque and greater towing flexibility
The updated N04C four-litre diesel delivers 440Nm of torque, up from 420Nm, with maximum torque beginning at a lower engine speed.
For fleet operators, the change is intended to improve response when moving away with a load and maintaining progress on hills. The engine works with a six-speed torque converter automatic, which now features a sequential shifter for manual gear selection.
The combination also enables higher Gross Combination Mass (GCM) ratings on selected diesel models.
Car-licence-compatible 616 Standard and Wide Cab models rated at 4,499kg Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) offer a 3,500kg towing capacity and a 7,999kg GCM.
The 6,500kg GVM 716 now has a 10,000kg GCM, while the 8,000kg GVM 816 models move to an 11,500kg GCM.
“This will particularly suit tradespeople and/or municipal or local government operators who prefer the ease of a true automatic transmission combined with a need for strong towing capabilities,” Petrovski said.
For councils and contractors, the increased ratings create more flexibility when specifying a truck to carry equipment while towing a trailer. The appropriate combination will depend on the selected vehicle, body, payload and trailer requirements.
Familiar workplace, updated lighting
The cab retains its established layout, including adjustable seating, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment and accessible controls.
A 10.1-inch multimedia unit provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, while a 4.2-inch multi-information display sits alongside the main instruments.
Petrovski said driver comfort remained important because operators can spend much of their working day in the vehicle.
“Drivers can be in the cab for long periods of time – the cab is their office so it’s essential that it’s comfortable to reduce driver fatigue,” he said.
LED headlamps and fog lamps feature in the updated range. Hino’s SmartSafe package continues, including a Pre-Collision System with Autonomous Emergency Braking, pedestrian detection and Lane Departure Warning.
Vehicle Stability Control, a reverse camera, dual SRS airbags and four-wheel disc brakes are also included.
Euro 6 changes extend to the chassis
Accommodating the AdBlue tank and revised exhaust equipment has required changes to chassis packaging, with fuel tank capacities and component locations varying between models.
That makes the body and equipment specification an important part of the purchasing discussion, particularly for short-wheelbase trucks where available chassis space is limited.
Fleets replacing an existing 300 Series should review the relevant chassis layout with their dealer and bodybuilder when planning toolboxes, auxiliary equipment and other installations.
More ready-bodied options planned
Hino is also developing additional Built to Go products following customer and dealer feedback.
Steel tray and van-body prototypes are being finalised with Australian bodybuilder Alltruck Bodies. The company plans to expand its ready-bodied offering across the 300, 500 and 700 Series during 2027.
The updated Euro 6 300 Series diesel range is available through Hino dealerships Australia-wide, supported by a five-year or 250,000km standard warranty, whichever comes first, five years of roadside assistance and capped-price servicing.
For fleet buyers, the main opportunity is to revisit the truck’s role in the operation: the increased combination ratings and revised powertrain may provide a better fit for jobs involving both a working payload and a trailer.
