It has been five years since the current generation of man-trucks appeared on our roads. With the launch in 2020, the innovations were mainly in favor of the driver. With some aerodynamic improvements and a brand new engine, the TGX also received a considerable update.
The TGX has hardly changed the appearance. In comparison with the previous model we tested, the only difference is the lower cabin (GM instead of GX) and some aerodynamic adjustments to the chassis and the Zijskirts.
Power Lion
Drive line. The new engine and automated gearbox together form the ‘Power Lion’ driving line. The D3066 engine achieves a return of more than 50% and was developed to lower the consumption by 5% compared to the previous generation. He has been in production since March 2025 and from now on he is the heart of the heavy range, to replace the D26 and D15 engines.
Not really surprisingly, he shares his most important characteristics with the super-engine of Scania, because he is based on the communal engine platform of the Traton group, although the man-gainmeurs do give him his own motor character through specific software. The injection is of the XPI Common Rail with high pressure (1800 bar) and is combined with a double SCR system for the post-treatment of the exhaust gases.
We drove with the 520 hp model, with full power available from 1800 to min. The maximum torque of 2650 Nm is already reached at 900 to mines-30 to minus earlier than with the D26 engine-and remains available up to 1350 to min.
The new automated tipmatic gearbox is 60 kg lighter than the previous one. She was developed by Man herself and has 14 gears ahead and two backwards. This gearbox also allows very accurate maneuvering at low speed, with closed coupling. Thanks to loading and slope detection, the system always chooses the best switching strategy.
The TGS and TGX also received a new generation of disc brakes, but especially the new CRB motor (Compression Release Brake) stands out with a maximum braking power of 355 kW. For more complex conditions, an optionally a disconnected delayer is available with a maximum braking couple of 4700 Nm.
More Comfort
Cabin. Already when opening the door you see a typical man-detail: a row of four buttons at the bottom. In addition to the button for the warning lights, the other three can be programmed freely from 15 functions. A great find that saves the driver a lot of unnecessary getting in and out.
The small steering wheel is modern, multifunctional and especially fully adjustable. The dashboard looks pronounced modern, with high -quality materials and a well -kept finish. The fully digital instrument panel offers new functions, such as the display of the MTM. On the 12.3 ”color screen, an overview of the most important info appears immediately when you board, without having to make the contact.
In general, the display mode has become easier, which makes it easier to keep attention to the road. Another man-exclusivity is access to certain functions via an adjustable rotary knob, which can be easily operated thanks to the placement on a wrist support.
The storage space in the GM cabin is more than sufficient. On the right before the passenger seat, the driver has a folding table that is clearly inspired by his Scandinavian cousin.
Driving impressions & performance. Globally the intrinsic qualities of the TGX cabin are retained, but the Tipmatic gearbox reacts faster and works more effectively in function of the relief. The new man EasyStart function with slope brake also helps to leave smoothly and in a controlled manner.
The driver chooses from three driving modes. Efficiency Plus does not allow manual circuits or kickdown and does its name all the honor. Efficiency is the normal driving position, while performance-similar to the former power mode-offers extra power when needed. The delegate offers powerful braking capacity without compromises.
The cabin came across to us quieter: the sound insulation was improved thanks to an intermediate layer in the windshield and a better encapsulation of the powertrain.
With the digital man Optiview cameras we expected a favorable consumption. For comparison: in 2023 we recorded an average of 26.38 l/100 km with the same power. We ended this test with a pleasant surprise on the pump: only 25.13 l/100 km! It proves that man may work discreetly, but does make progress with what also becomes his last new diesel engine.
Well to know
• The new generation has been on the market for five years
• The driver is central to the design
• Fuel saving remains a priority
Technical sheet man TGX D30 520 hp
• Cabin: GM
• Motor: Man D3066
• Cylinder capacity: 12.7 L
• Type: 6-in-line
• Power: 520 hp at 1800 to min
• Couple: 2650 Nm (900 /1350 to min)
• Standard: Euro VI / E
• Transmission: Tipmatic 14.33 / 14+4
• Motor brake: CRB / 355 KW
• Drawer: Retarder 47/4700 Nm
• Wielbase: 3600 mm
