Hino Australia has announced updates to its Euro 6-compliant 300 Series diesel truck range, combining increased engine torque with higher towing capability and Gross Combination Mass (GCM) ratings.
The changes broaden the light-duty truck’s appeal for trades, deliveries and local government fleets, particularly operators wanting an automatic transmission while carrying equipment and towing a trailer.
The Hino N04C four-litre diesel engine now delivers 440Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Selected diesel models offer a GCM of up to 11,500kg.
“These are important steps to further increase the appeal of the 300 Series to our customers across all light-duty applications,” said Daniel Petrovski, Department Manager of Product Strategy for Hino Australia.
More flexibility for towing applications
The updated range provides a minimum towing capacity of 3,500kg, with increased GCM ratings across key models.
The 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 GCM of 7,999kg.
The 716, with a 6,500kg GVM, now has a 10,000kg GCM. The 8,000kg GVM 816 models receive the largest increase, moving to an 11,500kg GCM.
Petrovski said the combination of increased engine torque and the automatic transmission enabled the higher ratings.
“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,” he said.
For fleet buyers, the revised ratings provide more scope to match a truck and trailer combination to the task. Vehicle configuration, body weight, equipment and trailer requirements remain central to that specification discussion.
Automatic transmission adds sequential control
The six-speed automatic now features a sequential shifter, allowing drivers to manually select gears or leave the transmission in Drive for automatic operation.
The additional control gives operators more flexibility while retaining the ease of a two-pedal driving experience.
Hino has also equipped the 300 Series with LED headlamps and fog lamps, improving illumination for operators working in low-light conditions.
Inside, the cab features an adjustable driver’s seat, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment and easy-to-reach controls. Instrumentation includes a central speedometer and tachometer, alongside a 4.2-inch multi-information display.
A 10.1-inch multimedia unit provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
“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,” Petrovski said.
Established safety package continues
The updated range retains Hino’s standard SmartSafe package, including a Pre-Collision System with Autonomous Emergency Braking, pedestrian detection and Lane Departure Warning.
Other safety equipment includes Vehicle Stability Control, a reverse camera, dual SRS airbags and four-wheel disc brakes. The cab is certified to the UN ECE R29 cab strength standard.
Together, these features support fleets using light-duty trucks across urban delivery routes, worksites and regional operations.
More Built to Go options in development
Hino is also preparing to expand its Built to Go range of ready-bodied trucks, following feedback from customers and dealers.
The company is finalising 300 Series prototypes that include steel tray and van bodies developed with Australian bodybuilder Alltruck Bodies.
Petrovski said the broader Built to Go programme would expand in 2027 across the 300, 500 and 700 Series ranges, providing turnkey options for additional applications and industries.
For fleet operators, the expansion could simplify procurement where a standard body configuration meets their operational requirements.
Warranty and support
The 300 Series is supported by Hino Advantage, including a five-year or 250,000km standard warranty, whichever comes first, five years of roadside assistance and capped-price servicing using Hino Genuine Parts.
The updated Euro 6 Hino 300 Series is available through Hino dealerships Australia-wide.
