The ISUZU CXZ is likely a familiar name to many. As the predecessor to the GIGA series, it was originally designated as the 810 series. Introduced in 1983, the 810 series remained in production for 12 years until the first-generation GIGA debuted at the end of 1994. The 810 series was officially retired in 1995.
Early imported models of the 810 series were equipped with round headlights. However, in 1986, ISUZU updated the design, switching to quad rectangular headlights. In terms of appearance, the CXZ model of the 810 series shared a family resemblance with ISUZU’s light-duty trucks, featuring square headlights and a black decorative strip running across the front fascia, with the “ISUZU” logo prominently centered on the strip. The Morita logo is clear.
Morita is a globally renowned manufacturer of fire trucks. Interestingly, the Morita water tank fire truck retained the rare factory-original double-row cab configuration of the CXZ, whereas the standard cargo truck variants only came with a single-row cab with a sleeper.
A notable feature of this batch of Morita trucks is that both the bumpers and wheel rims are painted in the same fire-engine red as the body. The rims are accented with a white outline, a signature detail that distinguishes these vehicles.
Like their American counterparts, Japanese fire trucks often feature a midship-mounted pump system. This contrasts with European fire trucks, which typically place the pump controls at the rear. The Morita fire truck in question has a large cylindrical water tank at the rear, giving it an appearance similar to a water tanker. However, the fire-red livery, roof-mounted emergency lights, and water cannon mounted behind the cab all clearly identify it as a fire truck.
The wheel hubs follow ISUZU’s classic heavy-duty design: A 6-lug, 10-bolt configuration.
Although both inline-six and V10 engine options were available, all units in this batch of ISUZU CXZ chassis were equipped with the 6RA1 inline-6 engine, delivering a maximum output of 231 horsepower and peak torque of 790 N·m.
A unique emblem at the rear of the water tank further highlights the truck’s specialized role.
In addition to the Morita fire truck with the prominent rear water tank, there also exists a more conventional-style fire engine variant based on the ISUZU CXZ chassis.
