For the first time in four years, Freightliner has updated its Century Class with a new look that's also intended to provide better performance.

The most obvious changes to the Century Class, introduced as Freightliner's premium highway tractor in 1995, are the newly styled hood, grille and bumper.

Besides altering the truck's front-end appearance, the changes offer better cooling capacity in the 2004 models. The new chrome grille and lower panel increase the frontal opening to 55% of the total surface area. Opening up the center section allows better airflow to accommodate the hotter 2004 engines.

The Century S/T's three-piece bumper has been redesigned, and there's an optional chrome package for the center section. Optional inset road lamps and amber accent lights are also available.

"This is a more retro styling," said Michael von Mayenburg, Freightliner's senior vice president of engineering and technology.

Another change is that the inner fender splash shields are mounted on the hood itself, rather than the chassis. When the hood is tilted open, this moves the fenders out of the way for easy engine access.

Freightliner has also improved the headlamp design on the new Century S/Ts, which stands for Safety/Technology. The 7-inch round sealed beams have been replaced with a new composite headlamp that is supposed to provide better light distribution on the road and increased night visibility.

The sun visor on the sleeper cab configurations has been redesigned to decrease drag and improve fuel economy. It's a one-piece design that weighs several pounds less than the original three-piece design, which is still available as an option.

Along with the new front-end look comes a new interior. Freightliner has unveiled a new version of the Signature Interior, which will be available for Century S/Ts and Columbia trucks. Available in either vinyl or cloth with four color options, the new interior is described as "an upscale fleet" option with plusher upholstery and color-coordinated accents.

The new Century S/T is available with a choice of engines from Mercedes-Benz, Detroit Diesel and Caterpillar, and in seven separate sleeper configurations.

Vital Statistics - Inside the Century Class S/T

BBC: 120 inches
Engine: Choice of Mercedes-Benz, Detroit Diesel Series 60 EGR or Caterpillar up to 550 hp
Transmission: 10-speed Eaton-Fuller AutoShift standard, others available