The N Series maintained its top position in Japan as the nation's most registered cab-over truck of between two- and three-ton payloads in 2006. Known as the Elf in Japan, the series has held the top position for six straight years and all but one year since 1970.
A total of 50,627 N Series trucks were registered during the year, according to figures compiled by Isuzu and the Japan Automobile Dealers Association. Market share rose 0.5 percentage points to 39.3 percent. Total registrations of all vehicles in the class increased 13,187 to 128,900.
The N Series debuted in the Japanese market back in 1959. Over the years, the model has become synonymous with light-duty trucks, thanks to continuous innovation and superior quality. Isuzu's unmatched diesel technology has enabled the series to repeatedly set new standards for environmental impact and fuel economy. Moreover, the N Series' functional, stylish design and safety engineering have largely defined the history of light-duty trucks in Japan.
The sixth generation of the series, introduced recently in the Japanese market, boasts a long list of enhancements, such as refined styling; sturdy, lightweight cabin; compact, clean yet powerful new 4JJ1-TCS 3-liter intercooled turbo diesel engine; new Smoother Ex transmission; and much more.
The all-new model should help the N Series add many more years to its streak as the most registered vehicle of its kind in Japan. Cumulative production, which already exceeds five million units, is expected to grow at an accelerated pace as the series builds on its strong reputation in more than 100 countries worldwide.