Australia’s rugged terrain and vast distances have long made trucks an essential part of both work and lifestyle. From the dusty outback to bustling urban centers, Aussies rely on tough, reliable vehicles that can handle it all. In this article, we dive into the top truck brands in Australia—examining what sets them apart, why they dominate the market, and how consumer preferences have shaped the fierce competition between names like Toyota, Ford, Isuzu, and Mitsubish
Kenworth
Image Source: Big Rigs
Kenworth has established itself as Australia’s leading truck manufacturer since the 1960s. The company builds heavy-duty vehicles specifically designed for Australia’s tough conditions. The story began when two Australians, George Blomfield and Ed Cameron, brought the first Kenworth trucks to the country. They found these superior vehicles while looking for transport solutions after WWII.
Kenworth key models
The T909 leads Kenworth’s lineup as its flagship model. This truck combines classic styling with outstanding performance for heavy haulage. Its traditional full-length bonnet and drop front frame help it run smoothly in hot conditions. The T909 works well in many roles, from logging to livestock transport. The model topped the most searched heavy-duty trucks list on trucksales throughout 2024.
The K200 series and T610 ranked second and third in search popularity. Kenworth’s latest cabover model, the K220, gives drivers better visibility and comfort for city, regional, and long-distance operations. The T320, T420, T620, T659, and C509 complete the detailed range. Each truck serves specific needs in Australia’s transport world.
The special Legend Series, which includes the Legend 950, launched in 2015. Only 75 trucks were made at first, and buyers snapped them up within 48 hours. These models blend classic looks with advanced technology and great performance.
Kenworth performance
These trucks are built tough for Australian conditions. They use engines from the PACCAR MX-13 to the Cummins X15 Euro 6, delivering up to 625hp and 2,050lb-ft of torque. The T680’s smart aerodynamic design helps save up to 7% on fuel.
The trucks feature a 15-inch high-definition digital dashboard where drivers can customise their information display. An eight-inch audio visual navigation system works with up to six external cameras. Safety features include adaptive cruise control with braking, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation technology.
Kenworth brand popularity
Kenworth leads Australia’s heavy-duty truck market with 23.13% of all truck brand searches in Q2 2025. The company sold 302 heavy-duty trucks in March, beating all competitors. Isuzu sold 249 units and Volvo 238, making them the only other brands reaching triple-digit sales.
The brand ranks fourth in overall truck sales despite focusing only on heavy-duty vehicles. It holds 7.3% of the total market share. Customers love Kenworth because of its Australian manufacturing at the Bayswater facility in Victoria. Each truck meets specific Australian conditions and customer needs.
The Bayswater plant spans 50,000 square feet and continues the proud tradition of Australian manufacturing. The facility also exports right-hand drive trucks to New Zealand and Zambia.
Mack
Image Source: Mack Trucks
Mack Trucks has built a trusted reputation in Australia’s heavy vehicle manufacturing for more than 100 years. The company started its Australian journey in 1963 with a mission to build trucks that could handle Australia’s tough terrain.
Mack key models
The Anthem leads Mack’s lineup as its versatile flagship model. This truck handles open highway, local and interstate distribution, and heavy construction jobs with ease. The MP8 engine powers it with 535hp and 1,920lb-ft torque, blending raw power and efficiency.
The Titan dominates extreme heavy-duty tasks with its MP11 engine. This powerhouse generates up to 780hp and 2,800lb-ft torque, making it Australia’s most powerful conventional truck. The Titan excels at road train, triple and quad applications where loads are heavy and routes are long.
The Super-Liner tackles demanding line-haul and heavy haulage tasks, while the Trident proves its worth on construction sites. The Metro-Liner rounds out the range, serving construction and distribution sectors.
Mack performance
Each Mack truck features an integrated powertrain that works as one unit. This design maximises performance, saves fuel, and reduces maintenance costs. The MP8 engine (13L) delivers 435-535hp with torque up to 1,920lb-ft, which suits line haul and urban applications perfectly.
The MP11 engine (17L) packs extraordinary power at 600-780hp and generates torque from 2,212-2,800lb-ft. Both engines use Euro 6 SCR emission technology to run cleaner.
The mDRIVE automated manual transmission works in perfect harmony with these engines. Drivers can choose from 12, 13, or 14-speed configurations with multiple reverse gears. This system makes gear changes easier and offers flexibility at low speeds.
Mack brand popularity
Search interest dropped 26.2% from Q2 2025, falling from 7.74% to 5.71% of nationwide truck searches. Yet Mack remains strong in Australia’s truck market.
All the same, sales jumped 45% in 2023 compared to 2022. Mack’s Australian manufacturing heritage drives its lasting appeal. The brand proudly displays the Australian Made logo next to its iconic bulldog emblem.
The Wacol, Queensland facility employs 450 people in production and 50 dedicated engineers. About 85 local suppliers provide more than 3,500 different components to the factory, and many parts come from Australian manufacturers. This local commitment continues with AUD 41.28 million invested in production facilities in the last six years.
Volvo
Image Source: Volvo Trucks
Volvo’s 52-year-old Australian journey began in 1972, and the company has grown into a powerhouse in the country’s truck industry. Their Wacol, Queensland facility stands as Australia’s largest vehicle manufacturing plant. The facility has produced over 80,000 trucks while employing about 1,600 people nationwide.
Volvo key models
Volvo offers several models that serve different purposes. The FH Aero showcases Volvo’s state-of-the-art design with aerodynamic efficiency as its main goal. The truck’s extended front and refined design cut down air drag and boost energy efficiency, whatever the powertrain type.
The FH16 tackles jobs other trucks can’t handle. Its D17 engine delivers up to 780 horsepower and 3800 Nm of torque, making it perfect for heavy transport operations.
The lineup includes other essential models. The FH remains the original long-haul icon, while the FMX serves as Volvo’s toughest construction truck. The FM adapts well to various tasks, and the medium-duty FE and FL models handle urban deliveries. Volvo has also developed electric versions for most models that produce zero exhaust emissions and run quieter with less vibration.
Volvo performance
Volvo trucks lead the way in performance through technologies that optimise efficiency. The I-Save system, available in FH Aero and FH models, pairs the D13 engine’s turbo compound technology with a detailed fuel package to cut consumption on long routes.
Key performance features include:
- The I-Shift automated transmission times gears perfectly to save energy
- I-See predictive cruise control adjusts speed and gears based on upcoming road conditions
- A Camera Monitor System takes the place of regular mirrors to boost aerodynamics and visibility
These features have built Volvo’s reputation for fuel efficiency. Tests show their aerodynamic improvements can cut drag by up to a third during typical long-haul diesel operations.
Volvo brand popularity
Volvo holds 18.2% of Australia’s heavy-duty truck market, placing it second only to Kenworth. The company delivered more than 3,000 trucks in Australia during 2024, which shows its strong market presence.
The brand continues to grow worldwide, gaining market share in 25 countries during 2024. Volvo expanded its Australian retail network by buying Truck Centre Western Australia, which added eight locations to its existing six sites. This strategic collaboration strengthens Volvo’s presence in Western Australia’s mining sector, where transport needs keep growing due to limited rail and sea freight options.
Scania
Image Source: Scania
Scania’s Super powertrain technology makes this Swedish manufacturer stand out among truck brands in Australia. Their groundbreaking engineering gives Australian operators the fuel efficiency and exceptional performance they need.
Scania key models
The R-series is Scania’s versatile workhorse built to maximise profitability in a variety of applications. You can choose from multiple cab configurations with its reliable R756 rear axle that handles gross vehicle weights up to 53 tonnes. The new Super 13-litre engine lineup ranges from 420hp to 560hp and saves 8% more fuel than earlier models.
When you need extraordinary power, the 16-litre V8 engines pack between 530hp to 770hp with torque up to 3,700Nm just above 1,000rpm. Scania stands alone as the only brand offering V8-powered on-road trucks in Australia.
Other key models include:
- P-series – Versatile cab range ideal for urban and regional operations with excellent visibility
- XT range – Built specifically for tough environments with reinforced bumpers and high air intakes
- G-series – Perfect middle ground between the P and R-series for varied applications
Scania performance
Scania’s exceptional safety standards shine through with their side curtain roll-over airbags—a feature unique to the brand in Australia. The Twin-SCR emissions control system with dual AdBlue dosing reduces exhaust emissions effectively in all types of operations.
The Super 13-litre engines can come with an optional compression release brake system that provides high-performance auxiliary braking up to 350 kW. This means smoother and safer driving on challenging terrain. Their detailed Opticruise G25 and G33 gearboxes are the foundations of industry-leading transmission performance.
Scania brand popularity
Scania reached new heights in Australia by delivering 1,250 trucks in 2023. The brand now ranks as the 5th most popular trucking brand in Australia. Their impressive 3.8% rise in search rankings during Q2 2025 shows growing momentum.
Australian operators love Scania’s fuel efficiency improvements. Many say the promised 8% savings have been “met and exceeded” in real-life operations. After 50+ years in Australia, Scania keeps growing. They plan to open their 10th company-owned branch in Hope Valley, south of Perth in 2025.
Scania strengthens its position through innovative products and outstanding total operating economy. This makes them an attractive choice for Australian transport businesses looking to control costs while keeping premium quality.
Mercedes-Benz
Image Source: Mercedes-Benz Trucks
Mercedes-Benz brings German engineering excellence to the Australian heavy vehicle market with a complete range of innovative trucks. The brand, a part of the global Daimler Truck Group, has become a technological pioneer that excels in safety and fuel efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz key models
The Actros stands as the flagship model in Mercedes-Benz’s truck lineup. This long-distance hauler and heavy-duty distribution vehicle will soon feature the ProCabin variant. The striking aerodynamic design of ProCabin helps reduce fuel consumption by up to 3% compared to its predecessor. Engineers built this new cab from scratch to direct airflow with minimal drag.
The lineup includes several other notable models. The Arocs shines in construction with its strong design. The Atego serves light-duty distribution needs, while the Econic adapts to tasks from waste collection to airport services. The Unimog delivers exceptional off-road performance in challenging terrain, making it the top choice for emergency responders.
Mercedes-Benz performance
The third generation OM 471 heavy-duty engine powers Mercedes-Benz trucks. This advanced powerplant delivers remarkable fuel efficiency through optimised combustion, application-oriented turbochargers, and lower friction. These improvements result in fuel savings up to 4% over previous generations.
The brand’s steadfast dedication to safety shows in its assistance systems that go beyond European Union standards:
- Active Brake Assist 6 Plus detects pedestrians and cyclists up to 60 km/h
- Active Sideguard Assist 2 monitors both vehicle sides across all speeds
- Active Drive Assist 3 provides automatic proximity control and lane keeping
Mercedes-Benz brand popularity
Mercedes-Benz holds seventh place among truck brands in Australia. The company sold 1,574 units in 2023, which marks a 13.1% increase from the previous year. The brand plays a vital role in Daimler Truck Group’s success. The group leads the Australian market with 6,751 sales across its Mercedes-Benz, Fuso, and Freightliner brands.
The brand claimed eighth position in the heavy-duty segment with 993 units sold in 2023. This is a big deal as it means that sales grew 22% compared to 2022. Data from Q2 2025 shows Mercedes-Benz experienced a slight dip in search interest from 11.61% to 11.26%, yet managed to keep a strong fourth-place position in the premium commercial vehicle segment.
Mercedes-Benz has introduced its electric truck range to the Australian market. The eActros and eEconic now offer zero-emission transport solutions with up to 300km of range.
Freightliner
Image Source: Pressrelease | Daimler Truck
Freightliner made its way into Australia in 1989 with trucks built specifically for local conditions and has grown into one of the country’s most trusted heavy truck brands. The company’s place in the Daimler Truck Group gives it access to engineering expertise from the world’s biggest truck manufacturer.
Freightliner key models
The Cascadia leads Freightliner’s Australian lineup with two main variants. The Cascadia 116 comes with Detroit’s 13-litre DD13 engine that delivers 450-505 horsepower and 1,650-1,850 lb-ft of torque. This makes it a great fit for bulk tippers, container transport, and single trailers. The Cascadia 126 packs a bigger punch with its 16-litre DD16 engine, producing 500-600 horsepower and 1,850-2,050 lb-ft of torque. This power suits it perfectly for fuel haulage, B-Double configurations, livestock transport, and road trains up to 145 tonnes.
Operators can choose from several cabin configurations. The 116 model comes with Day Cab, 36″ XT, and 48″ XT options. The 126 model adds 60″ XT and 60″ RR configurations to the mix.
Freightliner performance
Detroit Powertrain sits at the heart of Freightliner’s performance capabilities. This system works by combining engine and transmission to optimise power delivery and fuel consumption.
The Cascadia comes loaded with advanced safety technology, including:
- Active Brake Assist with automatic braking to prevent collisions
- Side Guard Assist for monitoring blind spots
- Adaptive Cruise Control maintaining safe distances automatically
- Lane Departure Warning helping drivers stay in their lane
Freightliner put the Cascadia through its paces with over one million kilometres of tough testing. This included cold chamber trials and hot room simulations to ensure it could handle Australian conditions.
Freightliner brand popularity
Freightliner’s connection to Daimler Truck Australia Pacific, along with Mercedes-Benz and Fuso, gives it access to a strong support network. This includes 78 dealerships and over 60 service points across Australia and New Zealand.
The brand celebrated its 25th year in Australia and has kept improving its product range to meet local needs. Road train operators particularly favour Freightliner, with the Cascadia 126’s power and reliability making it their top choice for the toughest transport jobs.
Isuzu
Image Source: Fully Loaded
Isuzu has ruled the Australian truck market for more than 30 years. The Japanese manufacturer offers a complete range of vehicles across multiple weight categories. Their reputation stands strong with reliable, versatile, and practical designs throughout their extensive lineup.
Isuzu key models
The versatile Isuzu range includes four distinct series that serve transport needs of all types. The lightweight N-Series spans a GVM range of 4,500-8,800 kg, while the medium-duty F-Series covers 11,000-26,000 kg. The FX-Series (17,000-26,000 kg) and the resilient FY-Series (30,000-35,000 kg) handle heavier loads.
The 2025 model lineup brings remarkable upgrades. A sleek cab design improves aerodynamics and cooling efficiency. Isuzu’s popular Ready-to-Work range comes with pre-bodied variants. These include Traypack, Tradepack, Vanpack, Servicepack, and Tipper models that provide ready-made solutions for businesses needing immediate deployment.
Isuzu performance
The 2025 models showcase impressive tech advances in safety and drivability. The N-Series features a groundbreaking 9-speed dual clutch transmission that shifts smoothly. It also packs a complete safety suite with Full Speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Intersection Emergency Braking.
These trucks shine in both city and country settings through smart design choices. Their compact build and tight turning radius help them navigate busy city streets easily. The trucks’ tough construction handles unpaved roads and rough terrain well, with impressive payload capacity to match.
Isuzu brand popularity
Isuzu stands unmatched as Australia’s leading truck brand for 36 straight years. The company delivered 13,402 trucks in 2024, claiming a strong 26.1% market share.
The brand leads in every segment. Light-duty sales hit 6,805 units with 46.7% market share, while medium-duty reached 4,116 sales with 50.6% share. The competitive heavy-duty sector saw Isuzu take third place with 2,481 sales, representing 14.5% market share.
Australian truck sales broke records in 2024, exceeding 50,000 units for the first time. Isuzu leads this growth with innovative products and strong support.
Hino
Image Source: Hino Australia
Hino, a Toyota Group subsidiary, has grown into a major player among truck brands in Australia over the last several years. The company’s entire range comes with detailed safety features and innovative technology.
Hino key models
The Hino lineup consists of three distinct series that serve transport needs of all types. The 300 Series measures up in safety, performance, and efficiency for light-duty applications. It comes in over 60 variants including Standard, Wide, and Crew Cab configurations. The 500 Series medium-duty range delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and comes with a detailed active safety package in all on-road models. The 700 Series takes safety and comfort to new levels. It packs horsepower from 320-480HP and GCM capabilities from 36,500kg to 72,000kg.
Hino stands out by offering Australia’s only Hybrid Electric truck. This innovative vehicle cuts fuel consumption and carbon footprint by up to 22% without needing recharges or having range limitations.
Hino performance
Hino trucks showcase superior performance through innovative engineering. The 500 Series Standard Cab uses the A05 five-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that delivers better torque, more power and uses less fuel. The engine matches larger engines’ torque while running at lower RPMs, which makes it more efficient and durable.
Every model comes with Hino SmartSafe, a detailed safety package with advanced driver-assist technology. The key features include:
- Pre-Collision System with autonomous braking
- Pedestrian Detection to boost urban safety
- Lane Departure Warning System that provides audible and visual alerts
Hino brand popularity
Hino broke records with customer orders in 2021, delivering 6,278 new vehicles. The brand captured 18.0% of the competitive Australian market. It dominates the light-duty segment with 23.3% market share (3,346 sales) and shows strong numbers in the medium-duty category at 31.4%.
Hino remains the only Japanese manufacturer with positive sales results in all segments recently. The brand’s market position gets stronger through Hino Advantage, a total support customer care programme that optimises uptime with integrated support solutions.
Fuso
Image Source: www.mitsubishi-fuso.com
Fuso has established itself as one of Australia’s most versatile truck brands since starting operations in 1971. The company, part of the Daimler Truck Group, offers a detailed range of light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles.
Fuso key models
The Canter, Fuso’s flagship light-duty truck, shows exceptional versatility with multiple configurations including 4×2, 4×4, and crew cab variants. The Fighter serves medium-duty applications with resilient performance and GVM ranging from 11,000kg to 24,000kg.
The heavy-duty Shogun range delivers powerful performance with variants from 360hp/1400Nm to an impressive 510hp/2500Nm. The Rosa rounds out the lineup as a popular light-duty bus that comes in 22 and 25-seater configurations.
The company launched Australia’s first all-electric truck, the eCanter, showing its dedication to green transport solutions.
Fuso performance
Safety technology features prominently in Fuso vehicles across all segments. The company made history by becoming the first manufacturer to equip Advanced Emergency Braking System in light, medium and heavy-duty trucks.
The vehicles come standard with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and electronic stability programmes. Shogun models benefit from longer service intervals of 50,000km.
Fuso brand popularity
The company achieved a record-breaking 4,770 truck sales in 2021. Fuso holds its position as Australia’s third most popular truck brand with 1,371 year-to-date deliveries and 7.7% market share.
The brand’s search interest jumped from 6.9% to 8.61% in Q2 2025, marking a significant 24.8% increase.
Iveco
Image Source: www.iveco.com
Iveco, an Italian truck manufacturer, has managed to keep a strong manufacturing presence in Australia since 1992. The company bought International Trucks Australia and set up production facilities in Dandenong, Melbourne. This move helped Iveco secure its position among Australia’s leading truck brands.
Iveco key models
The S-Way range stands as Iveco’s flagship offering. These versatile trucks come in rigid (6×2, 6×4, 8×4) and prime mover (4×2, 6×4) configurations with three cab options: Active Day, Active Time and Active Space. Euro 6 engines power these trucks, starting from the 8.7L Cursor 9 that produces 360hp/1,650Nm up to the powerful 12.9L Cursor 13 delivering 550hp/2,500Nm.
The Eurocargo shines in medium-duty applications with fuel-saving technologies that cut diesel use by up to 8% during urban deliveries. The Daily range serves the light commercial segment and now has electric eDaily variants.
Iveco performance
Innovation through advanced engineering drives Iveco forward. Their trucks use Hi-Tronix automated transmissions that deliver quick gear changes and last up to 1.6 million kilometres. These transmissions also offer specialised modes for different conditions.
The complete safety package has Advanced Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Warning. Iveco teams up with Plus and Transurban to develop groundbreaking semi-autonomous technology, with Australian road tests planned soon.
Iveco brand popularity
Iveco’s 30-year presence in Australia has built them a solid reputation in transport applications. Their extensive dealer network spans the country with major sales and service centres.
The brand grows its Australian presence by introducing technologically advanced models. They proudly continue their local manufacturing tradition that spans over three decades.
MAN
Image Source: MAN Truck & Bus Company
MAN has built its reputation in German engineering excellence for over 250 years and stands among Australia’s leading heavy truck brands. Penske distributes MAN trucks throughout Australia and New Zealand, providing transport solutions that meet Oceania’s unique needs.
MAN key models
The TGX range leads MAN’s long-haul lineup and comes in 6×4 configuration for heavy-duty transport. The TGS line gives operators flexibility with its range of engine options, GVMs and configurations. A slimline engine in the lighter TGM range allows greater payload capacity. Drivers can choose from several cab options that match their operational needs. These range from the roomy GX cab with 2,100mm standing height to the compact CC variant.
MAN performance
The trucks pack efficient engines from the 250hp D08 to the powerful 640hp D38 Euro 6e powerplant. MAN’s innovative TipMatic gearbox adapts shifting strategies automatically based on load and road conditions. The trucks come equipped with cutting-edge safety features. These include Active Brake Assist with pedestrian detection, Lane Change Collision Prevention Assist, and Traffic Jam Assist. Drivers get exceptional control with the Turbo EVBec’s 840hp engine braking power.
MAN brand popularity
MAN’s new TGX earned the International Truck of the Year award in 2021. The trucks spend more time on the road thanks to extended oil drain intervals. A complete national dealer network provides maximum support when needed.
Western Star
Image Source: www.westernstar.com.au
Western Star began its journey in Canada in 1967 and has grown into a prominent heavy-duty truck manufacturer that builds hand-crafted vehicles for Australia’s toughest conditions. The company joined the Daimler Truck group in 2000 and combines American muscle with Australian practicality in the heavy truck market.
Western Star key models
The X-Series leads Western Star’s flagship lineup with three main models. The versatile 47X delivers payload flexibility through its short, sloped bonnet and lets owners choose between Cummins L9 or Detroit DD13 Gen 5 engines. Australian drivers get exclusive access to the 48X, which offers exceptional versatility with Detroit DD13 Gen 5 (450-525hp) or DD16 (500-600hp) powerplants. The powerful 49X handles extreme applications and provides up to 200+ tonnes GCM capability with the mighty DD16 engine.
Western Star performance
These trucks come equipped with innovative safety technology. Active Brake Assist 5 functions at speeds down to 8 km/h, while Side Guard Assist improves visibility significantly. The reliable chassis uses high-strength steel frames with corrosion-resistant coatings that stand up to extreme conditions. The Detroit Powertrain maximises fuel efficiency through advanced aerodynamics and smart engineering.
Western Star brand popularity
The X-Series earned the prestigious Truck of the Year Australasia award for 2024. The 48X leads the sales charts and makes up 75% of all orders. Western Star has overcome its supply chain challenges and now has more than 500 trucks serving Australian roads.
Comparison Table
| Brand | Market Position (2024-25) | Key Models | Notable Performance Features | Manufacturing/Distribution | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenworth | 23.13% market share; #1 in heavy-duty | T909, K200, T610, K220 | Up to 625hp/2,050lb-ft torque | Australian-made (Bayswater, VIC) | 15-inch digital dashboard; 8-inch AV navigation |
| Mack | 5.71% market share | Anthem, Titan, Super-Liner, Trident | MP8: 435-535hp, MP11: 600-780hp | Australian-made (Wacol, QLD) | mDRIVE transmission; Euro 6 SCR technology |
| Volvo | 18.2% market share; #2 in heavy-duty | FH Aero, FH16, FMX, FM, FE, FL | Up to 780hp/3800Nm torque | Wacol facility; 1,600 employees | I-Save system; I-Shift transmission |
| Scania | #5 most popular brand | R-series, P-series, XT range, G-series | V8 engines up to 770hp/3,700Nm | 10 company-owned branches | Side curtain roll-over airbags; Twin-SCR system |
| Mercedes-Benz | #7 with 1,574 units (2023) | Actros, Arocs, Atego, Econic, Unimog | OM 471 engine with 4% fuel savings | Part of Daimler Truck Group | Active Brake Assist 6 Plus; Active Drive Assist 3 |
| Freightliner | Not mentioned | Cascadia 116, Cascadia 126 | DD13: 450-505hp, DD16: 500-600hp | 78 dealerships in AU/NZ | Detroit Powertrain; Active Brake Assist |
| Isuzu | #1 overall; 26.1% market share | N-Series, F-Series, FX-Series, FY-Series | 9-speed dual clutch transmission | Not mentioned | Full Speed Adaptive Cruise Control; Ready-to-Work range |
| Hino | 18.0% market share overall | 300 Series, 500 Series, 700 Series | A05 five-litre engine | Not mentioned | Hybrid Electric truck; Hino SmartSafe system |
| Fuso | #3; 7.7% market share | Canter, Fighter, Shogun, Rosa | Up to 510hp/2500Nm | Part of Daimler Truck Group | First all-electric truck (eCanter) in Australia |
| Iveco | Not mentioned | S-Way, Eurocargo, Daily | Up to 550hp/2,500Nm | Dandenong, Melbourne facility | Hi-Tronix transmission; Semi-autonomous testing |
| MAN | Not mentioned | TGX, TGS, TGM | 250hp-640hp range | Distributed by Penske | MAN TipMatic gearbox; Turbo EVBec |
| Western Star | Not mentioned | 47X, 48X, 49X | Up to 200+ tonnes GCM | Part of Daimler Truck Group | Active Brake Assist 5; Side Guard Assist |
Conclusion
The Australian truck market gives operators plenty of choices in all segments. This piece looks at what makes each major brand special and how they stack up against each other for 2025.
Kenworth leads the heavy-duty segment without doubt. Their Australian-built trucks are engineered specifically for our tough conditions. Isuzu rules the overall market and has been Australia’s top truck brand for 36 years straight. They really shine in light and medium-duty categories.
Safety tech has become the main goal for all manufacturers. Advanced driver assistance systems like autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control are standard features now. Scania stands out by offering side curtain roll-over airbags that you won’t find in other trucks.
Brands compete hard on fuel efficiency. Volvo’s innovative I-Save technology and Scania’s Super powertrain deliver amazing savings. Electric trucks are gaining ground too, with groundbreaking models like Fuso’s eCanter and Mercedes-Benz’s eActros leading the way.
Local manufacturing gives several brands an edge. Kenworth, Mack, and Volvo build their trucks here in Australia. This helps them customise vehicles for Australian conditions and supports local jobs and supply chains.
The market will keep changing as manufacturers try to meet the growing need for sustainability, smooth connectivity, and automation. All the same, Australian truck buyers will always look at reliability, performance, and total cost of ownership first.
You might want a versatile light-duty workhorse, a medium-duty all-rounder, or a heavy-duty powerhouse. This guide should help you pick based on what your operation needs. Each brand has its strengths – your best choice depends on your transport challenges.