Isuzu D-Max facelift – Thailand gets new 150 hp 1.9 Ddi

The facelifted Isuzu D-Max has been launched in Thailand with prices starting from 490,000 baht (RM58,993) leading up to 1.004 million baht (RM125,265). The mid-life revision sees several visual updates to the pick-up truck, including the introduction of a new 1.9 litre Ddi Blue Power turbodiesel to its engine line-up. Previously, we revealed leaked scans of the pick-up’s brochure but now, we bring you official images.

At the front, the D-Max receives a more aggressive grille design, which is flanked by redesigned headlights with LED “tubes” and integrated LED daytime running lights. The front fascia also receives two new bumper designs depending on the variant chosen – V-Cross, Hi-Lander, and Spark.

Moving on to the rear where the changes are minor, the D-Max gets a restyled tailgate, which seems to adopt a slightly more angular design at its centre. Rounding up the list of other exterior changes are new stickers, 18-inch wheels, and a fin-style antenna.

The more significant update however, lies beneath the hood, with the new RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre Ddi Blue Power turbodiesel engine displacing the outgoing 4JK1-TCX 2.5 litre mill. Isuzu says the new engine is 16 hp more powerful and 30 Nm torquier than the outgoing engine, while being 20% lighter in weight

The four-cylinder turbodiesel produces 150 hp at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque between 1,800 and 2,600 rpm. It is also claimed to be 19% more fuel efficient while CO2 emission is rated at 161 g/km. Joining the 1.9 litre mill is the familiar 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, which produces 177 hp and 380 Nm of torque, and remains on the top of the model range.

The Ford Ranger, one of the D-Max’s rivals, is offered with two Duratorq engine options, a 2.2 and 3.2 litre unit that produces 157 hp/385 Nm and 197 hp/470 Nm respectively. Both engines can be paired to either a six-speed auto or manual gearbox.

Transmission options for the engines include a new six-speed automatic, which replaces the outgoing five-speed automatic, as well as a new six-speed manual gearbox (with Genius Sport Shift). However, it has yet to be revealed which engine and transmission pairings will be assigned to the relevant variants.

As for the interior, there are a few new features that include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a TFT display within the instrument cluster, not to be confused with full LCD meters. Beyond that, the D-Max’s cabin and layout remains virtually unchanged from before, but with different upholstery depending on trim level.

Safety-wise, the D-Max gets dual frontal airbags and anti-lock brakes, with traction Control and electronic stability control (ESC) reserved for higher variants. Customers in Thailand can also specify their new D-Max with several optional accessories that include side steps, roof rails, bed liner, cargo net, headlamp covers, a “tailgate ornament set”, “premium” floor mats, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.