LATEST additions to the Iveco Daily range were launched at the show. These include a new four-cylinder 3.0-litre diesel engine and the AGile variant with six-speed automated manual transmission.

Two power options are offered from the three-litre engine, a choice of 136bhp or 166bhp between 3,000 and 3,500rpm.

Torque from the 166bhp version peaks at 280lb-ft compared with 251lb-ft from the 136bhp variant. Maximum torque is available from around 1,400rpm. The most noticeable difference from other Dailys is the low noise levels from the 3.0-litre engine – far quieter than the 2.8-litre common rail diesel it replaces, or the smaller 2.3-litre HPI diesel.

Not surprisingly, a brief drive in a half-laden, 166bhp, 3.5-tonne GVW van proved effortless thanks to the low noise levels and the plentiful power.

With peak torque produced so low in the rev range, the engine pulled happily from low down. Even the 136bhp variant feels powerful enough, hauling a half laden 3.5-tonne tipper bodied chassis cab with almost as much ease.

Iveco has taken steps to keep running costs low. Timing chain replacement is scheduled after 220,000 miles, oil changes have been extended to 25,000 miles and the air filter doesn’t need replacing until 50,000 miles.

The six-speed automated manual box in the AGile gives the choice of manual or fully automated gear changes. At present it’s only available with the 2.3-litre HPI engine, which sounds noisy by comparison with the new 3.0-litre engines.

But the AGile option will be offered with the bigger engines later this year.

Gear changes are smooth enough, although the gearbox will only shift down one gear at a time, making junction approaches noisier than necessary. ABS brakes are standard with AGile models, while the auto box adds a further £690.