The Chevy Low Cab Forward truck line includes a wide variety of power levels and specifications, ranging from the 3500, all the way up to 6500 XD. Now, however, GM Authority has heard whispers that a new, more-powerful 7500 model could be on the way.
Chevy Low Cab Forward 6500 XD pictured here.
First a little background. The Chevy Low Cab Forward range is part of Chevy’s medium duty truck line, and is produced via a partnership with Isuzu Motors. While the lower 3500 through 5500 models are equivalent to the Isuzu NPR range, the range-topping 6500 is equivalent to the much-larger Isuzu FTR, and comes equipped with an Isuzu 5.2L diesel I4 engine.
However, GM Authority has heard comments from some fleet customers/operators that the Isuzu 5.2L diesel I4 is a bit underpowered for the Chevy Low Cab Forward 6500 XD. For reference, the 5.2L diesel I4 currently offered in the 6500 XD makes 215 horsepower at 2,500 rpm and 520 lb-ft of torque at 1,650 rpm.
That’s where the new 7500 series comes in. Under the hood, it’s believed that the new top-dog Chevy Low Cab Forward truck could come with the 6HK1 turbodiesel powerplant, which is available as either a four-cylinder or a six-cylinder.
A version of the 6HK1 was was used in previous Isuzu FTR trucks, as well as the now-discontinued GMC TopKick and Chevy Kodiak (GMT560 platform). The 6HK1 engine family is highly regarded, with ample power and torque, as well as high levels of reliability and low maintenance costs, the latter of which equal low operating costs.
While the exact engine configuration for the upcoming Chevy Low Cab Forward 7500 is currently unknown, previous applications have offered a range of output in the Chevrolet Kodiak and GMC TopKick, including 200 to 300 horsepower, and 441 to 860 pound-feet of torque.
Of course, this is all just speculation for now, but rest assured, we’ll provide an update if we learn anything more. Until then, make sure to subscribe to GM Authority for more Chevrolet news and ongoing General Motors news coverage.
Comments
Oh I look forward to it coming out, want to experience new functions as introduced. Surely it will not disappoint me.
Just as I predicted!
There were rumors of a gas engine version too.
I’m glad they brought this model back but I was SORELY disappointed when I test drove it and realized the motor was severely undersized IMHO. I’ve drove box trucks for years and this motor just doesn’t have the HP needed to climb any incline to say the least. I was ready to buy because I love the cab overs, until the test drive. I ended up buying a Silverado 6500HD. If they do come out with a 7500 and a bigger engine I will be inclined to look again but for now I’m loving the Silverado 6500HD.