As you might have known, Peterbilt 389 is an upgrade and replacement of the 379 models. Peterbilt has stopped manufacturing the 379 models in 2007 while the 389 in 2017.
However, due to popular demand, the 389 model was reintroduced in 2020.
If you are interested to know why truckers seem to love the 389 models, read on to learn more.
Here’s a short summary of whether Peterbilt is Discontinuing the 389:
Peterbilt will not discontinue the 389 models anytime soon. The brand has not made any announcement for the cessation of the 389 models. If Peterbilt follows its 20-year tradition for each model, the 389 models will still be available in the market for the next five years.
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Is the Peterbilt 389 a Popular Truck?
The consumer’s demands have made it possible for the 389 models to be manufactured again by Peterbilt. This turn of events alone proves the popularity of the model.
Peterbilt is the only truck available in Peterbilt dealerships that features the brand’s classic design.
Except for the 389, Peterbilt models have outgrown their traditional design and feature modern styles.
According to the manufacturer, the elegance and unique styling are what the model sets apart from its counterparts. This is, perhaps, why the model is popular and loved by most truckers.
How does the Peterbilt 389 Compare to other Peterbilt Models?
Peterbilt 389 highlights the brand’s legacy as it’s stayed its iconic design and unparalleled performance.
It elaborates on Peterbilt’s tradition of manufacturing distinctive styling, value, and quality.
The 389 distinctive features in Pete’s models include classic-style grilled sheets, polished hood fenders, and chrome hood accents.
Most importantly, the 389 iconic exterior features the pride and class emblem or brand on its sleeper cab.
Is Peterbilt 389 Better than the 379?
Peterbilt 389 is undeniably better than 379. After all, the 389 model is an upgrade of the 379. They have a few differences, but these upgrades are significant.
Some of their differences are the following:
- The 389 is equipped with SmartNav consul technology, while the 379 don’t have technology at all.
- The 389 models have improved visibility with aerodynamics features on the headlights, while the 379 is only equipped with essential headlights.
- The 389 has reduced its fuel mileage to 4%. Therefore, it has better mileage than the 379.
- The 389 is more lightweight. It has reduced its overall weight to 150 pounds.
- The 389 has the same quality as the 379 models, but it features a stellar upgrade in technology, interior, exterior, and safety features.
These two models may not have many distinctions, but it’s essential to know them for better decision-making.
In general, the 389 model is an excellent upgrade as it has the newest technology you can have from a truck in this generation of vehicles.
When was the Peterbilt 389 Released?
Peterbilt 389 was released in 2006. Although it is the successor of the 379, it has immediately introduced the 389 upgraded models to the market.
When the 379 was discontinued in 2007, the brand launched its upgraded model, the 389, at the Mid-America Trucking Show in 2006.
So far, the 389 models have received a good impression in the trucking industry, and many truckers feel more comfortable with the new upgrade.
How many have Peterbilt 389 Models been Produced?
Peterbilt did not disclose the exact number of 389 models it has manufactured over the years.
However, the 379, which is the model succeeded by the 389 models, was so successful that it lasted for 20 years.
According to Peterbilt, over 230,000 of 379 models have been manufactured and sold since its launching and discontinuation.
If we estimate and consider that the 389 is as successful as the 379, Peterbilt has probably manufactured more or less 200,000 of 389 models.
It will indeed supersede the number of 379 models produced by the brand. After all, Peterbilt still manufactures the 389 models, and it is one of the best-seller trucks.
Is Peterbilt Going to Stop making 389?
There is news circulating online that Peterbilt will stop making the 389. However, the brand has yet to say anything about this.
At the moment, no official statement has been released by Peterbilt about the truth of the matter. Hence, this information is mere hearsay.
Unless the brand confirms it, it is safe to assume that Peterbilt will not stop making the 389 yet.
When will the Peterbilt 389 be Discontinued?
Peterbilt 389 will most likely continue its production for a few years.
If you’re an avid fan of Peterbilt, you would have noticed that each model lasts for 20 years before a new model replaces the older one.
As such, Peterbilt will stay in the market for five years or until 2026.
Why do Truckers Love the Peterbilt 389?
The most apparent reason why truckers love Peterbilt 389 is it’s a classic design. It embodies the legacy and heritage of the company.
As claimed by the brand itself, the 389 model features the latest technology in a classic style.
The all-aluminum cab, bulkhead-style doors, and aircraft-grade fasteners are very legendary.
If you have been a fan of Pete, you would have known that a vehicle is a Peterbilt truck even looking from afar.
The 389 model is the only classic Peterbilt truck that you can buy as brand new nowadays. It is modern, lightweight, and aerodynamic.
It is the most advanced truck of all trucks of Peterbilt, having the brand’s original and classic exterior.
What is the Peterbilt 389 Good for?
Peterbilt 389 is suitable for a lot of things. While the brand tags it as an on-highway truck, Peterbilt 389 is also ideal for vocational applications because it’s lightweight and durable.
For this reason, it can accommodate more payloads than what the usual Pete models do. You can also maximize its performance for better profitability.
All in all, Peterbilt 389 is an excellent commercial truck. It works at its core. It can be a dump truck, construction truck, or can deliver large and heavy equipment.
Looks of the 389
As repeatedly mentioned, Peterbilt has incorporated its classic design in the 389 models. If you are not observant enough, you might think it’s the older Peterbilt models.
The 389 has very few changes in terms of design compared to the trucks manufactured by the brand since the late 1980s to early 2000s.
However, the 389 model also has some notable features that are not available in Peterbilt classic trucks.
All-aluminum cab
The 389 model is an all-aluminum cab which makes the truck durable and lightweight. The grille surrounding the truck is a single unit, and it looks better than the old riveted pieces in older models.
Headlights
While older models use basic headlights, the 389 headlights are more advanced. The light bulbs are improved to 60%, and directional lights are LEDs.
Mirrors
The mirrors of the 389 model were also redesigned. It looks like the Kenworth trucks, which is an excellent idea because it has enhanced its visibility.
Hood
The 389 hoods are much better than the 379 models. It is equipped with an anti-blown device which also makes the hood very lightweight.
Under the impressive red hood lies Cummins engine. Now you can use PACCAR engines, too. Using the latest technology, the 389 model is more potent than it was introduced in 2006.
Reliability and Maintainability
Peterbilt is known to be dependable and low-maintenance. Hence, many truckers, especially commercial operators, love them.
But if you want to maximize the vehicle’s performance, the PACCAR MX-13 engine is what you need. It has exceptional reliability and performance.
In addition, the truck is equipped with SmartNav technology.
It also has a 7-inch touch screen for real-time truck monitoring, voice recognition, a Garmin navigation system, and many more features to ensure safety and comfort.
Power and Fuel economy
Peterbilt claims that the 389 model features the lowest cost of operation, thanks to the added aerodynamics.
The improvement in aerodynamic makes the truck fuel-efficient.
If you want to double its fuel efficiency, you can utilize the Cummins X15 engine. The engine is known to be the industry’s most fuel-efficient engine.
Safety and Comfort
If you’re looking for a classic Peterbilt with the latest technology, you can never go wrong with the 389 models.
Inside, the truck features a very luxurious and spacious interior rim. The driving seats are wide enough for oversized drivers. All the seats are well-upholstered.
The sleeper cab can be upgraded to different sizes, such as 44-inch, 58-inch, 72-inch, and 78-inch in length. As such, truck drivers who work long distances can rest well in the sleeping area.
Cost
Despite being available since 2006, the Peterbilt 389 is still expensive. Its price is comparable to Peterbilt’s newer models and electric trucks.
A brand new Peterbilt 389 model costs less than $200,000, while a used one will cost approximately $130,000 for 2015 to 2020 manufacturing dates.
Expect more affordable prices with older manufacturing dates.
The high price is reasonable, though.
While the truck has been around us since 2006, its features have also evolved. It is also now equipped with the same features available in newer Peterbilt models.
For instance, if the 2006 389 model uses Cummins engine, the 2021 model uses the PACCAR engines.
What will be the Successor of the Peterbilt 389?
No one knew what would be the successor of the Peterbilt 389. The brand did not make any announcements so far.
After all, the replacement for the Peterbilt 389 will not come anytime soon.
If the company will stick to its 20-year tradition as what it had done to its previous models, the 389 would still have five years in the Peterbilt dealerships.
However, should Peterbilt decide to replace the 389, it must be robust, versatile, and dependable.
The successor might also stay in the classic style to honor the brand’s legacy.
If the company stops producing its legendary truck design, the 389 would be the last model to showcase its classic style.
