Scania P-series

Scania P series in brief

The P cab is the lowest-mounted of all Scania cabs: you step in via just one or two steps, and the driver sits closer to the ground. This is crucial when working in the city, where you might get in and out dozens of times a day, as well as on construction sites and municipal services.

As a result, the P series is most commonly found as a distribution truck with a box body or refrigerated unit, a tipper, concrete mixer, refuse truck, loader crane, or fire brigade base. The cab can be a short day cab with a small sleeper area or a double cab for crew transport. The P cab is less suitable for long-haul trips—those are what the G, R, or S cabs are for.

Previous and new generation—what's the difference

The previous generation of the P series was produced from the mid-2000s until roughly 2016–2017. There are plenty of these used trucks on the market: they are simpler, cheaper, and easier to maintain, but they often have been working for many years in the city or on construction sites, so their condition can vary greatly.

The new-generation P cab debuted around 2017. It's roomier, with a larger front windscreen and better side visibility, which is particularly important in the city due to pedestrians and cyclists. The new generation comes with more driver assistance systems, and it also offers diesel, hybrid, and electric P-series trucks, although there aren't many used ones on the market yet.

Engines, transmissions, and axle configurations

The most common engines in distribution trucks are 9-litre five-cylinder diesels (around 230–360 hp), with some lighter models featuring a 7-litre six-cylinder engine. For heavy-duty tasks like concrete mixers and dump trucks, a 13-litre engine is often chosen—for example, the P 410 or P 450. City services also use gas (CNG or LNG) engines.

Older trucks are typically Euro 3–Euro 5, while newer ones from 2013–2014 are Euro 6 with AdBlue and a particulate filter. If a Euro 6 truck has been used for short urban trips, the filter can clog up faster, so it's important to check how the truck has been operated.

Transmissions come in manual or automated Opticruise, with some city trucks featuring traditional automatics. Common axle configurations include 4x2 and 6x2 for distribution (6x2 often with a liftable or steerable rear axle), 6x4 and 8x4 for dump trucks and concrete mixers, and less frequently, all-wheel drive.

What to check when buying a used Scania P

City and construction trucks often have low mileage but high engine hours, as they work long shifts in one place or power equipment. Ask for a diagnostic report with engine hours and compare it with the service history and tachograph data. Check the tachograph calibration date and type if the truck will be driven abroad.

Test the gearbox and clutch by moving with a load and uphill — frequent city driving wears out the clutch faster. If a retarder is fitted, check if it operates smoothly and has no leaks. Inspect the brakes, suspension, and steering mechanism — concrete mixers and dump trucks face heavy loads.

On the crane, inspect the frame for cracks, welding, and severe corrosion, especially under the cab and near the hydraulic mounting. Check the superstructure — lifting boom, cooling unit, dump truck hydraulics, or manipulator, as their repairs can be costly. In Euro 6 trucks, check the AdBlue system, NOx sensors, and ensure no AdBlue emulator is installed.

Cab and versions

P-series trucks are often custom-ordered for specific jobs, so the superstructure and equipment vary greatly; we list the most commonly found versions.

Comparing Scania P versions by purpose

The Scania P is ideal for city and construction work where easy access and a higher payload are crucial. For long-haul journeys, opt for the taller G or R cab.

Frequently asked questions