MERCEDES-BENZ ACTROS 1843 Trucks For Sale

Mercedes Actros Review

---

Mercedes Actros at the IAA Hannover

The Mercedes Actros was launched way back in 1996 and is currently on its fourth version. It has won International Truck of the Year in both 2009 and 2012, so it is clear that Mercedes' high standards have been maintained. This is a truck that is rightly lauded for its excellent build quality and outstanding cabs and, along with the Volvo FH, is often considered to be the most reliable lorry in the 44-tonne sector. Mercedes also offers extensive warranties, making the trucks even more attractive to reliability-focused operators.

Wide Actros Range

The Actros range is also extensive, available in 4x2, 6x2, 6x4 and 8x4 axle configurations and as a tractor unit or rigid. Want to see all TruckLocator's Actros Tractor Units? Cabs available include the ClassicSpace, StreamSpace, BigSpace and GigaSpace.

The exterior design of the Mercedes Actros has always looked like it meant business, and the latest models are no exception. They are angular and dynamic, with a muscular stance that reflects the power of the lorry. An imposing grille houses the famed three-pointed star and the side view, with doors, bumper and wind deflectors all merging into a cohesive whole, is also pleasing. The design modifications were not just for show and were extensively tested in wind tunnels to improve the truck's aerodynamics and reduce fuel consumption.

Actros Cab Range

Cabs have always been a strongpoint on the Mercedes Actros. Later versions feature a flat floor, wraparound dash and lots of space. Instrumentation is impressive and clearly laid out and the dash uses superior plastics for a premium feel. If you can find one with the optional leather seats, then you are in for an even more special treat. Those seats include the largest and most accommodating units around and they come as rigid, suspended, comfort-suspended or climatised suspension models. This last version includes a massage function to ease those aches and strains. Indeed, in the higher-spec models the Mercedes Actros may just have the best cabs available today. The cockpit area is finished in contrasting colours to those of the rest of the cab, clearly creating separate environments for work and rest. Bunks are capacious and comfortable and later models can be levelled when parked on a hill.

Mercedes OM471 Power

The Mercedes Actros engine range features the six-cylinder OM 471, which is one of the most efficient in the segment. These days it comes in Euro 6 guise but most are found in Euro 5 setup and power ranges between 421hp and 510hp. Limitations of this engine include modest straight-line acceleration and limited pulling power on hills. If speed is more important to you, then the Scania R and Volvo FH are alternatives to consider. The engines are smooth, however, and they are wedded to the Powershift G211 transmission or automatic G281 12-speed box. Both are excellent and the latter needs virtually no manual intervention.

The Mercedes Actros' ride is another high point. Four air-suspension points cushion the cab and steel suspension units are weight-optimised to give the best performance in any sector. The engine retarder is good enough to be used in most situations and this keeps the service units fresh for those emergency situations. If you are looking for a truck that is truly at the top of its game, then a used Mercedes Actros could be the answer.

Other Models in the Mercedes Trucks Range

Trucks: Antos | Arocs | Atego | Axor | Econic | Unimog | Vario

Vans: Sprinter | Vito | Citan | X Class