The 2019 UD Trucks Croner is the modern successor to the legendary Nissan Diesel Condor. Origin: Japan (though assembled in Thailand for global markets). First Generation: The Croner nameplate launched in 2017. Current Generation: It is currently in its 1st Generation. Designed specifically for emerging markets like Kenya, it prioritizes fuel efficiency and uptime over the complex electronics found in European trucks. It is a robust, medium-duty workhorse designed to save time (hence the name, from Chronos, the god of time).

Powered by the efficient GH engine family:

• 5.1L 4-Cylinder (GH5E): 180 HP / 210 HP. STANDARD Found in the MKE (10-14 ton) models. Ideal for city distribution (water delivery, hardware supplies).
• 7.7L 6-Cylinder (GH8E): 250 HP / 280 HP. Found in the PKE (15-17 ton) models. Massive torque (1050 Nm) makes it perfect for inter-county hauling (Nairobi to Mombasa).

• Allison Auto: The Croner offers a factory-installed Allison Automatic transmission. This reduces driver fatigue in Nairobi traffic and eliminates clutch replacements, lowering long-term maintenance costs.
• Wide Cab: The 2.3-meter wide cab offers space for a driver and two assistants. A sleeper bunk is standard on most long-wheelbase models, crucial for long-haul trips.

• Consumption: 4–5 km/l (GH5E). The built-in "Fuel Coaching" system on the dashboard guides drivers to stay in the green zone.
• Service: Intervals are extended to 20,000km (depending on oil quality). Parts are supported by the wider Isuzu East Africa network (since the merger).
• Telematics: UD Telematics hardware allows fleet managers to monitor fuel use and location in real-time.

High Torque: The GH engines produce peak torque at low RPM, making hill starts on the Escarpment easy. The chassis uses high-tensile steel for durability. It handles rough roads well, though the suspension is stiff (leaf springs).

The following prices represent the cost of buying a 2019 UD Trucks Croner (or equivalent UD Condor) in Kenya. These prices reflect showroom asking prices in major towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Who is this for? The fleet manager who wants to cut maintenance costs and driver fatigue with the automatic gearbox. Who is it NOT for? Those who prefer the mechanical simplicity of the older Nissan Diesel Condor—this is a modern, electronic truck.