Review: 2016 Hino 300 Series 617 Cab Chassis

Hino 300 Series 617: The introduction

When investing in a particular business, regardless of its nature, it is not advisable to go straight to a dealer or store and get the first thing you see. We need to have some sort of checklist to determine the characteristics or features that we want in what we’re purchasing.

The same goes for the logistics. If you’re going to pursue a career as an entrepreneur in this field, then you should think about the kind of vehicles that will be the face of your brand. In this industry, you would need trucks that are powerful, versatile, efficient, yet still within the scope of your funds. Well, you don’t have to bust your bank account to actually start in the trucking business since there are a lot of light vehicles that could very well deliver the kind of performance you want at the most affordable price. We are going to feature one such truck that comes from Hino’s 300 series: the 2016 617 cab chassis.

Hino 300 Series 617: Key features

Undeniable engine power

The 617 truck utilizes the N04C-UT engine that can deliver a maximum of 121kW (165hp) of power at 2,500rpm and a torque of 464Nm at 1,400rpm with a 6-speed transmission. This 4L engine is not only equipped with an electronically controlled common rail fuel injection system, but it also features the Variable Nozzle Turbo (VNT) technology that allows it to meet both the Euro 5 and EEV emission standards. Add to that the three fuel filters, the cooled exhaust gas re-circulation system, and the Diesel Particulate Active Reduction System (DPR) system, and you get to have an automatic self-cleaning system with uncompromised power and fuel efficiency.

Advanced braking system

Together with many other manufacturing companies, Hino is at the forefront of incorporating innovation to the safety and security of our drivers (and of course, our payloads). The 617 truck features hydraulic system service brakes with ventilated disc brakes at the front and rear, and an electric vacuum actuator exhaust brake with valve in exhaust pipe. You can drive with utmost confidence with this vehicle that is standardized with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) which prevents wheels from locking when braking, the Traction Control (TRC), the Easy Start System (ES) which automatically prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting off on steep inclines, and the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) which improves stability when loss of traction is detected.

A winning cab

This forward control, all steel welded cab integrates the torsion-bar tilt mechanism and telescopic tilt column with integral power steering. Both the driver and the assistant’s seats are equipped with the 3-point type seat belt with ELR and pre-tensioner while the center passenger has the 2-point type. Driving this vehicle will be quite comfortable with the high back seat with lumbar support and suspension base that would absorb all the shocks making the ride a smooth one.

Among the other features are the DAB+AM/FM radio with CD and DVD player and Bluetooth, heater and defroster, air conditioner, immobiliser, SRS airbag, overhead consoles, and cruise control.

Standard instruments

Hino completes this truck with the warning instruments that indicate the exhaust brake, engine oil pressure, battery charge, fuel level, fuel filter water accumulating level, brake fluid level, cab-tilt, Easy Start, and Cruise Control. It also has a multi information display so you could easily monitor the fuel gauge, the coolant temperature and DPR accumulation gauges, and the current and average fuel consumption.

Hino 300 Series 617: Price

New: $42,273 AUD ($46,500 GST Inclusive)

Hino 300 Series 617: Videos

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Hino 300 Series 617: The verdict

The 2016 Hino 300 Series 617 truck has a lot going for it considering that it is a light vehicle. It also has some additional options if you want to upgrade it but they do cost more so check with your dealer about these accessories. If you have checked other car licence vehicles, you may consider this one a tad more expensive than others but do keep in mind that this is being sold in a brand new condition. But aside from that, I could affirm that the 617 truck is definitely built to deliver the power and the efficiency you would need to advance in this industry.