The Isuzu D-Max is becoming electrified, although not quite reaching full EV levels just yet as the Japanese carmaker first previewed earlier this year – that will only be coming in 2025. Instead, it’s a mild-hybrid (MHEV) setup, with a smaller electric motor providing additional grunt when needed, while also significantly reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption.
Pricing for the Isuzu D-Max MHEV will start at THB1.145 million (approx. RM150k) for the Hi-Lander variant. A workhorse-oriented double-cab Cab4 variant will also be available, though pricing for that has yet to be confirmed.
The new MHEV powertrain pairs the acclaimed 1.9-litre turbodiesel mill with a small 48V motor and a 370 Wh battery system. While output figures remain unchanged at 150 hp and 350 Nm, the new MHEV powertrain will be able to recuperate energy via regenerative braking, which in turn provides additional grunt particularly when setting off from a standstill.
As before, the powertrain is paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox as usual, although no four-wheel drive options are available here – both the MHEV variants of the Isuzu D-Max HiLander and Cab4 are strictly rear-wheel driven only. According to local automotive title Headlight Magazine, the MHEV system contributed to a 45 kg weight gain.
In terms of equipment, the mild-hybrid Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander is basically identical to the ‘M’ equipment grade of its non-electrified counterpart, although you do get a “MHEV” decal to denote its greener beating heart. LED lighting is standard on both ends of the pickup truck, complemented by the body-coloured bumpers and 18-inch wheels.
Inside, the new D-Max MHEV gets an updated semi-digital instrument cluster that adds on specific displays for the regenerative braking functionality. Otherwise, the infotainment display still measures nine-inches diagonally with wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, it’s paired to eight speakers, and the seats are still wrapped in the same faux-leather upholstery – save for the steering wheel that gets real leather trims.
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The advanced driver assistance features are also retained from the standard car, with features including a full-speed-range adaptive cruise control system, autonomous emergency braking with cross-traffic support, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and blind spot warning.
As for the Cab4 variant, it should also mirror the specifications of the non-electrified Cab4 M variant, though actual details will have to wait until a later date.
We don’t know yet if the Isuzu D-Max MHEV will make its way into Malaysia, although our current model – available in a whopping eight variants – is also fully imported from Thailand (CBU).
Prices for the Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia starts from RM98,949 for the workhorse single-cab variant, topping out at RM157,938 for the X-Terrain 3.0L that is geared towards lifestyle applications. Watch our full review of the latter here!
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