The atmosphere was unmistakably optimistic when International executives unveiled the new medium-duty CV Series on Nov. 7. There was a clear sense that the company has moved past its most difficult period and is now entering a new phase—one defined by renewed confidence in product strategy and technology. Nothing illustrates that shift more clearly than the CV Series itself, a truck developed in partnership with General Motors that represents a clear departure from International’s previous medium-duty offerings.
Viewed head-on, the CV Series immediately makes a strong visual impression. The large, chrome-heavy grille evokes classic 1950s automotive styling, delivering a look that is both bold and purposeful. It’s eye-catching without being overdone and projects the kind of toughness and confidence that resonates with vocational truck buyers.
From the side, the family resemblance is unmistakable. The CV Series shares clear design DNA with GM’s Sierra and Silverado models—no surprise, considering the truck uses GM’s medium-duty cab paired with an Isuzu-designed International 6.6-liter diesel engine.
According to Steve Gilligan, vice president of vocational product marketing at International, the CV Series reflects the growing importance of global OEM partnerships. “No one can do it all alone anymore,” Gilligan said. “The cost of R&D is simply too high. By combining our proven frame, chassis, and suspension systems with GM’s outstanding cab, interior, and diesel engine—matched to our standard Allison automatic transmission—we’re able to deliver a truck that works hard all day and still brings the driver home in comfort.”
Inside the cab, the GM influence is immediately apparent. Drivers familiar with Silverado or Sierra interiors will feel instantly at home. The instrument cluster features crisp graphics and bright backlighting, with gauges laid out for quick, intuitive scanning. My test vehicle was well equipped, offering power seats, windows, and mirrors, along with a tilt steering wheel that integrates infotainment controls.
One feature that stands out in an International vocational truck is the large, center-dash infotainment display. While it may seem unusual at first, Gilligan emphasized that modern buyers now expect these systems regardless of vehicle class—and International had no intention of leaving that advantage on the table.
Once on the move, the CV Series delivers performance to match its confident styling. With 350 horsepower on tap, the 6.6L diesel responds quickly and decisively. Throttle response is sharp, and the Allison 1750 RDS automatic shifts smoothly and effortlessly. Equally impressive is how quiet the drivetrain is—gone is the harsh clatter once typical of midrange diesel engines. Instead, acceleration is accompanied by a controlled, throaty growl that never becomes intrusive.
Ride and handling are another strong point. International engineers, working alongside Meritor, tuned the suspension to balance comfort with control. Even during aggressive steering inputs at moderate speeds, the truck remained composed, with minimal body roll. In fact, a Class 5 CV model displays handling characteristics closer to a light-duty pickup than a traditional medium-duty work truck.
The launch event took place in downtown Chicago during morning rush hour, which limited opportunities for extended highway driving. Even so, brief testing on a closed course near Soldier Field was enough to demonstrate International’s intent to reclaim ground in the medium-duty segment following its financial restructuring.
The CV Series clearly signals the direction International is heading. By refocusing on its core engineering strengths and leveraging strategic global partnerships, the company has produced a truck that blends durability, comfort, and modern technology. In a market where work trucks are expected to deliver both toughness and refinement, the CV Series stands as a confident step forward—rooted in more than a century of experience, yet firmly aimed at the future.