The wait has been a long one, but for many, it’s worth it. Here’s the Malaysian-market all-new Isuzu D-Max, replacing the current long-standing model that’s been in service (through various incarnations) since 2003. The second-generation D-Max is priced between RM69,799 to RM100,689 across five variants.

No questions about it, this pick-up is new from the ground up. Built on the i-GRIP (Isuzu Gravity Response Intelligent Platform) base, it’s significantly larger than before in every measurement – 5,295 mm long (+260 mm), 1,860 mm wide (+60 mm), 1,795 mm high (+60 mm) with a wheelbase of 3,095 mm (+45 mm). Ground clearance too has been increased by 10 mm to 235 mm.

The larger dimensions translate to a much more spacious cabin and bigger cargo area. It now has a more SUV-like interior with a bigger focus on passenger comfort, especially those sitting in the back. Isuzu claims that the angled rear seats backs are the best in the class. New additions include isofix mounting points, folding rear seats plus various cupholders and storage compartments.

If the interior looks familiar to you, that’s because the new D-Max shares it with the Chevrolet Colorado. The platform and interior were co-developed with parent company GM, but the running gear, dynamics and exterior styling are completely bespoke to each brand.

It’s a good looking truck isn’t it? There’s a big and bold grille up front, flanked by sharp looking projector headlamps. The bulging wheelarches are now part of the sheetmetal, no longer plastic add-ons. Aerodynamic efficiency is the best in the class, with a 5% improvement in drag coefficient (Cd) than before.

All but the base model get a new 2.5 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 136 hp at 3,600 rpm and 320 Nm of torque between 1,800-2,800 rpm, making use of a Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbocharger to outpower the old 3.0 litre motor. Two five-speed transmissions are offered either in manual or automatic flavours; the latter with a manual override function.

The D-Max features an advanced crash protection structure on the passive safety front. Dual airbags, three-point seat belts for all occupants plus ABS, BA, EBD, Traction Control (TCS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems are also on offer, but only on the two top models.

At the bottom of the range sits the RM69,799 2.5L 4×2 MT low rider variant, using an older 79 hp/176 Nm turbodiesel engine. It gets base-spec reflector-type headlamps, grey grille, 15-inch steel wheels, single airbag and black wing mirrors and rear bumper but keeps the Load Sensing Proportional Valve (LSPV) and limited slip differential (LSD).

The next two models in the line-up, the 2.5L 4×2 MT Hi-Ride (RM79,899) and 2.5L 4×4 MT-L (RM85,499) use the newer, more powerful engine and are equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, projector headlamps and chrome finish on the grille, wing mirrors and rear bumper as standard. Airbag count stays at one though.

Moving up to the top spec D-Max 2.5L 4×4 in manual (RM94,619) and automatic (RM100,689) forms get you the e-LUMAX multi-info display, leather-wrapped steering with audio and handsfree controls, 2-DIN multimedia player with Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker audio system (with ‘Exciter’ surround speakers embedded into the roof lining).

Exterior additions such as fog lamps, LED rear lights, 17-inch wheels, roof rails, bed liner and side steps are also thrown in as standard on the two most expensive models. As these variants are more likely to be used as family recreational vehicles rather than for commercial or heavy duty use, they go without the LSPV and LSD.

A roll bar is a RM1,200 option on all variants bar the base model. Five colours are available – Phoenix Red Mica, Phantom Grey Mica, Stallion Black Metallic, Titanium Silver Metallic and Magnum White Solid, with the first two offered only on 4×4 models. Isuzu offers a three year or 100,000 km warranty.

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It’s been a long time coming, but come it will. Tomorrow, in fact. We’re of course talking about the long-overdue arrival of the new Isuzu D-Max on Malaysian shores. But before we get the full details, here’s another short peek at it through reader Ibrahim Ismail’s camera.

We’ve already seen plenty of the second-generation D-Max, first in the JPJ carpark back in March, then on public roads a month later. Just two weeks ago ads of the new pick-up sprouted on our sister auto classifieds site oto.my. This final round of spyshots gives us the best view of the local car yet.

The vehicle above looks to be the top-spec variant with its large wheels, chromed wing mirrors, fog lamps, roof rails and sports bar, though what’s underneath the hood is still unknown. It’s either a 3.0 litre turbodiesel engine with 177 hp, 380 Nm or a 2.5 litre VGS lump with 136 hp and 320 Nm. There’s also a base iTEQ 2.5 in 116 hp/280 Nm tune but that’s more likely to feature in lower variants.

That’s enough for now we think. Stay tuned for our comprehensive launch report with full details and complete live gallery tomorrow night.

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If you’re a regular reader of paultan.org, you know the drill when it comes to imminent launches of new cars in Malaysia – car gets spotted (usually more than once) or teased, ads start to spring up on our sister classifieds domain oto.my offering indicative pricing and specs, before the whole affair finally comes to rest in the launch itself – at times not without a brochure leak or two somewhere in between.

In the case of the second-gen Isuzu D-Max, it’s pretty much been a waiting game – the pick-up truck made its world debut in Thailand back in September 2011. It was to be a full 18 months later before we spotted one at JPJ, and shortly after we saw another that looked very much like it on the road.

But you know what they say – better late than never. We now have three separate listings from the same seller for the 4×2 manual, 4×4 manual and 4×4 auto (click on the links to view the ads in full), stating indicative prices of RM70k, 85k and 100k respectively. All are powered by a 136 hp/320 Nm 2.5 litre VGS turbodiesel and both manual and auto ‘boxes offer five speeds.

The second-gen D-Max sits on a new platform called i-GRIP, or Isuzu Gravity Responsive Intelligent Platform. Isuzu says its body is 42% stiffer than before, resulting in better ride and handling. More information, as well as what our northern neighbours get, can be found here. Not long now!

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We have these pics of a mystery truck, thanks to reader Ahmad Afifi who saw the black pick-up roaming in Taman Subang Mas in Shah Alam. After some cross checking, we think it’s the new Isuzu D-Max, which was recently spotted in JPJ’s carpark.

The new D-Max is not so new over in neighbouring Thailand, where it has been around since September 2011. Sitting on a canggih sounding Isuzu Gravity Responsive Intelligent Platform (i-GRIP) platform, the truck is available with a choice of three turbodiesel engines in the Land of Smiles.

A 177 hp and 380 Nm 3.0 litre heads the list there, above the iTEQ 2.5 litre in two output tunes, 116 hp/280 Nm and a VGS version with 136 hp and 320 Nm. Transmission choices are a five-speed manual and five-speed auto. Also sold in the Kingdom is a kitted-up range called the D-Max X-Series as seen at the Thai Motor Expo last year.

Click here to view last month’s set of undisguised spyshots from the JPJ carpark. It’s about time, Isuzu!

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Ah, it’s spyshots galore this week, and the next vehicle to be uncovered by the lens is the new Isuzu D-Max, which played peekaboo in the Suzuki Swift Sport spyshots from yesterday. Again, master spy Anol Alias comes up trumps with a set of photos of the second-generation pickup, which is currently being evaluated by JPJ. Not just one vehicle, mind you, but an entire slew by the looks of it.

The D-Max made its debut in Thailand in September 2011, so it has definitely a while for the full model change version – which sits on the company’s new Isuzu Gravity Responsive Intelligent Platform (i-GRIP) platform – to get here. Still, better late than never!

A choice of three turbodiesel engines are available for the Thai market, with a 177 hp and 380 Nm 3.0 litre heading the list. Meanwhile, the iTEQ 2.5 litre comes in two output tunes, the 116 hp and 280 Nm as seen on the existing D-Max and a VGS version with 136 hp and 320 Nm. Transmission choices are a five-speed manual and five-speed auto.

Traction control and a vehicle stability system are to be found on the new D-Max, available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations in Thailand. Also sold in the Kingdom is a kitted-up form called the D-Max X-Series as seen at the Thai Motor Expo last year.

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More flashy pick-up trucks from Thailand Motor Expo, but unlike the Mazda BT-50 Thrilling we showed you earlier, this Isuzu D-Max X-Series is for sale. Once again, changes are mostly cosmetic, in and out, although they’ve thrown in Isuzu Genius Entry, which is a keyless entry and start system.

The X-Series is available in low riding Speed and high riding Hi-Lander forms – the latter comes with a choice of king cab or double cab while the Speed is two-door only. It is powered by Isuzu’s 2.5 litre VGS turbo engine with 136 hp and 320 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,800 rpm. King cab models are M/T only, but the four-door Hi-Lander can be paired to a five-speed automatic ‘box with Rev Tronic manual override.

Compared to the rest of the D-Max range, X-Series trucks get a dark grey grille with the big Isuzu logo in red. The wheels are in a matching grey tone, and there are body stripes that run the spine of the bonnet and tailgate. Hi-Lander models get a “shark-fin” antenna and sports bar. Notice the reverse camera that’s neatly integrated into the tailgate handle.

Inside, the X is marked by the colour red, which can be found on the seats, steering wheel logo and stitching. One can only choose from black or white, but the Hi-Lander gets pearl white paint.

This new Isuzu D-Max was launched in Thailand back in September 2011, which makes one wonder when will Isuzu Malaysia bring it in.

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Isuzu is set to take on the Dakar Rally next January with a D-Max prepared by the Isuzu Motorsports International Off-Road Race Team. The Dakar-ready pickup, based on a production D-Max 4×4 double-cab, has been enhanced to increase performance and to withstand the rigours of the 8,000 km run from Lima, Peru to Santiago, Chile.

Participating in the ‘Car class – T2 (Cross Country Series Production vehicles),’ the D-Max Dakar will be piloted by Australian pair Bruce Garland (driver) and Harry Suzuki (co-driver).

The vehicle’s 3.0 litre commonrail turbodiesel mill, based on a standard Isuzu engine, has 242 hp and 589 Nm of torque, mated to a four-wheel drive system and a sequential five-speed Hollinger gearbox and Xtreme rally clutch. It’s good enough to give this one a 0-100 km/h time of just 7.0 seconds (on dirt) and a top speed of 190 km/h.

The chassis features custom-built, full-length eight millimetre aluminium skid plates, while the steel cab body is fitted with an integrated roll-cage and carbon-fibre panels that shield the pick-up’s key components.

Isuzu has added DBA Kangaroo Paw ventilated disc brakes with cross-drilled discs and Harrop aluminium racing callipers, and the D-Max Dakar rides on 16 x 7-inch ROH Trojan alloy wheels, shod with Toyo Open Country M/T-R tyres.

The Dakar isn’t a stranger to the Australian-based team. In 2009, it enjoyed success in the race with a previous-generation D-Max, finishing as the first diesel-powered pickup in the field.

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Some regional news from the Philippines, where things aren’t all that rosy and there are lots of familiar issues, by the sound of it.

According to reports, rumours abound that there is the possibility that Isuzu Philippines might shut down its 13-hectare Laguna Technopark manufacturing facility in Binan, Laguna if business conditions don’t improve, going down the same path taken by Ford Philippines with its Santa Rosa plant.

The company, which began in 1995, has responded by issuing a statement on the matter. It says that there are no plans in shutting down its plant operations in Laguna, which is capable of producing 15,000 units annually, but if the current situation persists, there’s a possibility that the brand might scale down its assembly operations and look for another ASEAN country, where it is relatively cheaper to operate.

The statement adds that the Philippine automotive industry is facing multitudes of challenges in sustaining manufacturing, primarily in terms of production costs, and that the cost of operating its assembly plant in the Philippines is significantly higher compared with other ASEAN countries.

It is hoping that the government will extend assistance in the form of granting incentives, fiscal and non-fiscal, in order for locally-assembled vehicles to be more competitive compared with imported CBU units, in the process allow existing players to maintain assembly firms and not leave the country.

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Isuzu Motors has denied a report by Nikkei that the company plans to exit a diesel engine manufacturing joint venture with GM’s Opel subsidiary and cut European workforce by 10%.

The report also said that the Japanese company intended to halt development of a next-generation engine for Opel. Neither Isuzu nor GM commented on this issue.

Isuzu, which has a 40% stake in the joint venture with GM, has been producing diesel engines for Opel’s Astra, Corsa and Meriva in Poland for 13 years.

Recently GM revealed that its Europe unit suffered a $361 million operating loss in the second quarter from a $102 million profit a year earlier. That loss was actually smaller than anticipated.

At one point, GM owned as much as 49% of Isuzu before selling its stake. Isuzu said in May that it was not planning to form an equity alliance with GM.

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Isuzu Malaysia unveiled another D-Max version last night, a limited edition model called 2012 HI-DEF. It’s based on the 3.0L 4×4 variant of the pickup and is available in both automatic and manual transmission forms. In keeping with the LE theme of previous HI-DEF models, which were 200 unit runs, there’s just about the same for the current special edition, except the number has been increased by 10 to make it 210.

There are no mechanical changes from the current 3.0 litre D-Max models; essentially, it’s a spruce-up job consisting of luxurious fittings and trim, helping to dress up the truck into a polished and refined machine, as Isuzu puts it.

The truck comes in a special Platinum Brown Mica shade, and there’s Mercury Silver Metallic if the former isn’t your cuppa. The rims feature a titanium finish, while the radiator and under grilles feature a lattice design finished in chrome. There’s also a new bumper guard and chrome body stripe work the visuals a bit.

Aside from that, there are HI-DEF decals on the sides of the vehicle and on the tailgate, while the door visors have their own HI-DEF logos. Oh, and the front door sills wear a blue-lit Izusu logo, so you’ll always know which truck you’re in.

Kit includes a newly-designed D-Box, which is a unique lid cover allowing cargo to be locked away or removed altogether to haul larger items. It wears a rugged side profile roll bar, offering the truck a more muscular profile. You can of course opt for an anodised aluminium roll bar in place of the D-Box.

As for the interior, it gets dressed up with brown Italian leather-wrapped seats that have HI-DEF logos stitched into them, and the carpet mats are also exclusive to the limited edition model. Also strapped on is an integrated entertainment and navigation command centre, which handles just about anything you can think of in terms of media playback – the system also features Bluetooth hands-free connection as well as a reverse camera.

The Isuzu D-Max HI-DEF Limited Edition is priced from RM96,498 (RM97,680 in Sabah, and RM97,911 in Sarawak), on-the-road, without insurance.

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Click to enlarge.

In the UK at least, the new Isuzu D-Max will be available with four specification levels. Also, for the first time for Isuzu in the UK, the extended cab body configuration that features rear-opening side-access panels will join the usual single and double cab variants.

The entry-level D-Max is priced from £14,999 for the single cab 4×2 version where the air-conditioning, daytime running lights, electric windows, and side and curtain airbags.

The ‘Eiger’ double-cab comes in at a price of £18.499. This variant comes added with projector headlamps, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, 16” alloys and body-coloured bumpers. The ‘Yukon’ double cab (£18,999) adds to the list with leather steering wheel with cruise control, six-speaker sound system, chrome detailing and 17” alloys.

The top spec ‘Utah’ offers leather upholstery, heated front seats and auto climate control. It also gets roof bars and rear parking sensors. This variant is priced at £21,499.

Click to enlarge.

The D-Max is powered by a 2.5 litre twin-turbo common rail diesel engine that produces 163 PS and 400Nm at 1,400 rpm. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. Its new shift-on-the-fly system lets the driver go from 2WD to 4WD at speeds up to 60 mph (or 97 km/h).

The D-Max will go on sale in the UK in June 2012. Yes, it is the same one that was launched in Thailand last year, which are not the ones that we currently have. No news of when the new D-Max will be arriving in our shores as yet.

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Isuzu has unveiled its all-new D-Max pickup in Thailand – the full model change version made its debut yesterday, ahead of the similarly-underpinned Chevrolet Colorado, which is expected to be introduced next week.

Not many details about the vehicle abound, but according to the Bangkok Post, the basic shape for the vehicle – which sits on Isuzu’s new i-Grip platform – in its extra and double-cab versions are pretty much the same, and that the new D-Max rolls in with significantly more heft in terms of overall dimensions compared to the outgoing one, even though no figures were available for it at press time.

The company says that the new D-Max’s body is 42% stiffer than the old one, and will help bring about improved handling and ride. In the double-cab, the larger dimensions of the vehicle bring about more legroom space for rear occupants, who also get more comfy seats at the back.

In terms of engines, three turbodiesel options abound – a 177 hp and 380 Nm 3.0 litre heads the list, followed by a 2.5 litre mill in two output tunes, the first being the familiar 116 hp and 280 Nm as seen on the current vehicle, and the other the VGS version offering 136 hp and 320 Nm. As for transmissions, there’s the usual five-speed manual, but the auto tranny is now a five-speed unit, bringing it in line with current expectation.

Among the features to be found on the new ‘un are traction control and a vehicle stability system, and there’s even an eight-speaker audio system, replete with surround sound. Sales of the vehicle, which will be available in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, are expected to begin in early October in Thailand.

In related news, Isuzu also announced that it will be constructing a new plant in Thailand to bring up its production capacity to meet the increasing demand for pickup trucks and their derivatives. The new facility – consisting of new painting facilities, 2,000t servo press facilities and assembly/inspection lines – will be built within the Isuzu Motors Thailand Gateway plant.

The new factory, to be built at an estimated cost of 18 billion yen, is slated to begin operation by autumn 2012, and when it is completed, Isuzu Motors Thailand’s pickup truck production capacities in both its Samrong and Gateway plants will be increased to 400,000 units yearly.

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Isuzu Malaysia last night launched the 2011 D-Max pickup, which features more in the way of bling. With an emphasis on style, the improvements to the vehicle are pretty much based on appearance.

Up front, the new bumper design incorporates a bold new bumper guard. Also new to the exterior dress up job are chromed front fog lamp bezels and new polished finish sports wheels.

There’s also a redesigned side step – the new design aids in giving the D-Max an accented body line while providing easier ingress and exit from the vehicle. Completing things outside is a new roll bar, which is finished in a light-alloy texture.

Inside, the D-Max gets a whole new dimension, with the use of black trim in place of the previous grey base. This new colour scheme extends to the dashboard, door panels, pillars and headlining. Contrast is provided by chrome accents on the air-conditioning vents, speaker bezels and gearshift.

Mechanically, the 2011 D-Max remains familiar – continuing on under the bonnet are the 2.5 litre and 3.0 litre Super Commonrail engines as well as the 2.5 litre direct-injection mill. Both Super Commonrail-engined models now come with a distinctive platinum-coloured engine cover.

Two new exterior colour choices join the shade lineup – a bolder new white and a more radical metallic black colour add on to the current five body colours available. Pricing starts from RM74,273 for the 2.5LS Direct Injection Diesel Turbo 4×2 MT right up to RM99,296 for the range-topping 3.0L Ddi i-TEQ Super Commonrail 4×4 AT, on-the-road with insurance.

Gallery after the jump.

[zenphotopress number=999 album=2475]

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Isuzu Malaysia has opened its latest 3S centre, in Seremban, to support the growing demand for its vehicles in the country. The new Ultra Gallant outlet in Rahang Baru is an integrated sales, service, spare parts facility..

The outlet sits strategically on Jalan Tampin, within easy access of numerous business operators in Seremban. It offers Isuzu owners and potential customers with a complete one-stop Isuzu facility including new vehicle sales, spare parts and service under one roof.

Isuzu Malaysia’s CEO Takashi Hata said that the new outlet was a reflection of the healthy growth enjoyed by Isuzu, especially in high-growth areas such as Seremban.

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According to reports, Volkswagen is considering taking a stake in Isuzu Motors or purchasing the company outright, though it looks like a decision won’t be made anytime soon.

Seemingly, one of VW’s board members, Jochem Heizmann, has visited Isuzu’s production sites and held talks with the Japanese company, which is Japan’s largest manufacturer of medium to heavy trucks and of which Toyota has a 5.9% stake in.

Apparently, VW also discussed the possibility of MAN acquiring a holding in Isuzu, which would put the latter into the Veedub fold by proxy – VW holds a close to 30% stake in the German truckmaker. Both MAN and Isuzu declined to comment on the reports.

VW is of course on a quest to attain the No 1 automaker spot in the world, and is looking to acquire brands to aid its march to the top – Porsche is already set to become VW’s 10th brand, and the company is looking at Alfa Romeo as a possible addition to the stable.

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Isuzu Malaysia has launched the D-MAX 2.5 Super Commonrail fitted with a 4JK1-TC 2.5 litre engine with the Direct-Injection Electronic Commonrail system. This new model, available in the double-cab form only will be sold alongside the current 2.5 litre which is already on sale. It comes with a non-commonrail direct injection system.

This engine produces 79 PS at 3,900 RPM and 176Nm of torque at 1,800 RPM. The new engine on the other hand makes 116 PS at 3,600 RPM and 280Nm of torque between 1,800 and 2200 RPM. This basically means that the power difference is 37 PS and 104Nm, quite significant actually.

Furthermore, the D-MAX 2.5 Super Commonrail is available with a 4×4 configuration as the less potent variant maintains its 4×2 layout. The new variant continues to use the 5-speed manual transmission featured in the non-commonrail model. There are two trim levels available, including the base Type-B and the Premium.

The latter comes additionally with projector headlights, fog lamps, indicators integrated into the wing mirrors, dual airbags, as well as ABS with EBD. Also in the list is a 2-DIN audio unit with MP3 and WMA compatibility, Isuzu’s e-Lumax instrument panel with a multi-info display, aero-type side steps and a leather-wrapped gear knob. Both trim levels also benefit from a limited-slip differential and an anti-theft alarm system with key-coded immobilizer.

The 2.5 Super Commonrail will be available at all Isuzu dealerships nationwide beginning October 1st. Price details will also be available on the same date but expect the range topping Premium model to be priced at about RM89,000. Isuzu also announced the Smart Saver campaign where customers who purchase the double-cab D-MAX will be entitled to a free Garmin GPS unit and a cash rebate. This promotion is valid till November 30th.

UPDATE: The D-MAX 2.5 Super Commonrail Type-B is priced at RM82,155.40 OTR with insurance (for solid paint finish) while the Premium spec goes for RM88,411.40 OTR with insurance (for solid paint finish).

Continue reading to view an image gallery.

[zenphotopress number=999 album=1545]

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Political strife within the Thai government hasn’t slowed down vehicle sales in the Kingdom. In April, General Motors reported a 62% jump in sales to 1,879 vehicles compared to 1,162 units in the same month last year. With this rise in demand, GM is toying with the idea of increasing output at its Rayong factory to 76,000 vehicles per annum and to invest US$467 million to upgrade facilities and build a new diesel engine plant.

The gains are not just for GM, as even Toyota, who recently suspended production at one of its plants, increased deliveries by 43% to 92,000 units. Isuzu, another big pick-up truck player, has reported a 44% jump to 46,071 units sold. These figures are year-to-date, as of end April. According to the Automotive Industry Club, general vehicle output has increased by 129% from a year earlier to 150,119 vehicles.

Ray Young, GM’s vice president of international operations, is concerned about the current political crisis but reiterated his company’s confidence in our northern neighbour. “We are monitoring the situation in Thailand, but we remain optimistic. Our business and expansion plans will continue in Thailand without delays. The nation will remain the leading automotive market in the ASEAN region,” he said.

Source

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For the first time ever, Euro NCAP has tested pick-up trucks in the light of the vehicles becoming more and more popular for family usage, and it reveals to us some shocking facts. Three trucks were crashed – the Nissan Navara (second generation Frontier – ours is the first gen), the Isuzu D-MAX and the Mitsubishi L200 (known as the Triton in Malaysia). The following are the results:

Please read the following full crash test reports for full details:
Isuzu D-MAX, Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara

The Nissan Navara scored the worst in adult occupant protection – not even one proper star but only a struck-through star. According to the report, the chassis rail collapsed and the accelerator pedal moved as much as 20cm into the footwell – that would definitely cause really serious injury to your legs. The airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners also activated too late into the crash, which EuroNCAP says poses “a high risk of life threatening injury”.

Nissan has developed new airbag software for the Nissan Navara and all new Nissan Navaras now have the updated software. All existing Nissan Navaras on the road will also receive a free airbag software update at their service centers.

The Mitsubishi L200/Triton scored 4 stars for adult occupant protection, and if you view the full crash report, you will see that the driver’s body and leg protection ranged from weak to marginal, but at least the head received good protection.

Very shocking – please do read the full crash test reports linked above. It’s a pity EuroNCAP did not test the Toyota Hilux. The Toyota Hilux is one of the most popular pick-up trucks used as a family car here in Malaysia, plus a full-bodied 7-seater version of it is sold as the Fortuner.

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Isuzu has decided to leave the US market, and will officially stop selling new vehicles in the country on the 31st of January 2009, a year from now. The decision to leave the American market was fueled by the inability to produce replacement models for its Isuzu Ascender and Isuzu i-series, the only two trucks it sells in the US market.

The Isuzu Ascender is essentially a reskinned Chevrolet Trailblazer, and the Isuzu i-series (shown above) is based on the GM small-pickup platform. Isuzu says GM may discontinue these two vehicles, thus leaving Isuzu with nothing to base their next generation US models on. Of course, the other reason could be that Isuzu sales in the US had slid from 103,937 in 1999 down to only 7,098 units last year.

“It has always been our intention to remain in the U.S. market. However, we were unable to secure any commercially viable replacements for these vehicles. Although Isuzu will cease supplying passenger vehicles in North America, it will continue to stand behind its customers and dealers here for years to come. Specifically, Isuzu will continue to honor all product warranties and roadside-assistance programs and will maintain its owner relations call center. Isuzu will be offering all current U.S. dealers the opportunity to continue on as service dealerships for Isuzu,” said Terry Maloney, CEO.

Source

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Isuzu Malaysia has revealed the latest facelift of it’s Isuzu D-MAX double cab pick-up truck, which has a few improvements in terms of the 3.0 litre engine which now has more power and 19% more fuel efficiency than the pre-facelift version.

Read more details after the jump.

For the Isuzu D-MAX 3.0LS Ddi iTEQ Super Commonrail that uses a 3.0 litre turbodiesel engine, the 4JJ1-TC 2,999cc intercooler turbo DOHC 16 valve i-TEQ Super commonrail engine. Fitted in the manual transmission model, it now makes 280Nm of torque peaking just above idle at 1,200rpm and stays steady all the way to 3,400rpm. Peak horsepower is 136 PS at 3,400rpm.

For the 4-speed automatic transmission, the engine is tuned somewhat differently, probably to match the behaviour and transmission losses of a slush box. It makes a higher amount of torque – 294Nm, but this torque peaks relatively later at 1,400rpm. But I’m sure the 280Nm at 1,200rpm is there too, so you don’t really lose anything. This 294Nm stretches up to 3,000rpm where it dips to the manual’s torque levels. This looks like some kind of overboost between 1,400rpm and 3,000rpm. Horsepower is the same as the manual version.

The 3.0 litre models’ i-TEQ Super commonrail engine is not exactly the most powerful turbodiesel available on sale in Malaysian pick-up trucks today, but Isuzu is confident it is the best as how good an engine is is not always related to how much power it produces. Many other factors such as fuel economy and reliability also come into play, especially for those who need a hardcore workhorse that never fails them. However, I can’t help but feel it would be nice if Isuzu had introduced the 4JJ1-TCX 3.0 litre engine with variable turbine geometry instead as it makes a higher 163 PS and 360Nm.

The engine block uses a melt-in liner using a process called High Frequency Induction Hardening that melts the cylinder block liners into the block. This “double-padded” built-in protection keeps the cylinder walls in pristine condition for a longer time.

The pistons used are made from a high performance alloy and has thermal flow cooling channels designed into them to ensure they won’t expand under extreme heat and come in contact with the walls of the engine. The camshafts are chain and gear-driven for a maintenance-free operation and the cams themselves drive roller valve rockers for quieter and smoother operation. The engine is also 1.5 decibels quieter than the previous engine at idle, and the truck is 1.3 decibels quieter at 100km/h.

Features that the 3.0 litre model has over the 2.5 litre model is the 4X4 transmission of course, as the 2.5 is a 4X2. Other premium features in the 3.0 include a key-coded immobiliser while the 2.5 only has a normal immobiliser, a 6-speaker system instead of a 4 speaker system, an integrated 2-DIN AM/FM/MP3/WMA player instead of a 1-DIN Pioneer AM/FM MP3 player, driver and passenger SRS airbags, ABS with EBD equipped with G-sensor, an LSD differential, turn signals on the wing mirrors, and finally a projector headlamp system instead of the 2.5′s multi-reflector headlamp lense.

And of course, one thing that you will notice immediately when you get into the truck is the 3.0 litre model has a self-illuminating meter panel that Isuzu calls e-LUMAX that works much like Toyota’s Optitron, while the 2.5 litre model has a traditional backlit instrument cluster. But before you actually get into the truck, this is where you’ll discover the 3.0 litre model has keyless entry, although this is something I only read on the fact sheet supplied at the launch and have not tried out myself so I’m not sure how it works.

Steering is rack and pinion, and the front suspension uses independant double wishbones with torsion bar springs and stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension uses semi-ellipcal leaf springs. The truck has a short front overhang – claimed the shortest in the industry – to improve departure and approach angles. For offroading, it can handle a side slip angle of 48 degrees, a 34.6 degree front approach angle and a 23.3 degree departure angle. Maximum uphill or downhill inclination is 47 degrees. Ground clearance is 225mm.

The brakes have been upgraded with larger front disc brake calipers – now sized 45.5mm instead of the previous 42.8mm, and these are twin piston calipers. The dual circuit brake servos have also been upgraded to a 9 inch size.

For both manual and automatic transmission models, shifting from 4X2 mode to 4X4 mode is simply via a button on the dashboard, and 2H to 4H can be shifted on the go at speeds under 100km/h.

The pretty basic-trimmed Isuzu D-MAX 2.5LS 4X2 is only available with a manual transmission and goes for RM71,475.30 for individual private registration inclusive of road tax and insurance as well as metallic paint. The solid paint version goes for RM71,175.30. There is no automatic available for the 2.5 litre model.

The premium Isuzu D-MAX 3.0LS Ddi iTEQ Super Commonrail manual transmission goes for RM89,776.30 for individual private registration inclusive of road tax and insurance, while the auto costs more at RM96,758.30. The solid paint versions cost RM89,476.30 and RM96,458.30 respectively.

The 2007 Isuzu D-MAX facelift is available in Mercury Silver, Eclipse Blue, Gamma Gray, Starry Black Mica, and Angelic White, of which the first three colours are new options for the 2007 model.

More images after the jump.

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Increasing demand for diesel-burning Toyota cars in the European market has prompted isuzu to build a new plant in Japan to increase supply to keep up with demand. The new US$110.5 million plant in Hokkaido is set to be completed by 2012, and will make up to 200,000 units of a new 1.6 litre turbodiesel engine a year.

Japanese newspaper Nikkei reports that this new 1.6 litre turbodiesel engine will be jointly developed by Toyota and diesel-experts Isuzu, and will be used in C-segment cars like the Toyota Corolla for the European market.

Source

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Even though first introduced ten years ago back in 1997, the Isuzu VehiCROSS still looks space today. The Isuzu VehiCROSS was never intended to be a mass production model, produced only as a halo car. In concept form, it was showcased with both 4-door and a roadster body, but only the 2-door version made it’s way into production. Underneath it lay mostly mechanicals from the Isuzu Trooper, and engine options were also the same 3.2 litre and 3.5 litre V6 petrol engines that make over 200 horsepower.

Despite it’s looks, it had real offroad capabilities, including a low ratio transfer case. It’s 4-wheel-drive system was also advanced for it’s time, using a Torque On Demand system from BorgWarner, using 12 independent sensors to detect wheel spin and redirecting power to the wheels with the most traction.

Now, why am I blogging about this? Well, there’s a 1999 model Isuzu VehiCROSS on sale on Ebay Malaysia, and the bid is standing at about MYR 108,000.00 right now. There are only 4309 units in the whole world.

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The D-MAX comes with a 3.0-litre direct-injection intercooler turbodiesel engine which produces 294 Nm of torque at 2000 rpm for the automatic version and 280 Nm of torque for the manual version. The engine makes 130 ps of power at 3800 rpm. Slightly less powerful than the Nissan Frontier which currently is the most powerful pick-up in it’s class, even though the Frontier’s engine is a 2.5 litre.

The car comes in both automatic and manual 4×4 and automatic only 4×2 transmissions. The availability of an automatic 4×2 would come in handy for those who won’t take their D-MAX out of the urban jungle.

Switching from 2H to 4H to 4L in the D-MAX is done through buttons on the dashboard instead of a stick shift like pickups normally have. Changing from 2H to 4H can be operated at speeds less than 100km/h but to switch to 4L the car has to be stopped. This is similiar to luxury 4×4 vehicles like the Ssangyong Rexton 4X4.

The D-MAX has a nice cabin interior similiar to sedans. Looks pretty comfy although I have not sit in one myself.

Other features are ABS, EBD, an LSD differential, and dual airbags for the automatic 4×4 and 4×2 versions and optional for the manual 4X4. The D-MAX can be driven laterally on slopes upto 49 degrees. The car comes with 16 inch alloy rims with 245/70/R16 tyres.

Isuzu Malaysia plans on pricing the D-MAX from RM85,000.80. The D-MAX owns a big share of the market in Thailand, battling out the pickup wars there against the Toyota Hilux. There’s potential for it to be a big thing here in the Malaysian market too.

I wonder where’s Mitsubishi gone to. Their Storm/L200 is the same model from years ago.And Honda’s SUT is targetted at the US market. It would be sweet to have a i-CTDi Honda SUT here in Malaysia.

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