Selecting a truck in Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) is not just a matter of aesthetics, but a strategic decision that directly affects your income, driving comfort and even stress level during multi-kilometer flights. It’s easy for a beginner to get lost among dozens of modifications from Scania, Volvo, DAF and other brands, especially when each truck has unique characteristics: from fuel consumption up to handling on mountain serpentines. But what really matters is maximum return on investment?

In this guide we will analyze top 5 ETS2 trucks according to key criteria: speed, efficiency, reliability and tuning possibilities. You will find out which track is suitable for long-range with heavy trailers, and which one is optimal for fast flights throughout Europe with light loads. In addition, we will reveal hidden game mechanics that affect the profitability of each truck - for example, how to properly configure the gearbox to save up to 15% of fuel on the route. Ready to choose the perfect “iron horse” for virtual roads?

Criteria for choosing the best truck in ETS2: what to look for first

Before you rush out to buy Scania S just because she is "beautiful", let's figure out what parameters really affect the gameplay:

  • 💰 Cost and payback: Truck price + fuel, repair and insurance costs. For example, DAF XF cheaper Mercedes Actros, but its engines are less efficient over long distances.
  • ⛽ Fuel consumption: The difference between 25 and 30 l/100 km on a 2000 km route is 100 liters of fuel (or ~€300 at in-game prices).
  • 🚛 Load capacity and trailer compatibility: Some trucks pull better Heavy Cargo, others are optimized for Reefer (refrigerators).
  • 🎛️ Handling and comfort: Steering angle, suspension stiffness, visibility - this is critical for mountain roads Alps or narrow streets Italy.
  • 🔧 Tuning options: The presence of sports bumpers, sleepers, aero kits is not only visual, but also affects the aerodynamics.

One of the most common myths among players is "the more powerful the engine, the better". In practice, a 600-horsepower engine Volvo FH16 justified for transportation only Oversize Load (oversized cargo). For standard flights, 450 hp is enough, but with a properly selected gearbox (we'll talk about it below).

⚠️ Attention: ETS2 has a hidden parameter "engine wear", which accelerates when constantly driving at high speeds. If you like to push your shoe to the floor, be prepared to repair the truck more often - this eats up to 20% of your profit.
📊 Which brand of trucks do you prefer?
Scania
Volvo
DAF
Mercedes-Benz
MAN
Renault

Top 5 ETS2 trucks: comparison of characteristics and real profitability

We tested all available models on routes of varying difficulty: from flat pistes in Germany up to serpentines of Switzerland. The results are in the table below (data for configuration with trailer 24 t and cruise control 89 km/h):

Model Average fuel consumption (l/100 km) Max. speed with load (km/h) Cost (basic) Best route
Scania R 450 26.5 92 €185,000 Scandinavia (flat roads)
Volvo FH 500 27.2 90 €198,000 Germany-France (autobahns)
DAF XF 460 25.8 91 €172,000 Italy (mountain serpentines)
Mercedes Actros 4160 28.0 88 €210,000 Eastern Europe (bad roads)
MAN TGX 480 26.9 90 €180,000 Universal

As can be seen from the table, DAF XF leads in efficiency, but loses in speed. A Mercedes Actros, despite the high price, it justifies itself on bad roads thanks to reinforced suspension and better handling on uneven surfaces. But there is a nuance:

Why does the Scania R beat the Volvo FH in the long run?

With identical engines Scania R has 3% lower fuel consumption due to a more aerodynamic cabin. In addition, her sleeping area is 10% more spacious, which reduces driver fatigue on long routes (in the game this affects the “rest” bonus).

If you are playing with a mod Realistic Economy, where prices for fuel and repairs are increased by 2-3 times, then DAF XF becomes absolute leader by payback. But Volvo FH16 with a 750-horsepower engine in this mode it turns into a “money pit” - its appetite (up to 35 l/100 km) eats up all the profit.

Best long-distance truck: Scania R vs Volvo FH - who will win?

For flights of length 1500+ km Three factors are critical: comfort, efficiency and reliability. They're in the lead here Scania R and Volvo FH, but each has its pros and cons.

  • 🛌 Scania R:
    • The most spacious cabin (Highline) with better sound insulation.
    • Less fuel consumption at cruising speed (89 km/h).
    • Softer suspension means less fatigue over long distances.
  • 🚀 Volvo FH:
    • Better aerodynamics at high speeds (optimal for 92+ km/h).
    • More reliable gearbox (fewer breakdowns during aggressive driving).
    • Better compatibility with heavy trailers (e.g. Lowboy).

Our verdict: If you prefer calm driving with an emphasis on savings, take Scania R 450 with cabin Highline and engine DC13 127. If you like to “press on the gas” and carry heavy loads - Volvo FH 500 with box I-Shift.

Select Highline cab|Install engine DC13 127 (450 hp)|Install gearbox GRS905R (12+2)|Add fuel tank 1500 l|Install aerokit to reduce consumption-->

⚠️ Attention: ETS2 has a bug with gearboxes Volvo I-Shift: When manually shifting on inclines, the track may become “stupid” for 1-2 seconds. The solution is to use automatic mode or put a box Volvo AT2612F.

Best Truck for Fast Hauls: Why DAF XF overtakes everyone

If your strategy is maximum number of flights per hour (for example, transportation Urgent Cargo), then DAF XF becomes the best choice. Here's why:

  1. Highest top speed among all trucks (up to 93 km/h with the right tuning).
  2. Lightweight and maneuverable cabin - it is easier to park in narrow places (for example, in Prague or Milan).
  3. Low cost of service — repairs and insurance are 10-15% cheaper compared to Mercedes or MAN.

But there is one secret: to unlock your full potential DAF XF, you need:

  1. Install the engine MX-13 460 (optimal ratio of power and consumption).
  2. Use box AS-Tronic in semi-automatic mode (manual shift + automatic clutch).
  3. Install sports bumper and rear spoiler to improve aerodynamics.

With this configuration DAF XF shows consumption 24.5 l/100 km at a speed of 90 km/h - this is 10% better than Scania R under similar conditions. What if you play with the mod? Realistic Fuel Consumption, the difference reaches 15%!

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To save fuel on your DAF XF, use the transmission's "eco mode" (in the transmission settings). This will limit the RPM to 1500 RPM, but will reduce fuel consumption by 5-7%.

Best truck for heavy loads: Mercedes Actros or Volvo FH16?

For transportation Heavy Cargo (weight 24+ t) or Oversize Load (oversized) need tracks with:

  • 🏋️Power 500+ hp (optimally 600+).
  • 🔄 Gearbox with overdrive (overdrive).
  • 🛠️ Reinforced suspension and frame.

Let's compare the two giants:

Parameter Mercedes Actros 4160 Volvo FH16 750
Max. power 600 hp 750 hp
Fuel consumption (with a load of 26 tons) 32 l/100 km 35 l/100 km
Uphill speed 6% 45 km/h 50 km/h
Maintenance cost High Very high

Volvo FH16 wins in power and uphill speeds, but loses in efficiency and repair price. Mercedes Actros more balanced: its 600 hp. enough for any load, and fuel consumption is 10% lower.

Our advice: if you often carry Oversize Load (for example, in fashion Special Transport), take Volvo FH16 - its power is enough even for 30 ton cargo. For standard heavy trailers (Lowboy, Stepdeck) enough Mercedes Actros 4160.

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For heavy loads, it is critical to set the tire pressure correctly! In the track menu (Truck Manager → Wheels) select value 10.5 bar - this will reduce fuel consumption by 3-5%.

How to tune a truck for maximum profit: saving secrets

Even the best truck can be made even better with tuning. Here top 5 modificationsthat really affect earnings:

  • 🔧 Aerokit: Reduces fuel consumption by 2-4%. Best options:
    • Scania: Streamline Kit
    • Volvo: Aero Package
    • DAF: Super Space Cab Aero
  • ⚙️ Gearbox: For long-range shooting, choose boxes with overdrive (for example, Scania GRS905R). For city flights - direct drive (for example, Volvo AT2612F).
  • 🛏️ Sleeping place: High Roof or Top Sleeper give a bonus to rest (+10% to fatigue recovery).
  • 🎨 Paint and stickers: Does not affect performance, but unique design increases the chances of receiving orders from VIP clients (in fashion VIP Jobs).
  • 🔋 Battery and generator: Install 24V system - this will reduce the risk of battery discharge during long periods of parking with the air conditioning on.

One of the most underrated tuning elements - tires. In ETS2 they affect:

  • Fuel consumption (difference up to 5% between Super Single and Wide Base).
  • Road grip (critical for snowy routes in Scandinavia).
  • Suspension wear (soft tires Comfort reduce the load on the shock absorbers).

The best choice for most routes is Michelin X Multi Energy (universal) or Continental Eco Plus (to save fuel).

Which truck should a beginner choose: budget options with potential

If you are just starting to play, you should not immediately take Volvo FH16 for €250,000. It's better to choose budget truckwhich:

  • 💸 Costs up to €150,000.
  • 🛠️ Cheap to maintain.
  • 📈 Has potential for upgrade.

Top 3 options for beginners:

  1. Renault T 440:
    • Price: €120,000.
    • Pros: Cheapest insurance, easy to manage.
    • Cons: weak engines (maximum 440 hp).
  2. DAF XF 430:
    • Price: €145,000.
    • Pros: economical engine MX-11, good aerodynamics.
    • Cons: cramped cabin.
  • MAN TGX 440:
    • Price: €135,000.
    • Pros: reliable box TipMatic, spacious cabin.
    • Cons: high fuel consumption (28 l/100 km).

    Our advice: start with DAF XF 430. This is the most balanced option that will allow you earn your first €500,000 without unnecessary expenses for repairs. When you save money, sell it and buy Scania R or Volvo FH.

    ⚠️ Attention: Don't buy Iveco Stralis - despite the low price (€110,000), this truck has the highest fuel consumption (up to 30 l/100 km) and frequent breakdowns. This is a money pit for beginners.

    FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about trucks in ETS2

    Which truck is the fastest in ETS2?

    DAF XF with engine MX-13 530 and a box AS-Tronic can accelerate to 105 km/h (without load). But with a 24 t trailer the maximum speed is limited 92-93 km/h due to the physics of the game.

    Is it worth buying Scania S or Scania R better?

    Scania S - this is a “premium” version with an improved cabin, but its characteristics are identical Scania R. The only difference is:

    • A more comfortable sleeping place (+5% to rest).
    • Better sound insulation (less fatigue).
    • Higher price (€20,000 more).

    If you care visual and comfort - take it S. If needed maximum earnings — R.

    How to reduce fuel consumption in ETS2?

    Here are 5 working ways:

    1. Use cruise control at a speed of 85-89 km/h.
    2. Install aerokit and spoilers.
    3. Choose engines with low revs (for example, Scania DC13 107).
    4. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking.
    5. Use eco mode gearboxes (if any).

    These measures will reduce the cost of 10-20%.

    Which truck is best for snowy routes (Scandinavia, Russia)?

    Optimal for winter roads Scania R or Volvo FH from:

    • Tires Winter or All-Terrain.
    • All-wheel drive (6x6 or 8x4).
    • Reinforced suspension (Heavy Duty).

    These tracks have better traction and slip less on inclines.

    Is it possible to make money on cheap trucks (for example, Iveco Stralis)?

    Technically yes, but this ineffective. For example, on Iveco Stralis you will spend 30% more on fuel than on DAF XF. As a result, your net profit will be 2 times lower. It's better to save up for Scania R or Volvo FH.