Kenworth dialled up some new number designation numbers for its display at the 2025 Brisbane Truck Show which opened yesterday.

Regarded as the largest heavy commercial vehicle expo in the Southern Hemisphere – the biennial show is expected to attract more than 40,000 attendees during its run through till Sunday at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The Kenworth press briefing on Thursday morning revealed five model updates – the 15-litre Cummins-powered T620 and T620 SAR duo along with 13-litre PACCAR-engined T420 and T420 SAR, and a new generation T320.

The T620 is the successor to the T610 introduced in 2016. The key updates are Euro 6 versions of the Cummins X15 with up to 625hp and 2050 lb-ft of torque. Bold new air vents on the bonnet of the T620 are the most obvious visual exterior update along with a red ‘T’ on the model badging to denote the Euro 6 status.

The major interior upgrade across the new models is the PACCAR 15-inch digital driver display, and the smart steering wheel first introduced for the cab-over K220 models.

The first New Zealand-spec bonneted `20’ models are scheduled for September build slots with arrival in New Zealand during Q4 of this year.

The PACCAR stand also showcased the DAF XG+ powered by the new generation Cummins X15D developing 660hp with 2360 lb-ft of torque. The truck has been developed for Australian prime mover roles and there are no plans at present to launch the 15-litre DAF models in New Zealand.

Isuzu was busy showing off its new generation N-Series and F-Series models which boast a range of new features, including a 9-speed dual clutch AMT for N Series models, a new 6.7-litre six-cylinder engine for the new generation F-Series, and a significant upgrade of safety and drivers assist features across both ranges.

The first new generation F Series models are expected to arrive in New Zealand with a staggered introduction starting in August.

Daimler Group had new models to show across its European, Japanese and North American brands. This included the Australasian debut of the Mercedes-Benz Actros L Pro Cabin and an early preview of the fifth generation Freightliner Cascadia in a camouflage colour scheme. No launch date is confirmed for Australasia for the next-gen Cascadia.

Another truck on show and currently undergoing validation tests was a Fuso Shogun with the power output lifted from 510 to 530hp. It will deliver higher GCM capability, and a further upgrade of safety and driver assist technology when it goes on sale next year.

Volvo’s show centrepiece was the flagship FH 16 powered by the new 17-litre 780hp engine in XXL cab configuration and on the Mack side of the Volvo Group display was a preview of the restyled Super-Liner in road train specification, also equipped with the MP11 780hp 17-litre engine.

Iveco highlighted its 50th anniversary celebrations and its significant debut was the new Eurocargo medium duty truck, on show in 14t ML 140 E28 specification. The 6.7-litre 280hp engine can be matched to a new 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and Iveco says it achieves a 4% fuel saving over the previous model. The New Zealand introduction is scheduled for Q3 of this year.

A full report from the Brisbane Truck Show will appear in the July issue of New Zealand Truck & Driver.