Sterling Truck Rolls Out Another 360 Model

Sterling Truck Corp. continues to expand its light commercial vehicles line with a new model introduced last month – the Class 3 Sterling 360. The truck is the lightest in Sterling's full range of Class 3-8 trucks.

Sterling also introduced a number of product enhancements for its 2008 model year Sterling 360 trucks.

Introduced in early 2006, the Sterling 360 is a versatile low cab-over truck that helps maximize fuel economy.

Every 2008 model year Sterling 360 – Class 3, 4 and 5 – will be rolling off the line with several new product enhancements, including increased horsepower, a lowered chassis and standard cruise control.

The new Class 3 Sterling 360 is currently available for order, and will be available at dealerships in the fall.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of 12,500 pounds, the Class 3 Sterling 360 is ideal for businesses that don't require the capacity of a Class 4 or 5 truck. Like the rest of the Sterling 360 line, Sterling says, it offers excellent maneuverability and a roomy, comfortable cab in addition to good fuel economy.

The Class 3 model also features an on-board diagnostics system (OBD-II), a new standard for light vehicles. OBD-II provides a universal inspection and diagnosis method to be sure the vehicle is performing correctly and to EPA emissions standards. This feature will also be available on 2008 Class 4 and 5 Sterling 360 trucks.

Several improvements in the Sterling 360's engine are being introduced as a result of the changes made to comply with EPA '07 emissions standards. The new diesel particulate filter – a requirement for all 2008 model year trucks – has been tested in the Japanese market for several years. Its compact design allows for fewer disturbances during body installation and also safeguards the Sterling 360's ground clearance. The engine changes also resulted in increased power, upgrading the Sterling 360's engine from 175 to 185 horsepower.

Additionally, due to the improved cooling system and a change in frame height, the Sterling 360's chassis was lowered 2 inches, making it easier to load and unload.

All Sterling 360s now come with cruise control as a standard option. The improved electronic engine management system allows the operator to not only use the cruise control to set engine speed, but also to limit top speed and accelerate the engine during stationary power take-off applications.

The Sterling 360's list of options also expanded with the addition of an 189-inch wheelbase on the Class 5 model, as well as a keyless entry system available on all Sterling 360 models.