Selection of the first tractor in Euro Truck Simulator 2 It directly determines the pace of development of your virtual company, as a weak machine will not allow you to take expensive contracts over long distances. Many beginners mistakenly believe that any truck will cope with any task, but in reality, the game mechanics severely restrict access to premium orders depending on the characteristics of the engine and the type of cabin. To quickly recoup the purchase and start earning on expensive cargo, you need to immediately focus on models with a power reserve and the potential for tuning, ignoring cheap options that will become a “narrow neck” after a few hours of gameplay.
There is a misconception that the best truck is the one that costs the least, however, saving on the start often results in a loss of time and money for frequent repairs and low delivery speeds. In the game. ETS2 The key parameters are not only the price, but also fuel consumption, tank capacity and availability of spare parts in different countries of Europe. Properly selected equipment allows you to feel comfortable both on the narrow streets of old cities and on the expressways of Germany, where high stability is required on straight sections.
When analyzing the available car fleet, it is worthwhile to immediately discard the idea of random purchase and focus on the “big three” manufacturers that dominate the player ratings. Scania, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz They offer the most balanced features, although each brand has its own unique features that affect the gameplay. Understanding these nuances will help to avoid a situation where the tractor purchased for all the money is unsuitable for specific missions or requires a disproportionately large investment in modernization.
Criteria for Choosing the Perfect Tractor
When searching for the best car for start-up and further development, it is important to pay attention to the set of technical characteristics, not only to the maximum speed. The engine is the heart of any truck, and it is its power and torque that determine the ability to overcome steep climbs with a full trailer without losing inertia. A weak motor will force you to constantly switch gears and slow down, which will negatively affect delivery time and, as a result, income.
The second critical parameter is the volume of the fuel tank, which is often ignored early on in the journey but becomes a decisive factor in the later stages. The large range allows routes to be routed through regions with high fuel prices or through areas where refueling is rare, such as northern Scandinavia or eastern Europe. In addition, the capacity of the tank affects the total weight of the equipped machine, which should also be taken into account when calculating the load capacity.
⚠️ Warning: Don’t chase the maximum engine power early on if you don’t already have driving skills and an understanding of the physics of heavy truck inertia. Excess power without the appropriate gearbox and experience can lead to frequent crashes and transmission damage.
The third aspect is the ergonomics of the cabin and visibility, which directly affect the fatigue of the driver on long trips. V Euro Truck Simulator 2 Visual contact with the road and ease of interface control play an important role, especially when parking in crowded conditions or driving in dense traffic. Some models offer wider mirrors and a comfortable fit, which subjectively but significantly facilitates the game.
- 🚛 Engine power: Choose a motor with torque from 2000 Nm for comfortable driving with heavy trailers.
- ⛽ Tank volume: The optimum range is at least 1000 km for frequent stops.
- 🛠️ Tuning availability: Make sure that the model is available for transmission and aerodynamic improvements.
Scania S and R Series: King of the Roads
Many experienced drivers consider trucks to be Scania They are absolute leaders in the game, and there are good reasons for this, due to their outstanding performance and reliability. The S and R series are equipped with V8 engines that provide phenomenal traction even on the steepest alpine passes. This makes them an ideal choice for those who prefer to carry heavy loads such as building materials or machinery where every horsepower is important.
One of the main features of Scania is the modular design of the cabin, which allows you to flexibly adjust the interior space to your needs. In the game, this is expressed in the huge number of available tuning options, from additional headlights and exhaust systems to unique interiors with leather seats and wooden panels. This customization allows you to make the cabin not just a workplace, but a real home on wheels, which increases moral satisfaction from the game process.
Despite the high initial cost, the investment in Scania quickly pays off due to low fuel consumption and high average route speeds. The engines of this brand are famous for their durability, which reduces the frequency of visits to service centers and reduces repair costs. For players looking to build a major transportation empire, Scania often becomes a major fleet of vehicles.
Recommended configuration for Scania:Engine: 770S V8
Box: 12-speed Opticruise
Chassis: 6x2 with lift axle
However, it is worth remembering that the dimensions of some Scania modifications can be difficult for beginners when maneuvering in narrow urban areas. The high cabin and long hood (in some versions) require getting used to and accurately calculating the turn trajectory. However, once mastered, this truck becomes an extension of the driver’s hands, offering an unmatched level of comfort.
Volvo FH16: Reliability and comfort
Swedish competitor Scania, the company VolvoThe FH16 has long established itself as a benchmark for real-world and in-game safety and comfort. The main feature of this series is the I-Shift system, which provides incredibly smooth and fast gear shifting, which is especially noticeable when driving in an urban cycle or on serpentine. For players who appreciate smoothness and no jerks, Volvo is the best choice.
The Volvo FH16 cabin is known for its excellent noise insulation and ergonomics, which allows the driver to get less tired on long flights. The virtual interior is made with high detail, and the dashboard provides all the necessary information in a readable form. This is not just a cosmetic advantage, as a good view and clear instruments help to respond faster to changes in the road situation.
⚠️ Note: When buying a Volvo, pay attention to the engine configuration, as the basic versions may be inferior in power to the top-end modifications of Scania. Competitive games require upgrades to the maximum engine capacity.
In terms of efficiency, Volvo also performs well, especially when using cruise control and eco-driving modes. The design of the car contributes to good aerodynamics, which reduces air resistance and, accordingly, fuel consumption at high speeds. This makes the Volvo FH16 an excellent option for those who specialize in long-distance delivery of goods on motorways.
- 🛡️ Safety: Advanced stabilization and braking systems reduce the risk of accidents.
- 🛋️ Interior: Some of the most comfortable sleeping areas and work areas in the game.
- ⚙️ Transmission: The I-Shift box is considered one of the most reliable and smooth.
The secret to saving Volvo
Use Eco-Roll mode on the slopes. The system itself will select the optimal gear, allowing the car to coast down with minimal fuel consumption. This is especially effective in hilly areas.
Mercedes-Benz Actros: German classics
It is impossible to talk about the best trucks in the world. ETS2without mentioning Mercedes-Benz ActrosIt is a symbol of German quality and engineering. This model stands out for its futuristic design and advanced technologies, introduced even before they became the industry standard. Actros is often chosen by players who value the balance between cost, performance and availability of parts in any corner of the game card.
One of the key features of Actros is the MirrorCam system, which replaced traditional side mirrors with cameras, which significantly improves visibility and reduces aerodynamic drag. In the game, this is implemented through unique on-screen widgets, which, however, take some time to get used to. Visually, the truck looks very modern and aggressive, which attracts many style lovers.
Mercedes engines are characterized by high traction at low revs, which allows you to effectively start from a place and feel confident in a dense flow. Actros fuel consumption is average, but due to its high reliability and low maintenance costs, owning this truck is cheaper than keeping some premium competitors. This makes it a great option for both beginners and experienced players.
| Model | Power (L.S.) | Torque (Nm) | Price (base) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scania R 770 | 770 | 3700 | Tall. |
| Volvo FH16 | 750 | 3550 | Tall. |
| Mercedes Actros | 625 | 3000 | Medium |
| DAF XG+ | 670 | 3400 | Medium |
In addition, Mercedes-Benz offers a wide range of wheel formulas, including 4x2 and 6x2 variants, which allows you to adapt the truck to specific tasks. For light cargo and urban delivery, you can choose a more maneuverable version, and for heavy trawls - an option with an additional lifting axis. This flexibility makes Actros a versatile soldier in any company’s fleet.
DAF and MAN: Alternatives
Although the Big Three dominate the rankings, brands such as DAF and MANThey offer great alternatives for certain styles of play. DAF is known for its compact cabins and exceptional maneuverability, making it the king of the narrow streets of southern Europe and old cities. If you plan to do regional transportation or delivery to the centers of megacities, DAF may be more convenient than giants.
MAN is renowned for its robustness and ability to operate in harsh environments. German engineering here aims to create endurance vehicles that forgive driver mistakes and require less attention to the technical condition. It is a good choice for players who do not want to constantly monitor engine temperature or tire pressure, preferring to just get the job done.
☑️ Checklist before buying a truck
Both manufacturers are actively developing their model ranges, introducing new technologies and improving aerodynamics. In the latest updates to the game, they have new cockpit and engines that allow them to compete with the market leaders on an equal footing. Especially worth noting is the DAF XG+, which is now no less than the top Scania and Volvo in terms of comfort and equipment.
The pricing policy of these brands is often more democratic, which allows you to buy a fresher and more powerful model for the same money that you would have to pay for the basic configuration of the premium brand. For beginner entrepreneurs, this can be a key factor in allowing you to quickly reach self-sufficiency and start expanding your business.
Tuning and modernization: unlocking the potential
Buying a truck is just the beginning of the journey, as the real magic of the car is the real thing. Euro Truck Simulator 2 It starts with tuning. Properly selected improvements can turn the average tractor into a racing car or an economical trucker. First of all, you should pay attention to the engine and transmission, since they determine the dynamic characteristics of the machine.
Aerodynamic body kits such as roof deflectors and side skirts not only improve the appearance of the truck, but also really reduce fuel consumption at high speeds. In the game, this is expressed in the percentage of savings that accumulate during long trips. It is also worth considering installing more efficient exhaust systems that add power and change the sound of the engine, making the trip more atmospheric.
⚠️ Note: Do not install all available improvements immediately if your budget is limited. Priority is given to technical upgrades (engine, gearbox), and visual tuning (paint, light) leave for later, when the company begins to bring a stable income.
The interior of the truck is also amenable to modernization: you can add GPS-navigators, radio, cruise control and other useful gadgets. These elements not only delight the eye, but also make it easier to manage by providing quick access to important features. In addition, the customization of the cabin allows you to personalize the workplace, making long hours on the road more enjoyable.
- 🎨 Visual style: painting in unique colors and applying logos.
- 💡 Lighting: Installation of additional headlights and neon for night trips.
- ⚙️ Technique: Chip tuning of the engine and installation of sports filters.
The best truck is the one you can afford to pump completely. A cheap base without improvements often loses to the middle class with full tuning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the fastest truck in Euro Truck Simulator 2?
The fastest is considered to be the fastest. Scania R 770 with a V8 engine, which develops maximum power and allows you to achieve high speeds on descents. However, the real speed depends not only on the engine, but also on the gearbox settings and the weight of the trailer.
Should I buy a truck on credit?
Taking out a loan only makes sense if you are confident in your driving skills and are willing to work actively to pay off the debt. High interest rates can seriously slow down the company’s development, so it’s better to save up for the first truck or choose a cheaper model.
Which truck is best for a beginner?
For beginner players, it is great. Volvo FH or Mercedes Actros medium power. They forgive mistakes, have good visibility and are comfortable enough to learn the basics of parking and oversized transport management.
Can I change the appearance of the truck after buying?
Yes, in any service center you can change the color of the cabin, add tinting, install new headlights, bumpers and exhaust systems. The interior of the cabin is also subject to change, including replacement of seats and panels.
Does the brand of the truck affect the cost of insurance?
In the base game, the brand of the truck does not directly affect the cost of insurance, however, more expensive and powerful models can require more repair costs in the event of an accident. Insurance payments depend on the level of damage and the cost of spare parts.
Expert advice: Before buying, be sure to test the truck in the "Fast Game" mode to understand its dimensions and behavior on the road. This will save you from disappointment after buying.