The 4x2 CF85.430 is rated at 428hp (315kW) at 1,900rpm.
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Fitted with a F230 space cab, it represents the top of the range. It develops 1,950Nm of torque between 1,000-1,500rpm with more than enough power to handle the triaxle Van Heal semi-trailer at 40 tonnes GCW. The ride is smooth and quiet, and gear changes are effortless thanks to the 1F 165181 gearbox.
The Daf XE 12.6-litre engine is strong on hills, and the Space Cab makes it comparable to the MAN TO-A and the Mercedes Actros. Options for the Space Cab model include tinted glass, an external sun visor and electrically adjustable mirrors.
Our final driving impression came with the CF85.340. This model could well sell the most, as it sits right in the middle of the highest-selling 310-37411p tractive unit sector and is the lowest-powered of the 0F85 range.
A 4x2 CF85 340hp (250kW) rated at 1,900rpm with maximum torque of 1,600rpm rated at 1,000-1,500rpm has a F230 sleeper cab hauling 40 tonnes through a triaxle semi-trailer--a Hobur tank trailer in this case.
Acceleration on the flat is sturdy, but not impressive, and driving up a long steady hill means the usual loss of power to it coped well, but a move up would have been too much. The engine brake was required the most here, and it held well in the blue band in 71 at around the 50mph mark on a sharp descent. The water tanker caused a bit of cab nod on inclines and descents, but the four-point air suspension coped well.
The vehicle made steady progress though, and of all the models Daf makes available to the press it's the one we await most eagerly, as it's likely to be one of the best sellers.