What is the Best Brand for Semi-Truck? MAN vs Volvo vs Scania

 

Searching for the best semi-trucks that perfectly fit your budget, needs, and comfort requirements can be tricky.  There are many semi-truck brands and manufacturers, so how can you opt for the most suitable one?  A comparison list between the latest series of the top 3 semi-truck manufacturers in Europe; MAN TGX Series, the Scania R and S Series, and the Volvo FH16 Series is provided below to facilitate your choice.  
 

MAN Trucks – TGX Model 

MAN is one of the world's largest producers of trucks. The German-based manufacturer is a subsidiary of Traton – part of the Volkswagen Group – so you know quality and precision run through every nut and bolt.   

The MAN TGX series has won multiple awards, including Best Truck of the Year 2021 by ITOY. With its low-emission engines that set the standard for energy efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness, the MAN TGX is a top-quality semi-truck with high load capacity and perfect body compatibility. 

• Fuel consumption 

The MAN TGX has been developed with new technologies that make it an outstanding choice when it comes to low fuel consumption. Many independent comparative tests show the MAN TGX’s fuel-saving features reduce fuel consumption by 3.7 % – making it an affordable and more sustainable option. 

• Comfort  

The MAN TGX has really impressive levels of comfort to make it an enjoyable drive for short and long-term journeys. The driver’s cockpit is streamlined and elegant with all features easily accessible within arm's reach. The rest and sleep area is equipped with a comfy mattress, overhead lights, loads of overhead storage space, and an infotainment screen.  

• Safety features 

Safety is a priority in the MAN TGX with its reliable assistance systems that keep you and fellow road users safe at all times. In addition to MAN’s legendary assistants, the MAN TGX has a new Traffic Jam Assist and ACC’s new stop-and-go function. These are designed to help you easily navigate your way through traffic congestion. 

• Digital features 

The TGX comes with MAN’s signature TeleMatics smart network. The app comes with numerous digital features such as driver, servicing, and fleet management. This takes truck monitoring to the next level.  

• Models 

The MAN TGX fleet is comprised of the following models: 

- TGX Long Haul 
- TGX Long Haul Special 
- TGX Food & Beverage 
- TGX Liquids & Gases 
- TGX Agriculture
- TGX Construction

Volvo Trucks – FH Series 

The Swedish-based multinational car manufacturer Volvo has a subsidiary company that focuses on manufacturing quality commercial trucks across Europe and worldwide. Volvo Trucks is a brand that is known for quality and safety and is used by top enterprises all over the world. 

The Volvo FH series is one of the most popular lines ever made in the industry, with over 400,000 units sold worldwide. The new Volvo FH16 combines a legacy of power and performance with modern features and streamlined ergonomics. 

• Fuel consumption 

The Volvo FH16 has a powerful 6-cylinder D16K engine which makes it a really fast and powerful vehicle. The payoff for a fast semi-truck is its impact on fuel consumption. As the FH16 cruises steadily at 85km per hour, which impacts wind resistance, the bigger engine also means higher friction loss resulting in nearly a 5% increase in fuel consumption compared to other trucks in its category. 

• Comfort  

The Volvo FH16 has classic FH comfort and style features that are defined by luxury and elegance. Perhaps the most beautifully designed interior on the list, the Volvo FH16 series is a standout in interior aesthetics. All buttons and knobs are precisely where they should be, making it a comfortable and enjoyable drive.  

• Safety features 

The FH16 is regarded as Volvo’s safest truck thanks to its incredible array of safety features. The engine’s genius I-Shift features make driving safer than ever by timing gear changes perfectly. The FH16’s Electronic Stability Control uses engine power and separate wheel brakes to prevent skidding and tipping. In addition, Volvo’s world-renowned safety tests make any Volvo truck on the road the safest.  

• Digital features 

The FH16 has a completely digital instrument display that allows you to tailor your work environment to your needs at the touch of a button. The 9-inch sight display gives you control of truck functions, including 8 cameras and applications.  

• Models 

Volvo’s FH16 fleet is comprised of the following models: 

- FH16 Globetrotter 
- FH16 Globetrotter XL 
- FH16 Globetrotter XXL 

Scania Trucks – S-Series 

Scania is a leading provider of trucks and buses for heavy transport applications. The Swedish-based business is also a leading provider of industrial and marine engines. Scania is also part of the Traton Group, powered by Volkswagen, which means you know you can rely on the quality of its new and used trucks.  

The Scania S-Series has been designed to honor 4 main functions: driver environment, fuel economy, optimal use of cabin space, and maximum reliability. 

• Fuel consumption 

S-series engines have SCR emissions-reducing technology designed for incredible fuel economy, low emissions, and smooth gear changes. The S-Series was designed closely with Porche Engineering to focus on aerodynamics that reduces wind resistance and thus fuel consumption. 

• Comfort  

Long-distance comfort is Scania’s ace, and the S-Series is all about quality comfort and a spacious experience. The S-Series is designed with a flat floor and extended storage facilities. The cockpit is simple and sophisticated, designed to make it an enjoyable driving experience. 

• Safety features 

Scania’s built-in safety feature – Side Detection – is very impressive and alerts drivers when vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians are in the blind spot. In addition, Scania’s S-Series trucks come equipped with side curtain airbags, reducing damage from side collisions and tips.  

• Digital features 

Apart from a fully digital information screen, the most significant aspect of the S-Series is the improved climate system that gives consistent temperatures with a faster response. The interior features quality insulation and auxiliary heaters, including coolers to keep the interior temperature comfortable for long hauls. 

• Models 

Scania’s S-Series fleet is comprised of the following models: 

- S-Sleeper Normal 
- S-Sleeper Highline 

Time to choose your truck 

It is always useful to have a rundown of the features of the available trucks in the market and now you have one for the MAN TGX Series, the Scania R and S Series, and the Volvo FH16 Series . Depending on your requirements, budget, and style preference, each truck type has its own features and functions that will suit you. 

These are among the top truck brands in Europe, so whichever you decide to choose, you won’t be disappointed. 

The fleets listed above are the most popular and latest offerings from these leading brands. Purchasing them new can overrun your budget. Luckily, you can find previous models from these series with similar features from third-party sellers online. Quality lasts forever, and opting for older models can be as much reliable as a new one.  

Buy a used truck with TIP Used 

Are you looking to purchase a second-hand MAN or Volvo or Scania truck? TIP Used is part of Europe’s leading truck and trailer leasing and rental provider TIP, and one of the largest suppliers of well-maintained second-hand trucks and trailers across Europe and North America.

With over 50 years of experience, TIP Used is one of the most trusted and respected names in the industry, offering a variety of well-maintained used trailers and trucks from its own fleet and the best brands in Europe, including Volvo, MAN, Scania, DAF, Krone, Schmitz, SDC, and many more.  
 
Visit tip-used.com to check the stock availability, as well as, save and compare your favorite assets using the website’s new features!  For more information contact one of the local Sales Managers and they will help you to find the best transport solution for your specific needs and budget!