For more information on these trucks and their individual spec sheets and brochures, see here.
Most Popular Freightliner Models
Freightliner makes up 40% of the truck market in North America, and has several extremely popular models from across its range. These include:
Cascadia
The Cascadia is the single most popular Class 8 truck in the U.S., and is the standard for long-haul drivers seeking a balance between comfort, safety and efficiency. Advanced aerodynamics make it the most fuel-efficient Freightliner available, and many praise the savings they reap from lower fuel costs.
It comes with advanced safety features as standard, including disc brakes and Detroit Assurance 5.0 collision mitigation, as well as an Integrated Detroit Powertrain for optimal drivetrain efficiency. Extensive in-cab connectivity, an integrated on-board diagnostic system, possible automatic transmission and functional yet comfortable cab design round out the impressive list of benefits this truck offers. There are five engines to choose from (Detroit and Cummins) and seven cab configurations, as well as a wealth of other possible features and customizations.
114SD and 112SD
These two heavy-duty, Class 8 trucks are similarly matched in both engine capacity and available maximum torque, and they are both tough and reliable vehicles found on construction sites, drilling fields, and even in our cities operating as refuse trucks. These durable trucks offer increased driver visibility and wheel cuts up to 50 degrees, so they can be safely manoeuvred in even the smallest areas.
The 114SD has three cab configurations (114in BBC is the smallest), Detroit or Cummins engines, manual or automatic transmission, and seven suspension and two axle configurations to choose from. The 112SD comes with very similar options, though it is worth noting that the 114SD distinguishes itself with a corrosion-resistant cab that is reinforced with e-coated steel. But both of these models have the higher horsepower and heavier suspensions needed for high wear tasks.
Where to Buy Freightliner Trucks in Canada
As the best-selling truck brand in North America, finding a Freightliner to buy is not difficult. A good place to start is with your local Freightliner dealer; there are literally dozens of official dealerships across Canada, and you can find your nearest here.
In addition to the official dealerships, many other truck dealers may have Freightliners available, although their stock can vary. Luckily, many dealers list their inventory online, and it is through these sites, as well as online marketplaces, that you can more easily track down a particular model or type, and also compare prices and find the best deal for you.
What to Consider When Buying a Freightliner Truck
Financing Options
Freightliners are among the most affordable trucks available, but their price tag is still nothing to sniff at. Most people and businesses contemplating a new truck will need to obtain financing to assist with their purchase. As a buyer, you’ll have a few financing options available: through your dealer, or online. Dealerships often work with local banks or credit unions to help their customers get financing, but it is by no means guaranteed. Many people find it quicker and simpler to get their financing online, with some even pre-applying for their loan, so they know their budget and limitations beforehand. This can save a headache down the road.
New vs. Used
As Freightliner is such an old and prodigious maker of trucks, there are a lot of used options available all across Canada. When adding to your fleet, cost may be the primary factor, and many turn to pre-owned vehicles for this reason alone. Remember, though, that older vehicles will have higher ongoing maintenance costs, and it’s best to spec these out when calculating the most affordable option for you. In addition, used trucks will not come with customizations. However, if you can find exactly what you want on the used market, there are some bargains to be had.
Truck Capabilities
The broad range of possible Freightliners means that choosing the right model is an important step in your journey. Their on-highway options are quite different from their heavy-duty or medium-duty vehicles. Make sure you know exactly what environment and what tasks your new truck is needed for. And because Freightliner offers natural gas versions of several of its models, you may need to choose between fuel types as well.
Freightliner Special Features
Freightliner is known as an innovative truck brand, and created the first ever autonomous commercial truck to drive in the U.S. It is their dedication to this sort of cutting-edge research that allows their standard commercial trucks to offer some technologies and features that are unavailable with other brands. This includes:
- Detroit Powertrain technology, which allows engine, transmission and axles to work together to provide optimal efficiency
- Extensive testing during engineering and manufacturer to ensure trucks are physically robust
- Collision mitigation and side object detection technology
- Bumper-mounted radar and windshield cameras
- On-board diagnostic system that minimizes down-time and decreases servicing
Freightliner FAQs
How much does a Freightliner truck cost?
Freightliners are among the cheaper heavy-duty trucks available; a new on-highway model costs around $200,000, although obviously model, customizations and upgrades all affect the exact price. Used vehicles are available from as low as $30,000 – but again, model, age, condition and other factors will all have an impact on the price of any given truck. Luckily, the rise of online marketplaces has made searching for the best deal, new or used, quite simple.
How can I get financing for a Freightliner truck?
Many people might turn to their Freightliner dealer for help in financing their truck purchase. This certainly is an option, although bear in mind there is no guarantee that the lenders your dealer works with will approve you. Alternatively, you can search online for financing, which may give you access to more competitive loan terms. To qualify for any financing, you will need to meet your chosen lender’s eligibility requirements, and complete their application paperwork.
What engines do Freightliner trucks use?
Freightliners come with a variety of engine choices, all from Cummins or Detroit. From Detroit, these are: DD13, DD15, DD16, DD5, or DD8. From Cummins, these are the X12, X15, L9, or L9N.
Where can I get my Freightliner truck serviced?
As Freightliner is such a popular brand, there are dozens of official dealerships across Canada that offer full service and parts for your Freightliner truck. The on-board diagnostic system further assists, as it can connect remotely to your service centre to enable preventative and tailored service.
Other truck dealers and parts businesses may also provide service for your vehicle, though bear in mind that they may not always have Freightliner parts in stock, so sometimes delays can occur.
Why are Freightliner trucks so popular in Canada?
Freightliners are popular in Canada and across North America because of their relative affordability and lower costs to run, in comparison to other truck brands. Newer Freightliners are known for their increased efficiency, and there are natural gas options for the most popular models that further compound ongoing savings.
What are the operational costs for a Freightliner truck?
The operational costs for a Freightliner truck are somewhat lower than with other truck brands, thanks in part to their increased efficiency and lower fuel costs. The range is between $150,000 and $190,000 annually, for those truckers who cover 190,000km or more per year. The average expenses are as follows, shown as a share of per mile operating costs:
Vehicle-based expenses:
- 24% – Fuel Costs
- 15% – Truck/Trailer Lease or Purchase Payments
- 9% – Repair & Maintenance
- 5% – Truck Insurance Premiums
- 2% – Tires
- 2% – Tolls
- 1% – Permits and Licenses
Driver-based expenses:
- 33% – Driver Wages
- 10% – Driver Benefits
Useful Freightliner Resources
1-800-835-9618 
