2010 Scania P Series

Design

In 2011 the Scania P Series received a small facelift and its exterior was restyled in accordance with the G- and R-series. The new generation also features revisions to the front to cope with the cooling requirements for the future Euro 6 emission standards which will be required in 2013.

The new generation P Series features sharper lines and larger grille openings, as well as the standard Silver Brilliant grille colour and a larger Scania logo. The truck keeps the flowing lines pattern which made Scania’s design language so famous and also features a host of aerodynamic deflectors to enhance the truck’s efficiency. The revised bumpers are now available in two heights, both with integrated mounting space for the Adaptive Cruise Control radar at the centre.

Interior

The P series features a typical curved dashboard combined with a multifunctional four spokes steering wheel. Unsurprisingly, the build quality is top notch while the fittings are solid and look lasting. We also like the overall ergonomy which makes evident the engineer’s care for driver’s comfort.

The instrument cluster is fitted with big gauges which are clear to read and also feature a red and white color combination which is pretty catchy. Besides the common circular gauges, the instrument cluster is also offered with an optional trip computer which features a digital display to provide trip statistics and different vehicle data while driving.

The truck seats are also among the best in class and feature a wide range of adjustments which permit you to find a comfortable driving position. The steering wheel can be also adjusted for reach and rake further enhancing the comfort.

As most of the trucks in this segment, the road visibility is great too. On the other hand, even if the side visibility is not bad, you’ll miss the slope bottom line of the door windows which can be found at some trucks in the segment, as it offered a better view. Each cab is also fitted with large, well-positioned and adjustable mirrors. Moreover, the trucks can be equipped with camera systems with full-frontal display monitors that offer a wider and more centered field of vision.

The Sleeper cab features a full sized bed which will prove to be pretty comfortable for overnight sleeps. The cab also features the many generous storage places including lockers above the windscreen and under the bed. Besides that, there are also plenty of cubby holes and cup holders spread across the cabin to make your life on board easier.

Engines and transmissions

The Scania P series is available with a choice of 9-, 12- or 13-liter engines with different power outputs. Unlike most of the trucks in the segment, Scania’s engines don’t need any additives (such as AdBlue) to meet the Euro 5 norms and can run solely on diesel, thanks to the two stage Exhaust Gas Recirculation emission technology. This advanced technology is a unique feature that can be found only at Scania’s trucks and reduces emissions during combustion, directly in the combustion chamber. In this way it lowers nitrogen oxide emissions by cooling and reusing a portion of the exhaust gases.

The 13-litre inline Euro 5 engines come with extra-high pressure fuel injection and variable geometry turbocharger and offers maximum outputs of 360hp and 400hp outputs being the most capable engine in the P Series range.

Scania’s 9-litre 5-cylinder inline engine delivers the same advantages as the Scania 13L engines, but in a more compact configuration and develops 230, 280 and 320hp. There is also available the 9-Litre EEV engine that can exceed the Euro 5 emission levels.

The P series can be equipped with either 8- or 12-speed gearboxes which can be fitted with fully integrated Scania’s Opticruise and Retarder. The Opticruise is an automated gear changing system that removes the manual interventions needed to change gears, hence keeping the driver concentrated on the road. The new Opticruise is available in either a fully automated version with a unique automatic clutch, or with a classic clutch pedal. As most of today’s automated gearboxes, Scania’s Opticurise offer smooth and precise performances combined with low fuel consumption and improved uphill drivability.

The transmission range is completed by the fully automatic 6 speed Allison unit, which is perfectly suited for stop and go driving and is available for all Scania P Series engines.

Engines specifications

Ride and Suspensions

The P Series can be equipped with either two- or four-spring air suspensions. These suspensions are Robust, lightweight and low-maintenance, and offer a pleasant ride and easy load handling. The truck is also available with conventional steel, suspensions with parabolic and multi-leaf springs offer which are a more economical option.

Together with the capable suspensions, Scania’s power assisted system is also able to deal with a lot of turning situations without any problems and receives full marks as well.

The Truck comes with standard all round discs brakes with EBS (Electric Brake System) and ABS. To assure optimum slowing power with minimum discs usage, the P Series is also equipped with a hydraulic retarder integrated into the gearbox. Thanks to this feature the truck’s speed can be fully controlled when it deals with downhill sections. You can engage the Retarder braking with a dab on the brake pedal or using the lever mounted on the steering column. Moreover, the retarder can be set to automatically work with the service brakes at all times, and the company says that it can reduce the service brake usage by up to 75 percent… which is quite impressive.

Verdict

It is hard to make a bad choice when choosing a truck for distribution transport, as most of today’s products are good performers. However, the P Series is among the best models in this segment. Its engines are reliable, strong and most importantly very efficient. Not to mention, that Scania’s units can respect the Euro 5 emission norms without using AdBlue, and this says a lot about their quality.

Scania’s trucks have also almost the best acceleration in the segment, so you can rely on them with confidence being able to leave rivals like Volvo far behind. The cabin is also fault free and its ergonomically designed dash and seats offer a pleasurable driving experience.

VIdeo: Scania P Series Engines

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