MERCEDES-BENZ AXOR 2628 Trucks For Sale

The Mercedes Axor was launched in 2001 and continued through a couple of facelifts in 2004 and 2011 until it was discontinued in 2012 and replaced with the Antos. It's a versatile heavy truck and is used extensively as a tipper and hookloader and also in regional distribution, where it is a popular model in supermarket operations.

It fits beneath the larger Actros in the range and has generally smaller cabs and less powerful engines than its big brother. Not that this make it a lesser truck. In fact, it is more than adequately equipped for its duties and performs them with an admirable calm which comes from being designed perfectly for the job. It's a versatile beast too, equally at home as a tipper, rigid or tractor.

R-type cabs include the S day cab and SE extended day cab. There is also an L sleeper cab and LR twin sleeper with high roof. Where the larger 12-litre engines are fitted in the 8x4 tippers and tractor units, the larger C range cabs are also fitted. At the top of the range there is the Axor X cab, which is a high-roofed sleeper with an extended spec which includes an air-suspended seat, Powershift and Bluetooth. These cabs retain a typical squared-off design, but it has been softened a little by some aerodynamic side deflectors and a ‘V' shape grille. On construction models you will find excellent ground clearance and protective guards for the light clusters, which emphasise the truck's robust nature.

In the cabin, Mercedes have used typically high-quality materials that are chosen for their durability and long life. The controls are logically and simply arranged, with switchgear in the driver's door for secondary functions such as mirrors, windows, heating and central locking. You will find comfortable air-suspended seats and lots of storage space across the cab model range.

The engine range includes a 12-litre unit tuned to give 354, 401 or 428hp and torque ranges from 1850 to 2,000 and 2,100 Nm. Regardless of the option chosen, the driver will enjoy smooth power delivery and effortless pulling capabilities. There is a choice of manual gearboxes with 9 or 16 speeds and the option of a 12-speed Powershift automatic box. This latter unit saves weight and delivers extra payload in comparison to the manual boxes. It also gives better fuel economy and fast, smooth gear changes.

Handling is good and the all-steel suspension setup of the construction trucks is particularly hardy. The truck might give a little cab nod when off-road but this is minor and the shockers and stabilisers soon mop things up. Overall, the Mercedes Axor is an excellent piece of engineering that has been designed to fit perfectly in a number of niches. It is built to last and that means residuals are high but having been discontinued in 2012, a second-hand Mercedes Axor may soon become more affordable.