Road Tests: Volvo FM12-380

We've covered the Volvo FM's core virtues often enough not to have to repeat them in full. The all-round combination of driver appeal and productivity makes for a jack of all trades and a master of many. However, this test is all about what, if anything, has been lost along with the clutch pedal. No-one would dare suggest that the Geartronic can do a better job than a very good driver on peak form. But, unlike even the best driver, Geartronic never gets tired or angry, never falls out with the wife and never worries about the result of the 3:15 at Lingfield. Modesty (oh, all right, reality) forces us to admit that we could never hope to improve on Geartronic's performance in the vast majority of circumstances, and in those few, clearly defined situations where manual control is preferable the chips are happy to relinquish the reins. It's not getting any easier out there. Anything that frees the driver's mind so it can give more attention to making the truck stop, go, point in the right direction and avoid all the idiots trying to walk, ride or drive under his wheels has to be worthwhile. Why make a human do what a microchip can do better, especially if you can save money at the same time? Give us the choice between Geartronic or 80 extra horsepower, and we'd dump the clutch every time. Enough said?