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The Freightliner Coronado has been one of the most iconic and best-selling heavy-duty trucks for over two decades. With its distinctive hood and sleek styling, the Coronado delivers top-notch power, efficiency, comfort, and customization. This guide will provide an in-depth look at what makes the Freightliner Coronado such an outstanding semi-truck.
Overview
The Coronado was first introduced by Freightliner in 1994 as the successor to the popular FLD model. Since then, it has established itself as one of the premier Class 8 trucks for long-haul applications. The Coronado gets its name from the historic Route 66 that runs through Coronado, California.
Over its production span, the Coronado has seen constant upgrades and improvements while retaining its signature style and reputation for reliability. It combines power, fuel efficiency, driver comfort, and cost-effectiveness for an all-around exceptional heavy-duty truck.
Freightliner Coronado Performance and Capabilities
The Coronado delivers robust performance thanks to powerful Detroit and Cummins engine options up to 605 horsepower and 2050 lb-ft of torque. The efficient diesel engines provide plenty of muscle for cruising down the highway while also optimizing fuel economy.
It handles well for a large semi-truck, with excellent maneuverability and a comfortable ride. The Coronado is offered in set forward axle (SFA) and set back axle (SBA) configurations to suit different applications. Various transmission choices include automated manual, automatic, and manual transmissions.
Rugged yet lightweight frame rails help maximize payload capacity up to 20,000 pounds for 5-axle sleeper configurations. The Coronado can handle heavy hauling jobs with ease.
Why is the Freightliner Coronado so popular?
Several key factors contribute to the Coronado’s widespread popularity:
- Proven reliability – The Coronado has a reputation for durability, with most trucks reaching over 1 million miles. This provides peace of mind for fleet owners.
- Customizability – From sleeper sizes to roof fairings and chrome accents, Freightliner offers extensive options for customizing your Coronado.
- Driver satisfaction – Plush interiors, ergonomic controls, and noise reduction create a comfortable environment for drivers. This helps improve driver recruitment and retention.
- Resale value – Demand for used Coronados stays strong, due to its reliability and custom styling. This makes it a smart investment.
- Fuel efficiency – Aerodynamic exterior styling and refined diesel engines mean excellent fuel economy and savings.
Specs At-A-Glance
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Years | Kenworth has been manufacturing trucks since 1923 |
| Model Variations | T680, T880, W900, T600, T370, T270, T170, C500, T440, T300, T120, T800, W900L |
| Hoods | Aerodynamic, Set-Back Axle |
| Suspension | Air ride, spring ride |
| Horsepower | Up to 605 hp with the PACCAR MX-13 engine |
| Transmission (Eaton Fuller) | 12-speed Manual, Automated Manual, Automatic (Allison) |
| Wheelbase | 126″-242″ |
| GVWR | Up to 105,000 lbs |
| Torque | Up to 2,050 lb-ft with PACCAR MX-13 engine |
| Sleeper Size | 40″-86″ sleepers available |
| Interior Trim Type | Diamond VIT, Splendor, Professional |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 66,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase Options | Short (126″), Medium (146″-212″), Long (230″-242″) |
Interior Features
The Coronado places a strong emphasis on driver comfort and convenience inside the cab. Key interior features include:
- Spacious cab with stand-up sleeper options
- Plush diamond-stitched upholstery
- Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
- Dual-zone climate control
- Refrigerator and other driver convenience amenities
- Available woodgrain accents and ambient lighting
- Ergonomic dashboard layout and switches
- Multiple power ports and cup holders
- Bluetooth, GPS navigation, and entertainment integration
Engine Specs
The Coronado offers a choice of benchmark diesel engines from Detroit and Cummins:
- Detroit DD13 – Up to 505 hp, 1850 lb-ft torque
- Detroit DD15 – Up to 605 hp, 2050 lb-ft torque
- Detroit DD16 – Up to 600 hp, 2050 lb-ft torque
- Cummins X15 – Up to 605 hp, 2050 lb-ft torque
These diesel powerplants provide enormous power and torque for tackling demanding routes with heavy loads. Yet they maintain outstanding fuel economy to save money at the pump. Advanced technologies like turbo compounding give added efficiency.
Sleeper Options
One standout feature of the Coronado is the available spacious, comfortable sleeper compartments for resting on long hauls. Sleepers come in different lengths and configurations:
- 34″ Flat Top Sleeper – Compact yet comfortable option
- 46″ Mid Roof Sleeper – Medium size, stand-up height
- 52″ Stand-Up Sleeper – Full stand-up room and storage
- 72″ Raised Roof Sleeper – Cavernous interior space
Sleepers can be customized with plush mattresses, cabinets, televisions, refrigerators, desks, and other upscale amenities for a home away from home.
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The Customizable and Still-Reliable Freightliner Coronado
A big part of Coronado’s appeal is the ability to customize it extensively while retaining the proven Freightliner quality. Customers can select from a vast range of options:
- Custom aerodynamic fairings and body packages
- Special paint colors and chrome trim
- Luxury cab interiors with hardwood floors
- Advanced telematics and entertainment
- Latest safety technologies
- Performance upgrades
- Expansive sleeper configurations
Yet it remains at its core a rugged, reliable long-haul truck. This combination of custom style and engineering excellence fuels the Coronado’s strong demand.
The Successor to the Freightliner Coronado
In 2021, Freightliner unveiled the new Cascadia as the successor to the Coronado in their lineup. The Cascadia features advanced styling and the latest technologies. However, the Coronado continues to be offered alongside the Cascadia as a premium truck model.
The Coronado fills a niche for buyers wanting traditional Freightliner style with hoods and sleepers. It remains a popular seller thanks to its proven reliability, customization, and value. The Coronado and Cascadia complement each other in Freightliner’s diverse heavy truck portfolio.
How Much Does a Freightliner Coronado Cost?
As a premium Class 8 truck, the Freightliner Coronado commands a higher price tag but offers great value considering its quality, custom options, and resale value.
Base prices start around $140,000 – $160,000 for day cab configurations. Sleeper models range from $165,000 up to $200,000 depending on sleeper size and customizations. Additional options can add $20,000 or more to the price.
| Year Range | Tandem Axle Price | Tri-Axle Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | $140,000 – $160,000 | $155,000 – $175,000 |
| 2020-2021 | $130,000 – $150,000 | $145,000 – $165,000 |
| 2018-2019 | $120,000 – $140,000 | $135,000 – $155,000 |
| 2016-2017 | $110,000 – $130,000 | $125,000 – $145,000 |
| 2014-2015 | $100,000 – $120,000 | $115,000 – $135,000 |
The Coronado costs more than average trucks upfront. But buyers find its best-in-class durability, driver appeal, and resale value make it well worth the investment.
FAQs
Q: What is the typical engine used in the Coronado?
A: The most common engines are the Detroit DD15 at 455-605 hp and Detroit DD16 at 500-600 hp. The Cummins X15 at 485-605 hp is also popular.
Q: What transmission comes in the Coronado?
A: Transmission choices consist of manual, automated manual, and automatic. The most common is the Eaton Fuller automated manual.
Q: What mileage does a Coronado typically achieve?
A: The Coronado averages 6-7 mpg when configured for fuel economy. This compares well against competitors for a highly aerodynamic Class 8 truck.
Q: Does the Coronado come in 6×4 or 8×6 configurations?
A: No, the Coronado is only available in 4×2 or 6×4 layouts. But wheelbase and axle spacing can be customized.
Q: How long has the Coronado been produced?
A: Freightliner first launched the Coronado in 1994. It continues production today nearly 30 years later thanks to its enduring popularity.
Final Thoughts
With its bold styling, brawny power, and customizable options, the Freightliner Coronado represents the ultimate heavy-duty truck. Its proven reliability over millions of road miles and continued popularity among long-haul fleets cement its status as a Class 8 icon. For drivers seeking comfort, owners wanting quality, and fleets demanding performance, the Coronado delivers on all fronts.
