Introduction: A Legacy of Durability and Innovation
Mitsubishi Fuso, a cornerstone of Japan’s commercial vehicle industry, has built its reputation on reliability, efficiency, and versatility.
From the rugged models of the 1990s and early 2000s to today’s tech-enhanced and eco-friendly trucks, Fuso continues to evolve with the demands of global logistics.
But how do older Fuso trucks compare to the newer models? Let’s examine the key differences across performance, safety, comfort, fuel economy, and environmental compliance.
🔧 1. Engine Technology and Emissions
🛠️ Older Fuso Trucks (1990s–2000s)
-
Common engines: 4D33, 4M40, 6D14, 6M70
-
Mechanical fuel injection systems
-
Emission standard: Pre-Euro or Euro I–II (unregulated in some markets)
-
Simple maintenance and high tolerance to fuel quality
-
Fuel economy: ~6–8 km/L depending on use
⚙️ Newer Fuso Trucks (2010s–2020s)
-
Engines: 4P10, 4M50, 6M60, BlueTec® Clean Diesel
-
Advanced common-rail direct injection
-
Emission standard: Euro V–VI / Japan 2016+ compliant
-
Equipped with DPF, EGR, and SCR technologies
-
Fuel economy: Up to 10–13 km/L
-
Available fully electric option: eCanter
✅ Summary: Newer trucks are cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient—but older models are easier to maintain in remote or developing regions.
🚛 2. Transmission and Driving Experience
Older Models
-
5-speed or 6-speed manual transmissions
-
Heavy clutch feel and no electronic assistance
-
Basic gear ratio suited for moderate-speed work
-
No cruise control
Newer Models
-
DUONIC automated manual transmission (AMT) in Canter
-
Smoother gear changes, easier for new drivers
-
Optional Eco Mode and hill-start assist
-
Cruise control and optional regenerative braking (in EVs)
✅ Summary: Modern transmissions reduce fatigue and improve performance in urban driving.
🛡️ 3. Safety Features
Older Models
-
Standard seatbelts
-
Optional ABS on higher trims
-
No airbags or active driver aids
Newer Models
-
ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
-
Lane Departure Warning, Pre-Collision Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring
-
360° cameras and rear parking sensors
-
Reinforced cabins that meet modern crash standards
✅ Summary: Safety has improved dramatically—newer models are much better suited for fleet liability reduction and driver protection.
🪑 4. Cabin Comfort and Ergonomics
Then
-
Vinyl seats, basic ventilation
-
Analog gauges only
-
Minimal soundproofing
-
Narrow cabin with fewer storage options
Now
-
Air suspension driver seats
-
Digital instrument clusters and infotainment systems
-
USB ports, Bluetooth, modern HVAC
-
Enhanced insulation and wider glass area for visibility
✅ Summary: Driver comfort in newer models supports longer shifts and reduced fatigue—an important upgrade for fleet owners.
🌐 5. Connectivity and Fleet Management
Older Models
-
Manual recordkeeping
-
No GPS or diagnostics
-
Limited oversight of driver behavior
Newer Models
-
Available Fuso Truckonnect telematics system
-
Real-time tracking, maintenance alerts, driver scoring
-
Remote diagnostics and fuel consumption analysis
-
Cloud-based fleet integration (for larger operations)
✅ Summary: Connectivity turns Fuso trucks into smart business tools, not just vehicles.
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison Chart
Feature | Older Fuso Trucks | Newer Fuso Trucks |
---|---|---|
Engine | Mechanical diesel | Clean diesel / Electric |
Emissions | Euro I–II / none | Euro VI / JP2016+ |
Transmission | Manual | AMT / Automatic |
Safety | Basic | Full active safety suite |
Cabin | Functional | Ergonomic & tech-equipped |
Connectivity | None | Telematics-capable |
Fuel Economy | 6–8 km/L | 10–13 km/L |
Maintenance | Simple, low-cost | Requires modern service tools |
👤 Customer Testimonial
“We’ve operated older Fuso Canters for over a decade—rugged and simple. But the new models with DUONIC and safety tech have transformed our delivery operations. Thanks to EVERY Co Ltd and EVERYCAR.jp, we received exactly the right trucks for our market.”
✅ Conclusion: Old Strength, New Intelligence
Whether you’re running trucks in a rural setting where simplicity and durability matter most, or managing an urban fleet where fuel savings, emissions, and data tracking are essential—Mitsubishi Fuso offers value in both generations.
Both old and new models carry the same DNA of reliability—just adapted for different times and environments.
🚚 Looking for used Mitsubishi Fuso trucks?
EVERY Co Ltd offers a wide selection of well-maintained older models and modern, export-ready Fuso trucks. Visit EVERYCAR.jp to explore global inventory.
If you are looking for Japanese Used truck, please check our list.
The list of Used Japanese used truck for sale(*Click to open).
We do our best work for all customer's partnership.
It's for SDGs goal number 17 "PARTNERSHIP FOR THE GOALS".
Let's work together!