After a simple teaser yesterday, Isuzu Malaysia has released detailed information on their latest model- the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2 AT. Priced from RM100,999.20, the model is the only 2WD pick-up variant in the new third-generation D-Max range. As such, it is also the lowest priced Japanese pick-up truck equipped with an automatic transmission in Malaysia.
EXTERIOR
In Thailand, 2WD or 4×2 drivetrains are usually paired with the low-riding chassis, as seen on the Mitsubishi Triton Quest 4×2 MT and the older Ford Ranger 2WD. Isuzu Malaysia has ensured that even with a 4×2 drivetrain, the latest model continues to be high-riding, with a ground clearance of 240 mm and a water wading depth of 800 mm. Standard features on the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2, which mirrors the Standard 4×4 variant include:
- Bi-LED projector headlamps with “follow-me-home” function and LED DRLs
- Body-coloured side mirror covers, door handles and rear bumper
- Bulb-type taillamps
- 17-inch wheels with 255/65R17 tyres
- Side steps
Exterior colour choices are Splash White Solid, Mercury Silver Metallic, Onyx Black Mica, Sapphire Blue Mica and the striking Valencia Orange Metallic.
INTERIOR
It is however the interior that sees a large upgrade in the D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus compared to the Standard variant. While it maintains the same black dashboard without the soft-touch material, the infotainment system now has been updated to a 7-inch touchscreen system with full features and six speakers.
Apart from the usual USB and Bluetooth input, the advanced infotainment system also has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink, and Miracast smartphone connectivity. This system was only available from the Premium 4×4 variant. Other interior features in the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2 include:
- 4-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Fabric seats
- 4.2-inch TFT multi-info display with e-LUMAX illumination
- Manual air-conditioning system with rear vents
- Front and rear USB charging ports
- 60-40 split-folding rear seats with under-seat storage compartments
PERFORMANCE
As with the model’s name, powering the new Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2 is the frugal yet powerful 1.9-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel mill. Outputs are unchanged at 150 hp at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode transfers power to the rear wheels in this latest Isuzu D-Max variant.
- Engine: RZ4E-TC 1,898 cc; inline-four turbodiesel
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission
- Drivertrain: Rear-wheel drive
- Max Power: 150 hp @ 3,600 rpm
- Max Torque: 350 Nm @ 1,800 – 2,600 rpm
Isuzu Malaysia revealed that only 28% of Malaysian pick-up truck users frequently engage their vehicle’s 4×4 system. As such, the 4×2 variant is an ideal variant that offers lower rolling resistance from its less complex drivetrain, fewer items that require maintenance, and a lower kerb weight making this model a boon for urban users and high-mileage drivers.
The 4×2 drivetrain sees a reduction of 85 kg off the kerb weight, with the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus tipping the scales at 1,830 kg.
SAFETY
At the safety front, the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2 mirrors the Standard variant which sees features such as dual front airbags, EBD, ESC, TCS, HSA, Hill Descent Control, Brake Override System and seat belt reminders for all seats.
ASEAN NCAP has also rated the new Isuzu D-Max with a full 5-star rating.
Thanks to the inclusion of the 7-inch infotainment screen, the live feed from the rearview parking camera can also be displayed.
PRICE
Priced at RM100,999.20 (the 20 sen is derived from the road tax of RM399.20) in Peninsula Malaysia, the new Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2 comes with a standard five-year/150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first).
While competitors such as Mitsubishi do offer a 2WD drivetrain, the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2 AT is the only high-riding 2WD pick-up truck with automatic transmission, as such, undercutting the Ford Ranger XL 4×4 AT by over RM4,000.
The Mitsubishi Triton Quest MT meanwhile at under RM80,000 is a low-riding pick-up truck with much more basic features and reflective engine performance of 110 hp/200 Nm and manual transmission.
“In these challenging times, the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L brings a new level of relief by offering affordability and capability in a well-appointed and stylish package. This new D-Max variant that we are introducing today will be the sole 4×2 offering in its class that comes with an automatic transmission,” said Isuzu Malaysia, Chief Operating Officer, Kenkichi Sogo.
UMW Toyota does not offer any variants with 4×2 drivetrain on the current generation Hilux.
