All-new Isuzu D-Max: Still tough but more refined and smarter than before

By CARSIFU | 3 May 2021


PETALING JAYA: Known for its rugged-build quality, robust dependability and fuel efficiency, Isuzu's D-Max 4X4 pick-up truck series is back in the latest all-new third-generation with all its well-loved features now in a more stylish and intelligent package.

So whether your weekend plans are for a tough off-road jaunt to a secluded beach or for an evening commute to your favourite downtown restaurant, the all-new D-Max has what it takes to be the vehicle of choice for these and any journey between.

Officially available now, the all-new D-Max has been designed from the ground up marches in with a distinctively bold and sporty outlook that elevates the image of this rugged pick-up truck to offer a more SUV-like appeal, features and refinement.

Owners will get to know that the all-new D-Max is stylish and comfortable without losing any of the line-up's off-roading capability, toughness and reliability.

The X-Terrain is the most well-equipped variant.
The X-Terrain is the most well-equipped variant.


Isuzu Malaysia chief executive officer Koji Nakamura said Isuzu engineers had set out to create a stronger, more able and durable machine with this new model.

"They invested years in development and over four million kilometers in testing the new model to achieve the best Isuzu D-Max they have ever created.

“They then added the soft touches and high-tech features to satisfy the discerning owners who desire comfort and sophistication in their modern day vehicles,” Nakamura said.

The all-new D-Max line-up comes in seven variants and available in single or double cab, six-speed manual or automatic transmission and a 1.9-litre or 3.0-litre Blue Power turbodiesel engine.



Entering the high-end lifestyle pick-up truck segment is the flagship X-Terrain variant that gets a revised 3.0-litre engine which has been re-engineered and refined with numerous advancements to improve performance and engine response while reducing noise and vibration.

The new engine produces 190PS ensures X-Terrain drivers enjoy more relaxed performance from its revised torque curve that peaks at 450Nm from as low as 1,600rpm, stretching all the way till 2,600rpm while the new 6-speed automatic gearbox matches the gearshifts to the engine’s performance characteristics.

Luxurious interior.
Luxurious interior.


Built on a new Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform, the all-new D-Max gets a new ladder frame that is stiffer and stronger for better handling and durability.

A new suspension configuration with a longer wheelbase allows the engine bulk to be located further behind the front wheels, the result is a more dynamic handling and comfortable ride.

Available in Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue, the X-Terrain comes with exclusive features including remote engine start, rear differential lock, wet wiper system, brown leather seats with 8-way electronic adjustment including lumbar support, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen panel that incorporates Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay.

It also comes with the Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) that includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Turn Assist, Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with stop & go function, Automatic High Beams (AHB), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Manual Speed Limiter (MSL) and Multi-Collision Brake that applies the brakes should any of the seven airbags be deployed.

Bold and sporty lines.
Bold and sporty lines.


Also in the line-up are two Premium variants – a 1.9-litre 4X4 Auto and 3.0-litre 4X4 Auto – that offer outstanding motoring and comfort while remaining the dependable workhorse Isuzu is famously renowned for.

Aimed at the discerning motorists whose applications lean towards daily duties, the Premium variants are an ideal model for drivers who spend significant hours in the saddle as the new comfort features and safety equipment in the cabin make it ideal for hours of fatigue-free motoring.

For the price conscious, there are two offerings of the Standard variants.

Powered by the immensely-capable 1.9-litre engine that produces a hefty 150PS of power and 350Nm of torque is paired either with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, the Standard models are a boon for the business community who aim to lower running costs and maintain good efficiency.

Also available will be two Single Cab variants offered with either the 1.9-litre or 3.0-litre engines.

Powerful new 3.0-litre engine.
Powerful new 3.0-litre engine.


These go-anywhere, do-anything pick-up trucks offer significant carrying capabilities and come with an array of safety features that has earned the entire range of D-Max a 5-star Asean NCAP safety rating.

The X-Terrain comes exclusively in Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue while other variants share a choice of the colours including Silky White Pearl, Mercury Silver, Onyx Black and Splash White.

All D-Max models enjoy a five-year or 150,000km warranty while the X-Terrain enjoys a class-leading seven-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Isuzu Malaysia Light Commercial Vehicle Division COO Masayuki Suzuki said the all-new D-Max has found many new fans in all the markets it had been launched in.

“It appears to be the case here too in Malaysia where we have garnered over 1,000 bookings even before its official launch

“With the strong interest in the all-new D-Max, I believe that our target of 6,400 units this year will be achievable,” Suzuki said.

The all-new D-Max Breaking Boundaries Test Drive Campaign runs until May 31 at authorised Isuzu showrooms where visitors can get to know the remarkable new model up close and there will be exclusive Isuzu merchandise giveaways and a chance to win cash prizes.

Prices of the all-new D-Max on-the-road for private registration without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia are:

● D-Max 1.9L Single Cab (MT) RM88,599.20
● D-Max 3.0L Single Cab (MT) RM95,538.40
● D-Max 1.9L Double Cab Standard(MT) RM99,599.20
● D-Max 1.9L Double Cab Standard (AT) RM106,999.20
● D-Max 1.9L Double Cab Premium (AT) RM121,549.20
● D-Max 3.0L Double Cab Premium (AT) RM128,038.40
● D-Max 3.0L Double Cab X-Terrain RM141,938.40

To know more about the all-new D-Max, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my

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