International HX Series vs Western Star 49X
Two severe-duty rigs compared spec for spec: the HX Series (2016–present, Up to 605 hp) against the 49X (2020–present, Up to 605 hp). Same data we keep on every truck in the encyclopedia — and Mike on hand if the answer depends on your routes and loads.
HX Series
Premium severe-service flagship.
49X
The flagship severe-duty brute.
| Spec | International HX Series | Western Star 49X |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | International Motors, LLC (Traton SE / VW Group) | Daimler Truck North America |
| Class | Class 8 | Class 8 |
| Body type | Severe-Duty | Severe-Duty |
| Years | 2016–present | 2020–present |
| Rating | Up to 92,000 lb GVWR | Up to 160,000 lb GCWR |
| Power | Up to 605 hp | Up to 605 hp |
| Engines | International A26, Cummins X15 | Detroit DD13, Detroit DD15, Detroit DD16 |
| Applications | Heavy haul, Dump, Crane, Oilfield | Heavy haul, Mining, Logging, Oilfield |
About the International HX Series
International's severe-service conventional, the HX debuted in 2016 and was fully redesigned in November 2020 as the first new product under the Navistar 4.0 strategy and Project Compass. The set-back-axle HX620 can be ordered with the Cummins X15 making up to 605 hp and 2,050 lb-ft, rides on a 12.5-inch by 0.5-inch single-rail frame rated at 3.5 million RBM, and uses International's programmable Diamond Logic electrical system for body integration.
About the Western Star 49X
Launched in 2020 as the first of Western Star's clean-sheet X-Series, the 49X introduced the industry's first high-strength single-channel frame rail rated at 3.8 million RBM with no insert, and was the first Western Star ever offered with the Detroit Assurance suite of active safety systems. It was built to replace the long-running 4900 vocational flagship while coming out roughly 350 pounds lighter.
Which one fits your operation?
Specs only get you so far — routes, loads and the shop that maintains it matter. Mike, the free AI truck consultant, talks it through with you. No account, 24/7.
