Isuzu D-Max launched in Malaysia – 5 factors that make it more SUV than a pick-up



Isuzu Malaysia has officially launched the all-new, third-generation D-Max pick-up truck in Malaysia through a digital broadcast on its social media pages earlier at noon.

The all-new third-generation Isuzu D-Max will be offered in seven variants across two engine choices including two variants of the single-cab. All variants will have Terrain Command 4×4 system fitted as standard:

Single cab

  • 1.9L 6MT- RM88,599.20
  • 3.0L 6MT- RM95,538.40

Double cab        

  • Standard 1.9L 6MT- RM99,599.20
  • Standard 1.9L 6AT-RM106,999.20
  • Premium 1.9L 6AT-RM121,549.20
  • Premium 3.0L 6AT-RM128,038.40
  • X-Terrain 3.0L 6AT and ADAS-RM141,938.40

Prices above are on-the-road, without insurance and individual private registration in Peninsular Malaysia.

Here are five cool features that sets this all-new Isuzu D-Max apart from its predecessor, as well as the competition.

1. Bold yet aerodynamic exterior with Bi-LED headlamps and stylish grey highlights

Bi-LED projector headlamps with DRLs can be found available from the Double Cab 1.9L Standard 6AT variant. The full-fledged X-Terrain 3.0L announces its presence even more boldly with the Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue paintwork highlighted by dark grey 18-inch wheels, roof rails, overfenders and other exterior items.

In order to achieve low coefficient of drag figures, the wipers feature an aerofoil design that also integrates the washer nozzle into the wiper arms

2. New 3.0L engine generates more torque and horsepower, whilst quieter

The 3.0L turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, codenamed 4JJ3-TCX, name delivers 190 hp at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1,600 – 2,600 rpm, an increase of 13 hp and 70 Nm respectively. Most of the benefits come from new piston and combustion chamber design and electronically-controlled high-efficiency Variable Geometry Turbocharger System (VGS).

Meanwhile, the adoption of double scissor gears helps reduce mechanical noise while diesel clatter is significantly reduced from a revised fuel injection timing.

3. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go (all speed) and a better use of the stereo camera

Apart from the regular adaptive cruise control that keeps a distance from the vehicle in front at driving speeds, the all-new D-Max also can keep up with slow-moving traffic under 30 km/h.

The stereo camera that primarily used for ADAS, has its functionality increased to be used in tandem with the rain and light sensors. The sensor in the X-Terrain and Premium variants is able to discern when the car is entering a tunnel or merely going under a bridge thereby reducing accidental triggering of the headlights.

Besides the adaptive cruise control (ACC), the flagship X-Terrain 3.0L variant also comes with autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, pedal misapplication mitigation and a new Turn Assist function, which makes turning into junctions a little safer as it applies emergency braking if detects oncoming vehicles.

4. Interior has the ambience of a premium SUV

While the all-new Isuzu D-Max has some familiarity on the outside, the complete opposite can be found in the interior. Soft-touch plastics are used liberally on the dashboard, centre console and door panels. The stitching effect adds to passenger-vehicle ambience in the all-new D-Max.

The large seats feature Anti-Vibration Elastic Comfort foam that can absorb vibrations quicker than regular design. Isuzu says the rear seats have an increase of 20 mm in shoulder room, plus a less angled seat back for better comfort during long journeys.

The centre of the high-quality dashboard houses a massive nine-inch infotainment system, projecting navigation maps from your smartphone with great clarity. The driver meanwhile gets plenty of driving information via a coloured 4.2-inch multi-information display. Clear audio is channelled through eight speakers, including two roof-mounted speakers plus a Virtual Acoustic Positioning System (VAPS).

The sporty shift lever meanwhile is illuminated with a soft glow, a first in its class to boast this premium design.

5. Remote Start and Walkaway Auto-lock

Not many vehicles feature the remote start function, what more in a pick-up truck! With this first-in-class feature, drivers can turn on the air-conditioning system to cool the cabin down together with a large rear vent.

The walkaway auto-lock automatically locks the all-new Isuzu D-Max once the key fob is 3 metres away.

For a more detailed coverage on the all-new Isuzu D-Max, click here.


GALLERY