The world of Euro Truck Simulator 2 is huge and diverse, offering players not just to transport cargo, but to build their own logistics empire. For many virtual truckers, the choice of the first or the next truck becomes one of the most difficult and important in the game. The right decision depends on driving comfort, speed of delivery and, of course, financial profit.
In this article, we will discuss in detail which tractor can be called the best in ETS 2, taking into account different gaming styles and financial capabilities. We will analyze the technical specifications, fuel consumption, maintainability and ergonomics of the cabin to help you make an informed choice.
There is no single right answer to the question of which car is perfect. However, based on the experience of thousands of hours of game time and community statistics, it is possible to distinguish clear leaders in different categories. Let’s dive into the world of diesel giants.
Criteria for Choosing the Perfect Tractor
Before you go to specific models, you need to decide what you value the most in the game. For someone. maximum speed Delivery is a priority, even if it requires high fuel consumption. Other players prefer economy and low maintenance costs to save up for a new garage faster.
An important factor is also the controllability and physics of the car on the road. Some tractors, such as Volvo FHThey are known for their resilience, while others may be more prone to skids when fully loaded. In addition, it is worth considering the availability of service centers throughout the map, as a breakdown in the wilderness can cost you money and time.
⚠️ Warning: Do not chase the most expensive truck with maximum power. At the initial stages of your career, it is better to choose a cheaper model with good economy in order to pay back your investments faster.
It is also worth paying attention to the possibility of installing additional equipment. A place to be fuel tank of increased volume Or a second sleeping bag can significantly affect the range of autonomous driving and comfort of the virtual driver. All these nuances form the final rating of the best cars.
Scania S and R Series: Kings of the Road
The undisputed leader in many ratings is the Swedish company Scania. Models of the series S and R (especially the new 2016 generations and the updated versions) combine power, reliability and stunning design. This is a choice for those who want to feel like the king of the track.
One of the key features of these trucks is their high-torqueIt allows you to easily overcome steep climbs even with a heavy load in the trailer. V8 engines available in top trim levels, make the same growling sound that fans of the simulator love so much.
- 🚛 Advantages: Excellent aerodynamics, powerful V8 engine, spacious Highline and Topline cabin.
- 💰 Disadvantages: High initial cost, expensive repairs in case of an accident.
- ⛽ Expenditure: Medium, but compensated by the volume of the tank.
Inside the cabin, ergonomics reign, tested over the years. The dashboard is instrumented, and the view through the windshield minimizes blind spots. For players who like to spend a lot of time in the game, Scania It offers perhaps the most comfortable interface to machine interaction.
The secret of the Scania V8
In the game engine, the sound of the V8 engine on Scania is processed separately, creating a lower frequency and saturated hum compared to inline sixes of other manufacturers.
Volvo FH: Safety and comfort benchmark
Scania’s main competitor is Swedish. Volvo FH. This tractor is often called the most balanced in the game. He is not always the fastest in acceleration, but his stability on the road is amazing. If you are a beginner and are afraid to overturn the load, Volvo He'll be your best friend.
The I-Shift system deserves special attention, which is performed by Volvo and works very smoothly and predictably. Transmissions are switched on time, without jerks, which is especially noticeable when driving in urban traffic or on serpentine. The cabin has excellent noise reduction.
In recent updates, the game has received improved Volvo models, which are visually almost not inferior to real prototypes. A wide range of wheelbases allows you to customize the tractor for any needs, whether it is short flights with semi-trailers or long-distance transportation with dissolutions.
| Model | Power (L.S.) | Torque (Nm) | Price (base) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volvo FH Classic | 460 | 2300 | $$ |
| Volvo FH (2012) | 540 | 2600 | $$$ |
| Volvo FH (2021) | 550+ | 2800+ | $$$$ |
It is worth noting that Volvo Often, players who are involved in the transportation of dangerous goods are chosen. Stability of exchange rate stability is implemented at the highest level, which reduces the risk of emergency situations during sharp maneuvers.
DAF XF: Selecting Professionals for Economy
If your first priority is fuel-saving and a quick return on investment, the Dutch DAF XF The 105 and XF Euro 6 are not equal. These machines are famous for their economical PACCAR engines, which consume less diesel while maintaining decent dynamics.
The DAF cabin is known for its vast space. The feeling of space here is maximum among all competitors. This makes the model ideal for those who like to work out the interior in detail, installing a variety of accessories, curtains and plants.
- 📉 Pros: The best fuel consumption, a huge selection of tuning, low cost of spare parts.
- 📉 Cons: Less aggressive design, average acceleration dynamics in the runoff.
- 🔧 Maintenance: Cheap and affordable in any city in Europe.
Many experienced players start their journey on the DAF XF 105It can be bought and it pays off quickly. Even after buying more powerful cars, many return to DAF for long and lucrative contracts, where every liter of fuel counts.
☑️ Check before buying a tractor
Mercedes-Benz Actros: German reliability
German car industry is represented in the game by the legendary Mercedes-Benz Actros. This is a machine for those who appreciate solidity and recognizable style. The giant star on the grille immediately attracts the attention of other participants in the movement.
Unlike the softer Scandinavian competitors, Mercedes behaves more rigidly, giving excellent feedback on the steering wheel. This allows you to turn at higher speeds, but requires the driver to be more focused and accurate.
The OM 471 and OM 473 engines have excellent traction at low revs. This is especially useful when starting from a full load position. Besides, Mercedes Often pleases players with unique tuning options that are not available for other brands.
⚠️ Warning: When installing powerful engines on Mercedes, monitor the temperature. In some versions of the game, the cooling system may not cope with overheating during long driving in the mountains.
For fans of the brand, this tractor will be a real gift. The combination of classic design and modern technology makes Actros a welcome guest in any garage. It is very good for both regional and transcontinental flights.
Comparative Characteristics Table
To systematize the information received and help you finally decide on the choice, we have prepared a summary table. Here are the averaged data for top complete sets of the main manufacturers.
| Brand | Best model. | Max. speed | Economics | Comfort. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scania | S 730 V8 | Tall. | Medium | Great. |
| Volvo | FH16 750 | Medium | Tall. | Excellent. |
| DAF | XF 1060 | Medium | Maximum | Good. |
| Mercedes | Actros MP4 | Tall. | Medium | Good. |
| MAN | TGX D38 | Tall. | Medium | Medium. |
As you can see from the table, DAF wins in the category of economyWhich is critical for the start. Scania and Mercedes take speed, while Volvo offers the best balance of comfort and handling. MAN is often underrated, although its new TGX models are very dynamic.
There is no perfect tractor: for earnings, choose DAF, for speed – Scania or MAN, for driving pleasure – Volvo or Mercedes.
The impact of tuning on productivity
Do not forget that the “best” tractor is often the result of competent revision. Standard settings are not suitable for everyone. Installation wind-boat It can reduce fuel consumption by several percent, which at a distance of 10,000 km will give tangible savings.
It is also important to choose the right gearbox. For mountainous regions such as the Alps or Scandinavia, it is better to choose a gearbox with a large number of gears (12 or 16) to ensure that the engine runs in the optimal range. For lowland highways, a 12-speed box is enough.
- 🔧 Chassis: The choice of wheel formula (4x2, 6x2, 6x4) affects grip and load capacity.
- 🎨 Visual: Painting and lighting do not affect the physics, but improve mood and visibility on the road.
- ⚙️ Engine: Chip tuning can add power, but will increase wear and flow.
Experiment with settings in the car dealership. Sometimes replacing standard exhaust pipes with more direct ones (as part of game tuning) changes the sound and subjective sense of power. Don’t be afraid to spend money on improvements, they’re worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which truck is best for a beginner in ETS 2?
For a beginner, the ideal choice will be DAF XF 105 or Volvo FH Classic. These models are inexpensive to buy and maintain, have predictable handling and good visibility. They will allow you to learn the basics of driving and parking without the risk of crashing an expensive truck.
Does the brand of the truck affect the cost of delivery?
No, in the base game, the make and model of the tractor do not affect the value of the contract. The price depends only on the weight of the cargo, distance, urgency and type of trailer. However, a cost-effective tractor will allow you to spend less on fuel, increasing your net profit.
Should you buy trucks from DLC (Daf, Renault, Volvo)?
Absolutely. DLC trucks often have more detailed cabins, better sound, and more modern engine models than the base ones. If you plan to play long, buying these add-ons will greatly expand your fleet and enjoyment of the game.
Can I change the engine after buying?
Yes, you can upgrade the engine, gearbox, chassis and other nodes in any service center or car dealership. This allows you to gradually improve the old truck without buying a new one, although a full replacement of the tractor is often more profitable.
Keep it in front of the dealership if you are planning to buy an expensive car. In rare cases, the game may give up a transaction error and saving your virtual money will save you money.
To sum up, finding the best tractor in ETS 2 is an exciting process that each player has its own way. Someone for years drives one pet, and someone constantly changes the fleet, trying new products. We hope our rankings have helped you narrow down your search.
Remember that the main purpose of the game is to enjoy the process. Choose a car that you like externally and feel, get behind the wheel and go on a journey along the endless roads of Europe. Have a good trip and full trailers!