Isuzu Malaysia has officially launched the new Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Standard, which will continue to be offered with a six-speed manual and automatic transmission. Now with a revised kit list, the Standard duo sees a price increase of RM1,500, with the manual version retailing for RM105,599.20 on-the-road without insurance, while the automatic sells for RM112,999.20.
Visually, the new Standard models are identified by their body-coloured door and tailgate handles, which were previously finished in silver. A reverse camera has also been added at the rear, meaning every double-cab variant of the D-Max (Standard, Auto Plus, Premium and X-Terrain) comes standard with the feature that makes backing up safer and more convenient.
Said camera sends its feed to a new seven-inch touchscreen head unit inside the cabin that replaces the previous and more basic 2-DIN system – Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker sound system are still present. Elsewhere, there are now two USB ports at the front – a Type A and Type C – instead of just a sole Type A, although the rear continues on with a single Type A.
Beyond these changes, the rest of the Standard is unchanged from before. You’ll still get front bulb-type fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, an e-Lumax instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch multi-info display, a 2-DIN head unit with six speakers, manual air-conditioning with rear vents, fabric seat upholstery and manually operated front seats.
For safety and driver assists, there are two frontal airbags, ABS, EBD, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, hill descent control, a brake override system, emergency stop signal, reverse sensors and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
As before, the front lighting setup is what differentiates the Standard models, with the manual model getting halogen reflector headlamps and bulb-type DRLs while the automatic comes with bi-LED projectors and LED DRLs.
Under the bonnet is the same RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre inline-four cylinder turbodiesel engine that outputs 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque from 1,800 rpm to 2,600 rpm. This is mated to the transmission of your choice as well as a selectable four-wheel drive system. Colour options continue to include Valencia Orange, Biarritz Blue, Splash White, Mercury Silver and Onyx Black. A five-year, 150,000-km warranty accompanies each purchase.
The third-generation Isuzu D-Max range gets a refresh for the 2023 model year, with revisions applied inside and out bringing updates in terms of aesthetics as well as equipment.
Pricing for the 2023 Isuzu D-Max range in Malaysia starts from RM94,949.20 for the 1.9L 4X4 MT Single Cab and RM101,888.40 for the 3.0L 4X4 MT Single Cab, followed by the 1.9L 4X4 MT Standard at RM104,099.20 and the 1.9L 4X4 AT Standard at RM111,499.20.
The 1.9L 4X2 Auto Plus is priced at RM105,499.20, while the 1.9L 4X4 AT Premium and 3.0L AT Premium are priced at RM129,149.20 and RM135,638.40, respectively. The 3.0L 4X4 X-Terrain – previously updated in June 2022 – caps the lot at RM150,938.40; all prices listed are for individual private registration in Peninsular Malaysia.
The number of variants offered in the 2023 D-Max line-up remains as before, where the double-cab automatic range is topped by the 4X4 X-Terrain with the 3.0L turbodiesel engine, followed by the 4×4 Premium with 3.0L and 1.9L powertrains, the 1.9L Auto Plus and the 1.9L Standard. The double cab manual transmission model in Standard trim gets the 1.9L engine, while the single-cab manual gets both 3.0L and 1.9L engines.
These continue to be the 4JJ3-TCX 2,999 cc litre inline-four cylinder VGS turbodiesel producing 190 PS at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque from 1,600 rpm to 2,600 rpm, and the RZ4E-TC 1,898 cc inline-four cylinder VGS turbodiesel that makes 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque from 1,800 rpm to 2,600 rpm.
These are paired with either a six-speed automatic with sequential shift, or a six-speed manual; new to the mechanical specification for 2023 is an electronically actuated differential lock that is now standard across the D-Max range.
Leading the list of latest changes are the new exterior colours for the top X-Terrain and Premium variants, which include the Islay Gray Mica finish seen here on the flagship 3.0L 4X4 AT X-Terrain, as well as for the Premium. Meanwhile, Dolomite White Pearl (X-Terrain and Premium) replaces Silky Pearl White, and Biarritz Blue Metallic (Premium, Auto Plus and Standard AT) replaces the previously discontinued Sapphire Blue.
Exterior revisions for the 2023 D-Max include a new grille that does away with the vertical elements of the outgoing design, and rolling stock now includes an 18-inch, six-Y-spoke wheel design in a dark finish for the X-Terrain and Premium variants, alongside a 17-inch six-spoke design in silver for the Auto Plus and Standard.
New combination tail lamp housings can be found on the X-Terrain and Premium variants, with the X-Terrain in particular getting a dark grey finish for the roof rails, door mirrors, door and tailgate handles, front bumper, side steps and over-fenders, plus silver finishing for the lower bumper garnish.
Inside, the leather upholstery for the X-Terrain and Premium variants get a new design and is finished in black, plus black soft-touch surfaces and for the X-Terrain in particular, interior trim sections in a Café Brown metallic finish.
Infotainment continues to be through the nine-inch touchscreen that provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wired connectivity, along with Bluetooth. This also offers a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, which can be activated by the AVM button to the right of the steering column.
A wireless phone charger continues to output 15 watts, though now gains a power switch with LED status indicator just ahead of the charging pad, and is specified on the X-Terrain, Premium and Auto Plus. The X-Terrain and Premium also gain a 2.1A USB Type C charging outlet.
The X-Terrain range-topper gets blue interior ambient lighting as well as front and rear digital video recorders, with the front camera recording at up to 1440p and the rear camera at up to 1080p to a supplied 64GB memory card, and footage can be transferred via WiFi through a smartphone app.
For safety equipment, the 2023 D-Max range gets as standard (for the 4X4 Single Cab and 4X4 Standard) two airbags for the driver and front passenger, ABS, EBD with brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, hill descent control, brake override, emergency stop signal, seat belt reminder for all seats and a rear differential lock.
The 1.9L 4X2 Auto Plus adds a reverse camera displayed on the seven-inch touchscreen head unit, while the Premium adds ADAS features with a blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert.
The range-topping X-Terrain brings the full complement of ADAS featuring forward collision warning, AEB, turn assist, pedal misapplication mitigation, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beam, lane departure warning, manual speed limiter and multi-collision brake in addition to blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert, while passive safety kit brings a total of seven airbags in this top variant.
To recap, pricing for the 2023 Isuzu D-Max range in Malaysia starts from RM94,949.20 for the 1.9L 4X4 MT Single Cab and RM101,888.40 for the 3.0L 4X4 MT Single Cab, followed by the 1.9L 4X4 MT Standard at RM104,099.20 and the 1.9L 4X4 AT Standard at RM111,499.20.
The 1.9L 4X2 Auto Plus is priced at RM105,499.20, while the 1.9L 4X4 AT Premium and 3.0L AT Premium are priced at RM129,149.20 and RM135,638.40, respectively. Finally, the range-topping 3.0L 4X4 X-Terrain caps the lot at RM150,938.40; all prices listed are for individual private registration in Peninsular Malaysia.
Warranty coverage is five years or 150,000 km for all variants of the 2023 Isuzu D-Max, save for the X-Terrain which gets a seven-year, unlimited mileage warranty.
The Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain, which is the 3.0L flagship variant of the third-generation D-Max, has been updated for 2022. The range topper gets ‘minor but significant updates’ to its equipment list, which is already pretty long.
Let’s cut to the chase. The new additions include two new colour options for the X-Terrain – Silky Pearl White and Onyx Black. These two join the signature Valencia Orange. Sapphire Blue has been discontinued, so it’s three colours for the X-Terrain now.
There’s a new around-view monitor that provides a 360-degree view of the truck’s surroundings. This feature not only provides a bird’s eye view when reverse gear is selected, it also sports a selectable 3D guide in the 9.0-inch central touchscreen. For a vehicle as big as this, parking aids are useful help. You’ll find new cameras integrated in the grille and wing mirrors to support AVM.
Also new is a wireless charger placed ahead of the gear lever. Another popular customer request has been for the inclusion of welcome lights. Tucked away under the truck, these LED lamps light up the surrounding foot areas when the doors are unlocked, so you’ll know what you’re stepping on. It’s a nice touch that works in tandem with follow-me home lights.
Last but not least in the list of extra kit are illuminated scuff plates. These have the X-Terrain logo and the light is white, like the welcome LEDs.
“The popularity of the D-Max range, particularly the X-Terrain variant remains healthy with many first-time owners reveling in life with a modern pick-up truck. Its inspiring safety, comfort and go-anywhere, do-anything versatility has led to a gradual migration of saloon car owners. I believe that with these new added features and colour choices, the D-Max X-Terrain will continue to appeal to many more who are tempted to convert,” said Isuzu Malaysia COO Kenkichi Sogo.
With the added equipment comes a slight increase in price, which is now RM146,938 on-the-road without insurance. The X-Terrain’s April 2021 launch price was RM141,938, so it’s a RM5,000 hike. The warranty for the X-Terrain is a seven-year unlimited mileage package. Yes, seven. It is now open for booking and deliveries are set to start in the middle of July.
Here’s a short recap on the specs. The X-Terrain is powered by a 3.0 litre VGS turbodiesel with 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,600 rpm. The ‘Blue Power’ engine is paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox, and the Terrain Command 4WD system allows one to switch between modes (2WD, 4WD-high, 4WD-low) on the fly via a dashboard knob. There’s also a rear diff lock, underbody protection and 800 mm wading depth.
The top D-Max comes with a full suite of ADAS features including Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Turn Assist, AT Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go function, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic High Beam, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. It also has seven airbags.
In this video, we’ll touch on some of the D-Max’s more obscure but not insignificant details, such as wading depth, re-engineered propeller shaft, and wireless Apple CarPlay. This makes the D-Max the only pick-up truck in the country to come with wireless Apple CarPlay, a feature BMW and Volkswagen owners have been enjoying as of late.
Again, in terms of pricing, the D-Max is priced between RM89k for the entry-level Single Cab model to RM142k for the range-topping X-Terrain. You can also browse CarBase.my for a more comprehensive look at the specifications, or compare the D-Max against other pick-up trucks.
Isuzu Malaysia officially launched the third-generation D-Max here about eight months ago. The pick-up range comprises seven variants, priced between RM89k for the entry-level Single Cab model to RM142k for the range-topping X-Terrain seen here.
While the rest of the range have the option of a smaller 1.9 litre lump, the X-Terrain is exclusively powered by the big boy 4JJ3 3.0 litre turbodiesel engine. It gets a new engine head and turbocharger, and makes 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque. That’s a 13 PS and 70 Nm increase over the older 4JJ1 3.0L unit.
On paper, the 3.0L mill’s output may appear to be lagging behind the competition, but Isuzu typically “downtunes” the engine in favour of reliability. There’s a reason why Isuzu Malaysia is confident with giving the X-Terrain a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty! Oh, the engine is also rated for B20 biodiesel.
Isuzu Malaysia has expanded the number of D-Max variants to eight with the introduction of the new 1.9L 4×2 AT Plus, which is priced at RM100,999 on-the-road without insurance. No sales tax exemption here because pick-up trucks are classified as commercial vehicles and are not eligible.
The new variant, as with others in the D-Max range, comes fully imported (CBU) from Thailand and slots in between the existing 1.9L 4×4 MT Standard and 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard in terms of pricing. It is also the only one that comes with a rear-wheel drive powertrain, as all others are four-wheel drive.
According to Isuzu Malaysia, only 28% of Malaysian pick-up truck users frequently engage their vehicle’s 4×4 system, so adding a 4×2 variant makes sense for customers who prefer a powertrain that is less complex.
As the name suggests, the new variant is powered by Isuzu’s RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that serves up 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,600 rpm.
Drive is sent to the rear wheels via six-speed torque converter automatic with a sequential shift function. Without a transfer case, front differential and ancillary drive system, the 1.9L 4×2 AT Plus has a kerb weight of 1,830 kg, which is 85 kg less than the 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard.
On that mention, the new variant’s kit list is nearly identical to the 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard, with standard items being 17-inch alloy wheels, bi-LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs, bulb-type taillights and front fog lamps, a matte grey front grille, powered side mirrors with integrated LED indicators, side steps and a bed liner. Small exterior differences involve the door and tailgate handles, which are body colour on the AT Plus and Silver on the AT Standard, along with the addition “4×2 Auto Plus” decals.
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Moving inside, the AT Plus gets four-spoke, multi-function steering wheel that is wrapped in leather instead of the AT Standard’s urethane unit. Beyond this, it’s once again similar, as the AT Plus comes with an e-Lumax instrument cluster featuring a 4.2-inch colour LCD display, a seven-inch touchscreen head unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, six speaker, manual, single-zone air-conditioning with rear vents, manual seats and fabric upholstery.
The same could be said of the safety features, which includes two airbags (dual front), ESC, traction control, ABS, EBD, brake assist, hill start assist, hill descent control, brake override system, emergency stop signal, four reverse sensors and Isofix child seat anchors. A reverse camera is also standard on the new variant, but isn’t found on the AT Standard.
Isuzu Malaysia offers the 1.9L 4×2 AT Plus in a choice of five colours (Valencia Orange, Sapphire Blue, Mercury Silver, Onyx Black and Splash White) – same options as the 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard – and there’s also an optional sport bar for an additional RM1,320. A five-year, 150,000-km warranty is included with every purchase.
With the new variant introduction, the D-Max line-up in Malaysia is now as follows (prices are for Peninsular Malaysia for individual registrations):
2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain – RM141,938
2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0L 4×4 AT Premium – RM128,038
2021 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×4 AT Premium – RM121,549
2021 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard – RM106,999
2021 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×2 AT Plus – RM100,999
2021 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×4 MT Standard – RM99,599
2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0L 4×4 MT Single Cab – RM95,538
Isuzu has teamed up with Arctic Trucks once again to introduce the new D-Max AT35 for the UK market. It’s exactly what it looks like – a serious off-roading pick-up truck that’s designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts.
Set to go on sale in the first quarter of 2022, the widebody D-Max AT35 promises to let owners “explore without limits” thanks to a beefier chassis, Bilstein performance suspension and wide custom wheels shod with 35-inch all-terrain tyres. Further technical details are still under wraps, but expect them to be released closer to launch.
Besides being an off-road tool, the D-Max AT35 gets luxury appointments such as a full leather interior upholstery with bespoke Arctic Truck headrests, custom floor mats, branded sill covers, plus a nine-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. There’s also a HDMI port and eight speakers with a subwoofer for extra measure.
One of the biggest appeals with the latest D-Max is the array of safety features it offers. The AT35 is no different, featuring adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, pedal misapplication mitigation, high beam assist, intelligent speed limiter, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, and emergency lane keeping.
Isuzu UK managing director William Brown said: “It is a pleasure to work with Arctic Trucks on this prototype in advance of the launch of our new AT35. Following the success of the all-new D-Max launch in 2021, it feels very exciting to be launching another new vehicle in 2022.”
“We wanted to build upon the D-Max’s strengths to make a highly desirable and highly competent 4×4 pick-up and we are so pleased with the result. Through using Arctic Trucks’ impressive expertise alongside the D-Max’s impressive abilities the AT35 is truly an outstanding truck.”
Because it’s jointly developed with Isuzu, the D-Max AT35 comes with the same five-year or 125,000-mile factory warranty coverage. It’s quite the looker, isn’t it?
The arrival of the third-generation Isuzu D-Max in the Malaysian market has brought a significant uptick in sales compared to its predecessor, which is in line with global sales trends for the pick-up truck, says Isuzu.
The third-generation D-Max has seen an average of 1,200 bookings every month in Malaysia since its local debut in April this year, which is more than double the average monthly bookings of 500 units achieved by the second-generation model. This reflects similar trends seen in markets such as Australia, New Zealand and Thailand, according to the company.
Topping the popularity chart among the D-Max variants is the 1.9 litre Premium automatic, which accounted for close to 36% of D-Max purchases. The relatively small displacement diesel engine was also credited with the model’s popularity in Peninsular Malaysia, accounting for 61% of overall sales across the country and reversing the traditional 60:40 sales proportion that has historically seen an East Malaysia majority.
The 3.0 litre X-Terrain flagship variant accounted for 17% of D-Max sales nationwide, of which more than half were purchased by Peninsular Malaysia customers. Features in the X-Terrain include the ADAS suite including forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality, auto high beam, lane departure warning, pedal misapplication mitigation, and turn assist.
“The response to this new model has been extremely positive considering the limited opportunities our prospects have had to fully experience the new model, due to the strict movement controls and safety protocols. Our current aim is to ensure the smooth, safe and timely delivery of vehicles to our customers despite the various administrative and logistical concerns faced domestically and globally,” said Isuzu Malaysia COO Masayuki Suzuki.
The aforementioned 1.9 litre diesel is the existing RZ4E-TC common-rail injection engine that has been refined and offers improved throttle response, with outputs unchanged at 150 PS and 450 Nm of torque.
Recipient of even more upgrades is its 4JJ3 3.0 litre turbodiesel sibling, now fitted with a new engine head and turbocharger with the resulting outputs of 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, or 13 PS and 70 Nm more than those from the previous 4JJ1 powerplant which was also of a 3.0 litre displacement.
For the third generation, the Isuzu D-Max is now built on the Dynamic Drive Platform iteration of the body-on-frame construction that is typical of pick-up trucks, offering improved rigidity, crash protection, driving stability and reduced NVH levels. The engine intake assembly has been raised, enabling an increased wading depth from 600 mm to 800 mm.
Further improvements include a 30 mm gain in wheelbase, rear doors that now open wider, 20 mm more shoulder room for rear occupants, larger brakes and revised suspension geometry. For off-roading, its underbody now comes with a 1.5 mm-thick steel skid plate, with an additional 6 mm steel sump guard for the engine and gearbox. Ground clearance is 240 mm when fitted with 18-inch wheels.
In Malaysia, the third-generation Isuzu D-Max is priced from RM88,599 for the 1.9L 4×4 Single Cab, rising to RM95,538 for the 3.0L 4×4 Single Cab. The 1.9L 4×4 MT Standard kicks off the twin-cab body list at RM99,599, followed by the 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard (RM106,999), 1.9L 4×4 AT Premium (RM121,549) and 3.0L 4×4 AT Premium (RM128,038). The top 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain is priced at RM142,938.
Pick-up trucks. Once viewed as merely workhorses, they have gradually evolved to become lifestyle vehicles with plenty of creature comforts like on a regular car. Of course, the added benefits of owning a pick-up is the level of utility that comes along with it, like lugging around items that won’t fit in a conventional boot, and going on trails without tarmac, whenever that may be.
As such, many find the “best of both worlds” pitch to be quite appealing, and several brands have made their offerings a lot more attractive in terms of styling and features available. If you don’t mind their size, there are plenty of options on the market, so we thought it’d be a good idea to compare the specifications of the big names to help you come to a decision.
To make sure every brand places its best foot forward, we’re only listing out the top-spec variants of each model, because those are the ones that get all the goodies. From Toyota, we have the well-known Hilux in its range-topping 2.8 Rogue guise, while Isuzu is represented by the D-Max 3.0 X-Terrain.
Other models from Japanese brands include the Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Athlete and the Nissan Navara 2.5 Pro-4X, with the latter being the most recent to join the market. The only non-Japanese model of the five-model comparison is the Ford Ranger 2.0 Wildtrak, which is the more sensible range-topper seeing how the Raptor and Raptor X are considerably more expensive at over RM200,000.
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On that mention, the Ranger Wildtrak is the priciest of the bunch, followed by the Hilux Rogue, Navara Pro-4X, D-Max X-Terrain and Triton Athlete. All pick-ups don’t benefit from the ongoing sales tax exemption that ends in June, so don’t let that affect your purchase decision. Additionally, of the five models, only the Hilux is locally assembled (CKD), with the rest being fully imported (CBU) from Thailand.
In terms of engines, it’s four-cylinder turbodiesels across the board, although none of them have the same specifications. The Hilux Rogue uses a 2.8 litre unit that makes 204 PS (201 hp) and 500 Nm of torque, putting it in second place in terms of output behind the Ranger Wildtrak’s 2.0 litre engine – the lowest displacement of the bunch – that has an additional turbocharger to deliver 213 PS (210 hp) and 500 Nm.
Below the 200 PS (197 hp) mark, the D-Max X-Terrain’s 3.0 litre and Navara Pro-4X’s 2.5 litre units both make 190 PS (187 hp) and 450 Nm, although the latter arrives a little later on the Nissan model. The Triton’s smaller-displacement 2.4 litre, single-turbo mill serves up a respectable 181 PS (178 hp) and 430 Nm, making it the least powerful one here, although it is the lightest at 1,930 kg, while the rest are over two tonnes.
For drivetrains, it’s a six-speed automatic for the Toyota, Isuzu and Mitsubishi pick-ups, with the Navara gaining an additional gear for a seven-speed unit, and the Ranger gets a 10-speed gearbox. Selectable four-wheel drive with rear differential lock is standard for all, but the Hilux Rogue has a limited-slip differential added to the rear to control power delivery when slip is detected from the rear wheels.
The Navara Pro-4X also displays its own level of sophistication by using a multi-link setup for its rear suspension compared to the usual leaf springs, while the Ranger gets an electrically assisted power steering system instead of a hydraulic system.
If you do plan on actually loading things into the flatbed, all but the Triton Athlete are offered with tailgate assist (optional with the Hilux Rogue) to make it easier for you lift and lower the tailgate. This isn’t the only convenience feature available, as a 360-degree camera is standard on the Triton Athlete and Navara Pro-4X, and optional with the Hilux Rogue – handy for tight situations and an overhead view.
As for water wading depth, official brochure figures show the Navara is capable of fording 600 mm of water, followed by the Triton and Hilux at 700 mm, and the D-Max and Ranger at 800 mm. While these numbers might provide some sense of confidence, it is never advisable to try and take on flooded areas – avoid it if you can is the best approach.
An area where pick-ups have improved significantly is in terms of safety, and all the pick-ups in their upper configuration here come with six airbags minimum, with the Hilux Rogue, D-Max X-Terrain and Triton Athlete gaining an additional driver’s knee airbag for a total of seven.
You’ll also find stability control, lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking as standard fitments too, the last two being particularly useful when coping with city driving. Other features such as blind spot assist is found on all but the Ranger Wildtrak, while adaptive cruise control can only be had with all but the Triton Athlete.
While there are differences, there’s no denying that the pick-ups of today have immensely better safety and driver assistance systems than before. The fundamentals are present on all of them, particularly AEB, and anything else added on is a bonus.
Life on the inside is pretty cushy too, with some form of leather upholstery standard for all models, along with dual- or single-zone automatic air-conditioning. Only the Ranger Wildtrak comes without rear vents, but this is found on the remaining four pick-ups. You also get support for wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the D-Max X-Terrain having the upper hand of wireless connectivity.
Styling is a subjective thing, but all five pick-ups are certainly bold and imposing things to look at, each distinctive in their own way. While 17-inch wheels are used for the Navara Pro-4X, it’s 18-inch sets for the rest. For those that need additional anchors or an added dash of style, a sports bar can also be specified as an option on three of the five models (standard with the Triton Athlete and Ranger Wildtrak).
With this rundown of the top variants of pick-up models available here in Malaysia, which one would you prefer if you had to lay down the money on one and why? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
At long last, Isuzu Malaysia has finally launched the third-generation D-Max in Malaysia. There will be seven variants of the pick-up truck on offer (down from 11 previously), priced between RM89k to RM142k. All of them are fully imported from Thailand, but there are plans for local assembly down the line.
The range starts with the 1.9L 4×4 Single Cab model at RM88,599, above which is the 3.0L 4×4 Single Cab that’s priced at RM95,538. Twin cab models start from the 1.9L 4×4 MT Standard (RM99,599), and further up are the 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard (RM106,999), 1.9L 4×4 AT Premium (RM121,549) and 3.0L 4×4 AT Premium (RM128,038). All six variants listed here get a five-year or 150,000 km warranty coverage as standard.
Isuzu Malaysia has finally launched the D-Max in Malaysia, nearly two weeks after releasing the full details of the third-generation pick-up truck. There will be seven variants on offer, priced between RM89k to RM142k. All of them are fully imported from Thailand, but there are plans for local assembly down the line.
The range starts with the 1.9L 4×4 Single Cab model at RM88,599, above which is the 3.0L 4×4 Single Cab that’s priced at RM95,538. Twin cab models start from the 1.9L 4×4 MT Standard (RM99,599), and further up are the 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard (RM106,999), 1.9L 4×4 AT Premium (RM121,549) and 3.0L 4×4 AT Premium (RM128,038). All six variants listed here get a five-year or 150,000 km warranty coverage as standard.
Sitting at the top of the range is the 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain. At RM141,938, it’s exclusively available with the larger 3.0 litre mill, and takes on the new Nissan Navara Pro-4X, Toyota Hilux 2.8 Rogue AT, Mitsubishi Triton Athlete, and the one that started this feud – the Ford Ranger Wildtrak. It’s the only D-Max variant to get a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty coverage, and it can only be had in Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue.
In terms of powertrain, the existing RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre common-rail four-cylinder diesel engine (with variable geometry turbo) has been refined further and offers better throttle response. Outputs are unchanged, at 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque.
The 3.0 litre engine received even bigger upgrades, courtesy of a new engine head and turbocharger, just to name a few. The 4JJ3 mill produces 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, representing a 13 PS and 70 Nm increase over the older 4JJ1 3.0L unit.
On paper, the 3.0L mill’s output may appear to be lagging behind the competition, but Isuzu typically “downtunes” the engine in favour of reliability. After all, durability is key to its customer base, plus both the 1.9L and 3.0L engines can take up to B20 biodiesel. Also new are the six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions (both tweaked to provide smoother gearshifts), as well as a shift-by-wire 4×4 selector dial.
Just to recap, the new D-Max rides on Isuzu’s new Dynamic Drive Platform (still a body-on-frame construction), offering better structural rigidity, crash protection, driving stability and the reduction of NVH levels. The intake system has been raised, thus increasing wading depth from 600 mm to 800 mm.
Other areas of improvement include a 30 mm increase in wheelbase, revised rear door apertures that open wider for better ingress and egress, a 20 mm increase in rear shoulder space, and a seatback angle of 24 degrees. The brakes are larger (320 mm x 30 mm rotors), and the suspension geometry has been tweaked as well.
It also features a more wedge-shaped profile for improved aerodynamics, a larger underbody cover that reduces turbulence, cleaner body lines for smoother air flow, and taller cargo side walls with a slightly redesigned cargo bay.
Those who plan to take it off road will be glad to know that the front underbody section is protected with a 1.5 mm-thick steel skid plate, plus an additional 6 mm steel sump guard for the engine and gearbox. There’s also a 5 mm resin wind deflector on top of that, and the ground clearance is 240 mm (models equipped with 18-inch wheels only).
Isuzu Malaysia has released details of the third-generation D-Max in full, and we now know that there will be seven variants to choose from when the pick-up officially goes on sale starting April 26. Prices start from RM89k to RM142k, and all of them are fully imported from Thailand.
Sitting at the top of the range is the 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain, which is priced at RM141,938. It’s the only variant to get Isuzu’s full suite of advanced driver assist system, as well as more upmarket appointments such as the nine-inch touchscreen head unit, brown leather upholstery, and dark headlining.
Powering the pick-up is the automaker’s updated 4JJ3 3.0 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which produces 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque. That is 13 PS and 70 Nm more than what the older 4JJ1 3.0L lump made, and this is thanks to a new engine head, turbocharger, and beefier internals.
Lastly, the D-Max gets a five-year or 150,000 km warranty coverage as standard, but only the range-topping 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain gets a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty coverage. The X-Terrain is also available in Valencia Orange and Sapphire Blue only. Watch the video to find out what we think of it!
At long last, the third-generation Isuzu D-Max has finally landed in Malaysia. At launch, there will be seven variants (all CBU, for now) on offer, starting with the 1.9L 4×4 Single Cab at RM88,599, and goes all the way up to RM141,938 for the top 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain variant. We’ll have a breakdown of each variant and its equipment, below. And yes, all seven variants are 4×4 models.
A lot has been done to bring the D-Max up to par with competitors. Isuzu director and chief engineer Chifumi Saito said the third-gen model was developed from the outset to meet increasingly tough customer demands, which prioritised having more creature comforts, higher interior quality, and more power and torque.
Since it’s essentially still a workhorse, we’ll start with the powertrain, of which there are two. Cheaper variants get the existing RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre common-rail four-cylinder diesel engine with variable geometry turbo, producing 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Outputs are unchanged, but Isuzu says it is more refined now, and offers better throttle response.
The big news here is the 4JJ3 3.0 litre engine, which powers the top two 4×4 AT Premium and 4×4 AT X-Terrain models, as well as the 4×4 Single Cab. It produces 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, representing a 13 PS and 70 Nm increase over the older 4JJ1 3.0L unit, thanks to a new engine head and turbocharger.
On paper, the 3.0L mill’s output may appear to be lagging behind the competition, but Isuzu typically “downtunes” the engine in favour of reliability. After all, durability is key to its customer base, plus both the 1.9L and 3.0L engines can take up to B20 biodiesel. Also new are the six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions (both tweaked to provide smoother gearshifts), as well as a shift-by-wire 4×4 selector dial.
Let’s start with the base 1.9L 4×4 Single Cab model. At RM88,599, it gets halogen reflector headlights with bulb-type daytime running lights, unpainted front bumper and wing mirror caps (power adjustable mirrors, though), 16-inch steel wheels, basic backlit analogue instrumentation, four-spoke urethane steering wheel, 1-Din head unit with USB and two speakers, vinyl seats, and manual climate control system.
Safety-wise, it gets dual airbags, ABS with EBD, hill start assist, hill descent control, traction control system, and seat belt reminder for all seats. There is also the the 3.0L 4×4 Single Cab, which retails for RM95,538. Engines aside, these two are identical in terms of equipment, and they are only available in solid Splash White paint. The bed liner is a RM950 option, by the way, and the sports bar costs an additional RM1,320.
Above that is the 1.9L 4×4 MT Standard, priced at RM99,599. This twin-cab variant gets upgraded with painted front bumper and wing mirror caps, halogen fog lamps, 17-inch alloys with 255/65 profile tyres, reverse parking sensors, a nicer instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch multi-info display, multifunction urethane steering wheel, woven cloth seats, 2-Din head unit with Bluetooth and six speakers, plus rear air vents with 2.1A USB charging ports (standard for all twin-cab variants).
For a little bit more money you can get the 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard, which goes for RM106,999. Here, it tacks on bi-LED projector headlights with LED daytime running lights, but the rest remain the same. The MT Standard can be had in three colours (Splash White, Mercury Silver and Onyx Black), while the AT Standard adds on Valencia Orange and Sapphire Blue for a total of five.
The variant that most people will start considering from is the 1.9L 4×4 AT Premium. It’s priced at RM121,549 and gets automatic bi-LED projector headlights, LED front and rear fog lamps, LED combination tail lights, chrome wing mirrors with auto-fold function, 18-inch alloys with 265/60 all-terrain tyres, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, and a seven-inch touchscreen head unit with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and WiFi functionalities.
It also gets eight speakers (with ceiling-mounted tweeters), black combination leather seats, more premium leather and satin chrome trimmings, electrochromic rear-view mirror, and dual-zone automatic climate control system. Other conveniences include passive cruise control, keyless entry with push-start, welcome lights, reverse camera, and a tailgate assist system.
Unfortunately, the advanced driver assist system is only limited to blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and the AT Premium still comes with just two front airbags. The exterior colour palette comprises the same five hues as the 1.9L 4×4 AT Premium, but the Splash White paint gets replaced with the more premium Silky White Pearl instead.
Sliding in at RM128,038 is the 3.0L 4×4 AT Premium. Upgrading to this V-Cross variant only nets you the larger powertrain, as well as a six-way manual adjustment for the driver seat. The airbag count still two.
Last but not least is the range-topping 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain. It’s priced at RM141,938, representing a jump of nearly RM14k over the 3.0L AT Premium. For that kind of money, you get a special windscreen that cuts infrared light transmission, premium aerofoil wiper blades with integrated windshield washer nozzles, 18-inch dark grey alloys wrapped with 265/60 all-terrain tyres, a differential lock, and remote engine start.
Inside, it is the only variant to get the nicer brown leather upholstery, dark headlining, eight-way power adjustable driver seat with lumbar support, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, as well as a larger nine-inch touchscreen display.
In terms of safety, it gets the full shebang, with seven airbags, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality, auto high beam, lane departure warning, pedal misapplication mitigation, and turn assist offered as standard. There’s still no 360-degree surround view camera, so it makes do with just a reverse camera and parking sensors.
Just to recap, the new D-Max rides on Isuzu’s new Dynamic Drive Platform (still a body-on-frame construction), offering better structural rigidity, crash protection, driving stability and the reduction of NVH levels. The intake system has been raised, thus increasing wading depth from 600 mm to 800 mm.
Other areas of improvement include a 30 mm increase in wheelbase, revised rear door apertures that open wider for better ingress and egress, a 20 mm increase in rear shoulder space, and a seatback angle of 24 degrees. The brakes are larger (320 mm x 30 mm rotors), and the suspension geometry has been tweaked as well.
It also features a more wedge-shaped profile for improved aerodynamics, a larger underbody cover that reduces turbulence, cleaner body lines for smoother air flow, and taller cargo side walls with a slightly redesigned cargo bay.
Those who plan to take it off road will be glad to know that the front underbody section is protected with a 1.5 mm-thick steel skid plate, plus an additional 6 mm steel sump guard for the engine and gearbox. There’s also a 5 mm resin wind deflector on top of that, and the ground clearance is 240 mm (models equipped with 18-inch wheels only).
Lastly, the D-Max gets a five-year or 150,000 km warranty coverage as standard, but only the range-topping 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain gets a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty coverage. The X-Terrain is also available in Valencia Orange and Sapphire Blue only. The D-Max will officially be launched on April 26.
The model tested was a left-hand drive twin cab (results valid for 4×4 RHD too), which achieved 32.2 points (84%) out of a possible 38 for adult occupant protection. It scored marginally higher with 86% in the child occupant protection. In fact, the assessment saw the D-Max achieve full score – it protected all critical body areas of both child dummies during the test, which is commendable.
Another strong point for the D-Max is that AEB, or autonomous emergency braking, is fitted as standard. It’s a camera-based system that works from upwards of 8 km/h. Euro NCAP says the system performed well in detection and reactionary tests in the presence of other vehicles, with collision being avoided or mitigated in most cases.
Other driver assist systems include driver monitoring system (detects fatigue via steering and camera inputs), lane centring system, and camera-based traffic sign recognition system. It scored a decent 83% in the Safety Assist assessment. Again, not bad for a pick-up truck.
The points tally took a slight dip in the “Vulnerable Road User” test. Here, the D-Max scored just 69%, giving it an above average rating for pedestrian protection. The D-Max’s AEB system does feature pedestrian and cyclist detection, but these are forward-facing only. However, during the test, AEB avoided or mitigated nearly all instances of a collision.
There is also a new E-Call system which automatically dials the emergency services in the event of an accident. This is a mandatory requirement for the Euro NCAP five-star rating, and the requirements for a full score are significantly higher than in previous years, with heavier and faster trolleys used in the collisions and the mandatory requirement of additional safety features.
Every variant of the new Isuzu D-Max weighs under 2,040 kg, and is therefore subject to normal passenger car speed limits. All 4×4 models that will be sold in Europe are certified with a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, plus a maximum payload of over one tonne.
