Isuzu Truck of the Year Competition Returns for 2026

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) is gearing up for another big year of its iconic Truck of the Year competition, with entries opening for 2026 and inviting Isuzu owners across the country to showcase their hard-working rigs.

Now firmly established as one of Australia’s longest-running truck appreciation programs, the annual competition celebrates the ingenuity and owner pride and importantly, the real-world performance of Isuzu trucks across a wide range of industries.

Originally born in the pages of Truckpower magazine, the competition continues to evolve online – featuring monthly winners, customer stories and standout trucks shared across Isuzu Australia’s digital channels.

IAL Marketing and Advertising Manager Sam Gangemi said the competition remains a highlight of the calendar for both Isuzu and its customers.

“Truck of the Year is all about recognising the people behind the wheel and the trucks that keep Australian businesses moving,” Mr Gangemi said.

“Each year we see an incredible mix of innovation, customisation and passion from our customers – whether it’s a trade vehicle, freight hauler, waste truck or something completely unique.

“We’re excited to see what 2026 brings and to once again celebrate the vital role Isuzu trucks play across Australia.”

Entries now open

The 2026 competition opened in April and runs through to 30 November, with monthly winners progressing to the grand final.

Isuzu owners can enter online by submitting images and a short story outlining what makes their truck unique.

Monthly winners will receive $500 worth Isuzu Trucks merchandise pack and promotional exposure across Isuzu’s digital platforms, providing valuable visibility for their business.

Grand final Series winners across the N, F and FX/FY ranges will receive $1,500 gift card, with one of the three Series winners then going on to earn the title of Isuzu’s Truck of the Year and a $6,000 Grand Prize.

Recognising the best

Recent years competition winners once again demonstrated the diversity and capability of Isuzu trucks in real-world applications.

Last year, taking out top honours were The Glenapp Boys, entered by Rob Sibson, with an NPR 65-190 Crew Cab. The truck stood out for its versatility, presentation and contribution to community volunteer work.

The NPR is Rob’s daily driver and every Friday he loads supplies and heads out to Glenapp Railway Station, where he spends the weekend maintaining the historic site that he and his late brother, Dennis, began restoring years ago.

In 2024, Sydney Side Plumbing won the title of the top truck with an NLR 45-150, which sports a highly customised body for carrying plumbing and leak detection equipment.

“My Isuzu truck has a high-pressure water jet out the back, PVC pipe holders on top, and emergency lights and an LED board that can display messages while working on the road,” said Sydney Side Plumbing Director Mohammad Mourad.

VTG Waste & Recycling won first place in the 2023 round of the Truck of the Year competition with an FYJ 300-350 8x4 waste compactor used in recycling and commercial waste disposal in Darwin, Northern Territory.

“Isuzu trucks are reliable, functional and well-suited to the tough environment of the Top End,” said Managing Director of VTG Waste & Recycling, James Prakash.

A legacy of loyalty

Truck of the Year has long celebrated the strong connection between Isuzu and its customers, with past winners representing businesses of all sizes from across Australia.

From highly customised trade vehicles to heavy-duty workhorses in harsh environments, the competition reflects the versatility, reliability and innovation that define the Isuzu brand.

As entries open for 2026, Isuzu is once again calling on owners to step forward and share their stories.

“Whether your truck is fresh off the lot or a seasoned workhorse, we want to see it,” Mr Gangemi added.

“It’s your chance to put your pride and joy in the spotlight.”

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