Road Tests & Reviews: MAN TG-A (2000 - )Euro 4

Road Tests:

• MAN, MAN TG360L, 08 Nov 2001
• MAN, MAN TGA, 25 Nov 2004
• MAN, MAN TG-A 410A (used), 11 Dec 2003

Tractor models:

MAN’s fleet TG-A has a choice of narrow day, standard-height sleeper or LX high-roof sleeper cabs. MAN has opted for EGR at Euro 4, and offers the 10.5-litre D20 engine or the all-new 12.8-litre D26 at 480 and, soon, 540hp (albeit with SCR rather than EGR), All have Tipmatic transmission (yet another version of ZF's AS-Tronic) as standard. Chassis choice is between a 4x2 or 6x2 mid-lift (with optional 19.5in mid wheels) or tag lift.

You can tell a premium version of the TG-A by its full-width cab, even if it does share the same engine options as its fleet cousin. But it’s the cabs that really make the difference, from the XL standard height sleeper, through the recently-introduced XLX intermediate height model right up to the mega-big XXL with the ultimate “5 Star” trim option. Chassis choice is the same as for fleet models.

Tipper models:

MAN has worked on the TG-A, in engineering and marketing, to make it more of an all-rounder for tipper operators and unlike the TGM it gets many more options.

To start with there are three narrow cabs available, M, L and XL, although the 6x4 gets only the M and L versions.
On four axles there are two types of chassis; the 32t model is for aggregates, and is also available as an ERF although in name only, while the 35t design TG-A is MAN only and for the heavy duty market.

The D20 engine is well appointed here and it’s lighter than most competitors with options up to 440hp to suit most outfits. Cab position is high, which tends to go against traditional UK spec, but it does improve ergonomics with the spacious day cab and offers a better driving position.