The Charm of the First Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Simple and sturdy structure with easy maintenance

The biggest appeal of the first-generation Fighter is its simplicity compared to modern electronically controlled trucks, and its robustness, which is typical of commercial vehicles. Introduced in 1984 as a successor to the FK series, it served as a medium-sized cab-over truck that supported various modifications, including flatbeds, dump trucks, refrigerated trucks, vans, mixers, and vehicles with cranes. For those looking for used Japanese trucks abroad, this generation has the major advantage of being 'easy to repair even if it's old' and 'can be handled with a feeling close to a mechanical system'. The design, which is said to be based on a proposal by Aldo Sessano (Open Design) like Mitsubishi Motors' Lancer EX at the time, is characterized by its European straight-line motif, a cab with good visibility, an easy-to-handle width, and a design that considers maneuverability on-site. The engine was primarily the 6D diesel series, with models offering different outputs depending on the application. While it does not have comfort features or safety assistance found in the latest models, its fewer number of parts is valued in countries and regions that prioritize basic maintenance. In particular, it is appreciated as a practical vehicle in harsh environments such as short-distance delivery, agriculture, construction, and material transportation.

Drawbacks of the First Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Differences in parts and condition due to the age of the vehicle

The main drawback of the first-generation Fighter is the significant variance in condition between individual vehicles, given the long time that has passed since the end of their production. Vehicles that have been used for many years in Japan may have issues such as rust on the chassis, corrosion under the cab, distortion of the loading platform, oil leaks, and worn clutch and brake systems. Particularly, dump trucks or other construction vehicles may have records of being overloaded or driven on rough roads, making it risky to judge based solely on mileage. Also, there may be countries or regions where the vehicle does not meet current emission standards and safety requirements. Before importing, it is essential to check the local regulations for vehicle age, emission standards, registration availability for right-hand-drive vehicles, and vehicle gross weight classification. As for parts, while general consumables may be available, the supply of exterior panels, interior parts, and old electrical parts is limited. When purchasing, it is crucial not only to consider price but also check the undercarriage photos, engine start-up videos, maintenance history, and fitting conditions.

Rival of the first generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Isuzu Forward

The primary rival of the first-generation Fighter is the Isuzu Forward. The Forward is a model that has long supported the medium truck market in Japan and is highly popular overseas for its durability, parts supply, and ease of maintenance. While the Fighter boasts a powerful engine feel characteristic of Mitsubishi Fuso and a robust chassis, the Forward is often appreciated for its large market circulation, extensive maintenance network, and fuel economy. When comparing used vehicles, one should consider not only the model but also the body type and condition. For instance, even within the same 4-ton class, the value significantly differs between a flat body, dump truck, aluminum wing, and refrigeration truck. The Fighter is suitable for users seeking power in construction and heavy load carrying, while the Forward is ideal for those requiring balance in delivery and general freight. Both are popular for overseas export, but the Fighter is particularly valuable in regions where Mitsubishi Fuso parts are readily available.

Specs of the first generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Engine: 6D14, 6D15, 6D16 Series Diesel Engines Transmission: 5MT / 6MT Drive system: FR (some specifications include 4WD) Features: A robust mechanical engine with a simple structure. There's minimal electronic control, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions, resulting in exceedingly high maintainability overseas. Primarily, we provide 4-ton flatbed and dump trucks.

The Appeal of the Second Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Modern cab and improved usability

The second-generation Fighter was a fully remodeled edition that was introduced in 1992. It is officially described by Mitsubishi Fuso as a model that has enhanced design elements and living space. While it maintains the practical emphasis of the first generation, the cabin design has become more rounded, and comfort around the driver's seat has been improved. In a medium-sized truck that is often driven for long hours, the field of vision, seating arrangement, control layout, and ease of getting in and out are directly related to work fatigue, making this evolution a major point. In the overseas used car market, this generation can be valued for its more contemporary impression than its predecessor while still maintaining a relatively simple structure. The main engines are from the 6D diesel series, with a wide range of specifications depending on the load and body configuration. Its utilization in Japan for delivery, construction, industrial waste, and refrigerated transportation has resulted in a rich variety of used car options. For buyers who find the first generation too old or the new model with too many electronic controls to be cumbersome, the early to mid-term second-generation Fighter is an option to consider.

The shortcomings of the second generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

The usage gap is significant in used cars.

A drawback of the second-generation Fighter is that many of them have been heavily used as commercial vehicles, accumulating more damage than may appear. For medium-sized trucks, just because the mileage is low doesn't mean it's safe. If it's a refrigerated truck, you need to check the operational hours of the refrigeration unit, for dump trucks, the wear and tear of the loading platform and hinges, for wing trucks, the condition of the opening/closing mechanism and floor, and for cranes, the condition of the boom and outriggers. In addition, depending on the year of manufacture, compliance with emission standards may be an issue in certain countries or regions. When exporting from Japan, local registration systems may focus on either the "year of manufacture", "year of first registration", "emission standards", or "right-hand drive availability", which can affect the ability to import. Furthermore, the interior and exterior parts of trucks from the 1990s are prone to aging and deterioration. Rubber parts of the cab, around the doors, meters, and switches can be damaged as well. When purchasing a truck, one should not only consider the price of the vehicle but also account for maintenance costs after transport.

Second generation rival of the Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Hino Ranger

The strong rival of the second-generation Fighter is the Hino Ranger. The Ranger has a very high reputation in the Japanese medium-size truck market, and it is popular overseas as a model that excels in durability and maintainability. While the Fighter has Mitsubishi Fuso-like practicality and power, the Ranger is often chosen for its stability, circulation, and ease of parts supply. From the perspective of used exports, which truck is superior depends on the intended use. If you're using it in mountainous areas or on construction sites, it's worth choosing the Fighter, prioritizing engine output and chassis condition. On the other hand, if you're considering general cargo or long-term ownership, you should also compare the local availability of Hino parts. The Fighter, in particular, can be very cost-effective if you can find a good condition vehicle within your budget. Overseas buyers should not just base their choice on the brand name, but also consider whether the bodywork suits their work and whether spare parts are available locally, to avoid making mistakes.

Specifications of the Second Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Engine: 6D16, 6D17, 6M60 (Early Model) Transmission: 5MT / 6MT / AT Drive System: FR / 4WD Features: The New Fighter, which has enhanced livability and design. Adopting a modern, rounded cab has improved the comfort of long-distance driving. A wide range of increased tonnage variations available.

The Charm of the Third Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

A mid-term model that balances power and practicality.

The 1999 Fighter is officially recognized as a major improvement on the second generation, but it's worth considering it as a separate generation in the buying guide. According to the Mitsubishi Fuso official, in 1999, they significantly revamped the interior and exterior, adopted a new engine, and achieved a maximum output of 270PS with an intercooler turbo engine. This has made it easier to cope with a wide range of uses including delivery, construction, and long-distance transportation, as it provides more leeway during high-speed driving and heavy loading than the previous model. This period's Fighter is more comfortable than the old generation and keeps the used car price lower than later models, which is attractive. Particularly in foreign markets, it tends to be highly rated by users looking for a powerful 6-cylinder diesel, with practical vehicle bodies like wing, refrigerated, dump, and self-loader being likely candidates. There are plenty of models that aren't overly reliant on complex electronic controls, making them easier to handle even in regions with limited maintenance environments.

Cons of the third generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Verification of emission regulations and early generation electronic control is required.

Fighters from 1999 onward have seen performance improvements, but this is also the period in which they've started meeting emissions regulations and introducing electronic controls. As a result, maintenance may require specialized knowledge compared to the older first and second generations. The ability to diagnose issues with engine warning lights, fuel injection systems, turbos, EGR-related issues, and various sensors after export is crucial. Even vehicles that ran without issues in Japan may encounter problems in countries with different fuel quality and maintenance environments. Also, due to their age, these vehicles could be over 20 years old, so rust in the cab, frame corrosion, electrical system degradation, air leaks in air suspension vehicles, and issues with refrigeration units and wing devices should be noted. When buying, don't just rely on exterior photos but also check the undercarriage, engine room, meter displays, warning lights, exhaust color, and whether a test drive is possible. The cheaper the vehicle, the higher the potential cost of repairs after import.

Third Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter's Rival

UD Trucks Condor

A common rival often compared to the Fuso Fighter at this time is the UD Trucks Condor. The Condor, like the Fighter, has been a frequently used model in Japan's medium-duty truck market, widely adopted for construction, distribution, and special vehicle purposes. While the Fighter is often chosen for its robust engine and a wide range of specifications, the Condor is often considered for its reliable construction and balance with used vehicle prices. For overseas buyers, an important consideration is the availability of parts from various brand networks in their area. In regions where the Mitsubishi Fuso parts network is strong, the Fighter offers an advantage. However, in areas with extensive servicing experience for UD and Nissan Diesel systems, the Condor can also be a strong contender. If you're choosing the Fighter, pay particular attention to the condition of the six-cylinder diesel engine, turbo performance, gear shifting, clutch weight, and chassis rust. The high-performance specification is definitely attractive, but if the maintenance condition is poor, it can lead to higher operating costs. Therefore, a vehicle with maintenance records is ideal.

Specifications of the 3rd Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Engine: 6M60 series Intercooler Turbo Transmission: 6MT / AT Drive system: FR Features: Significant increase in output due to the introduction of an electronically controlled common rail system (maximum class of 270PS). In overseas markets, evaluations are divided between those who prefer the conventional '6D series (mechanical)' and those who prefer the powerful '6M series’.

The Appeal of the 4th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Balance of modern cabs and used circulation volume

The 2005 Fighter is technically the second-generation model with significant improvements, but with its drastically changed interior and exterior, it is essentially a full-change model. In 2005, it adopted a new cab design and development management system, winning the Good Design Award for 2005-2006. Its modern appearance and improved cab comfort and operability make it an easy choice for overseas used truck buyers. This generation is attractive as it is widely available in the used market and offers a good balance of model year, price, and equipment. Models equipped with the 6M60 diesel engine are the mainstay, with a variety of specifications such as aluminum wing distribution vehicle, refrigerated truck, flat body, dump truck, and crane-equipped models. More comfortable and safer than older vehicles and less expensive than newer ones, it is a very practical choice for overseas export as a utility vehicle.

Drawbacks of the 4th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Management of post-processing equipment such as DPF and Urea SCR

When choosing a Fighter manufactured after 2005, pay attention to the condition of the emission control devices and electronic control systems. As the model year increases, so does the environmental performance. However, with this, the management of DPF, EGR, urea SCR, various sensors, etc., becomes important. Even if they are properly maintained in Japan, using low-quality fuel in the export destination or idling for long periods can lead to problems such as DPF clogging and warning lights. Also, expensive bodywork options like aluminum wings and refrigerated vehicles may cost more to repair than the vehicle body itself. Purchasing without checking the wing movement, hydraulic pump, refrigeration unit temperature drop, floorboard corrosion, and side door sealing could lead to large expenses after import. This generation is attractive as used cars, but the cheaper the individual, the more carefully you need to consider "why is it cheap".

Rival of the 4th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Isuzu Forward / Hino Ranger

This generation's Fighter competes directly with Isuzu Forward and Hino Ranger. The Forward is popular for its fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance, while the Ranger is known for its durability and stability, both of which are strong brands in the overseas used car market. The Fighter arms itself with the powerful 6M60 engine, a wide range of superstructures, and the reliability of the Mitsubishi Fuso brand. When deciding to purchase, it's recommended to prioritize usage over brand. If it's for long-distance transportation or primarily for highway use, prioritize engine output and cabin comfort. For urban delivery, vehicle size, minimum turning radius, fuel efficiency, and the existence of an automatic transmission are important. For construction purposes, check the reinforcement of the dump frame, PTO, suspension, and tire conditions. If you choose a Fighter with a good condition 6M60 engine, it'll provide a good balance of power and durability, making it a long-lasting vehicle overseas.

Specifications of the 4th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Engine: 6M60 Series (7.545L inline 6-cylinder diesel turbo) Transmission: 6MT / INOMAT-II (Mechanical automatic AT) Drive system: FR Features: Models from 2010 onwards incorporate "BlueTec (urea SCR)", requiring the use of AdBlue (liquid urea) for operation. Both interior and exterior have been significantly redesigned, making this generation a popular choice with a good balance of availability and demand in the used car market.

The Appeal of the 5th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Choose between 4V20 and 6M60 models based on their use.

The appeal of the current Fighter model lies in its ability to choose between a 4-cylinder and a 6-cylinder engine depending on use. Mitsubishi Fuso officially explains that they have equipped the lightweight 4-cylinder 4V20 engine for GVW 7.5t and 8t vehicles, and the spacious 6-cylinder 6M60 engine for GVW 8t to 20t class vehicles. The 4V20 is a 3.907L in-line 4-cylinder intercooler turbo, and the 6M60 is a 7.545L in-line 6-cylinder intercooler turbo. The 4V20-equipped model added in 2018 is characterized by its ability to achieve a maximum weight reduction of about 300kg compared to the 6M60-equipped vehicle, ensuring a high loading capacity in the GVW 8t class. The 4V20 is suitable for regular road deliveries and applications focusing on loading efficiency, while the 6M60 is suited for long distances, highways, and heavy loading. The 4V20 has specs of 125kW (170PS)/520Nm, and the 6M60 has specs of 220PS, 240PS, and 270PS, making it easy to choose according to the nature of your operations.

Drawbacks of the 5th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

It is necessary to check the purchase price of the new model and the maintenance environment.

The drawbacks of the current Fighter series include high second-hand vehicle prices and increased electronic controls and safety equipment, which require careful selection of maintenance environments in the export destination. Advanced safety equipment, DPF, Urea SCR, common rail fuel injection, and various sensors can provide significant benefits if functioning properly. However, in regions lacking diagnostic tools, genuine parts, and maintenance know-how, repairing failures may take time and cost. Additionally, while the 4V20 model is appealing for its lightness, fuel efficiency, and high load capacity, for applications that require a lot of high-speed running, heavy loading, and mountain driving, the more robust 6M60 may be more suitable. Conversely, in city delivery and short to medium distance applications where excessive power is not necessary, the 6M60 can be disadvantageous in terms of vehicle weight and fuel efficiency. When choosing the current series, it is important not just to consider "new is good," but to select an engine according to the road conditions, fuel quality, maintenance structure, load weight, and driving distance in the use area.

Rivals of the 5th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Isuzu Forward / Hino Ranger / UD Croner

The current rivals of the Fighter are the medium to large-sized Isuzu Forward, Hino Ranger, and UD Quon/Croner trucks. In terms of used exports from Japan, the Forward and Ranger have a larger circulation, giving them an advantage in parts supply. On the other hand, the Fighter’s highlights are the lightweight, high-load capabilities of the 4V20, and the comfortable ride offered by the 6M60. The 4V20’s cost effectiveness is a strength in urban deliveries, food deliveries, and general freight. In refrigerated trucks, wing trucks, long-distance transport, and areas with many mountainous roads, the spare capacity of the 6M60 is reassuring. UD models have a pricing advantage depending on the market, with Hino trucks being regarded for reliability, and Isuzu trucks excelling in circulation and maintenance. If you choose the Fighter, it would be reassuring to confirm in advance whether diagnostic services and parts supply from Mitsubishi Fuso are available locally, and whether maintenance of DPF and urea SCR is possible.

Specifications of the 5th Generation Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

Engine: 4V20 (3.9L 4-cylinder) / 6M60 (7.5L 6-cylinder) Transmission: 6MT / Mechanical AT Drive system: FR Features: Option to choose between lightweight, fuel-efficient 4-cylinder (ideal for urban delivery) and heavy-duty 6-cylinder. Equipped with advanced safety features like ABA4. Requires designated diagnostic equipment for failure detection, in addition to DPF and urea SCR management.