Isuzu PH spruces up D-Max

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has updated the D-Max.

The latest iteration of the Japanese pick-up truck, which has been around since 2003, is said to become a game-changer in the segment with its performance, reliability, and technological features.

Per IPC, the new D-Max’s five-point advantage is designed to address the demands of modern pick-up truck buyers.

As reported earlier, the refreshed Isuzu D-Max has a more aggressively-look front fascia, thanks to its three-dimensional front grille design. The said portion has a gun-metal and black chrome finish flanked by the new headlamps and redesigned daytime running lights.

Completing the overall look are the revised fog lamps with air curtains that improves aesthetics and the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

Other exterior updates are the new Cargo Sail bed accessory, 18-inch all-terrain alloy wheels matte dark gray metallic finish, and new triple-wing LED rear combination lamps.

For its cabin, the new Isuzu D-Max features a new digital pattern “Miura” that exudes a clean and solid structure.

A slew of comfort and convenience features such as the wireless charger, second-row air-conditioning vents, new seven-inch digital cluster gauge, and new infotainment system (available in 10.1-inch and nine-inch variations) that is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Meanwhile, the new Isuzu D-Max is also equipped with a host of advanced driver assistive technologies like the Gen4 Smart Duo Cam with enhanced field of view both horizontally and vertically to boost its accident-avoidance capabilities.

In addition, the vehicle is now fitted with a 360-degree around view monitor, new rear cross traffic brake and a built-in digital video recorder.

Powering most of the new Isuzu D-Max trims is still the 4JJ3-TCX Blue Power engine that can provide as much as 187 horses (hp) and 459 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque and the fuel efficient RZ4E mill that can provide a peak churn of 148 hp and 350 Nm.

Aiming to recapture the local 4x4 enthusiasts, the new Isuzu D-Max now has a new Differential Lock system and new Rough Terrain Mode, as IPC aims to recapture the hardcore 4x4 enthusiasts, making the vehicle capable of tackling challenging terrains across the country.

IPC has also expanded the new Isuzu D-Max lineup as it introduced the 4x2 LS-E AT. According to the Japanese automaker’s local distributor, the newly-launch variation has been highly-requested by its customers.

Further, the D-Max is also offering two options under the LS-A variation, the regular and LS-A Plus. The former is outfitted with a nine-inch infotainment system, while the latter boasts a 10-inch infotainment system, with 360-degree around view monitor and digital video recorder.

Pricing, color options

Offered in the Namibu Orange (which is the model’s hero color), new Biarritz Blue (limited to the range-topping LS-E variant), Onyx Black, Islay Gray, Satin Pearl White, and Splash White, the new Isuzu D-Max can be had at the following prices:

Variant Family​	Specific trim​	Retail price​
D-Max LS-E​	3.0 4x4 LS-E AT​	P1.945 million
	3.0 4x2 LS-E AT​	P1.695 million
D-Max LS-A​	3.0 4x4 LS-A MT Plus​	P1.75 million
	3.0 4x4 LS-A MT​	P1.71 million
	3.0 4x2 LS-A AT Plus​	P1.51 million
	3.0 4x2 LS-A AT​	P1.47 million
	3.0 4x2 LS-A MT Plus​	P1.44 million
	3.0 4x2 LS-A MT​	P1.4 million
D-Max LT​	3.0 4x4 LT MT​	P1.299 million​
	RZ4E 4x2 LT MT​	P1.048 million
D-Max Single Cab​	3.0 4x4 Single Cab MT​	P1.178 million
	RZ4E 4x2 Single Cab MT​	P938,000

The said pricing, reflects a slight bump over the previous iteration, which ranges from P917,000-P1.905 million only.

“Over the years, we have continuously introduced numerous advancements to the D-MAX, all the while ensuring that it remains true to its core values, whilst evolving to meet the needs and desires of our customers. This latest evolution is the product of listening to the feedback of our customers and dealers, integrating their insights into the design and functionality of this new model,” IPC President Tetsuya Fujita said.

Isuzu 4x4 Action Playground

Aside from the official launch, IPC is also bringing back the Isuzu 4x4 Action Playground — its specially-designed test course that will help highlight the capabilities of the new D-Max.

The said course has seven challenging stations namely the Rough Terrain Roller, Articulated Ramps, Side Camber, Road Grinder, Chicane, Forward Collision Wall, and the crowd-favorite Hydraulic Ramp.

Customers can have an up-close look at the new Isuzu D-Max capabilities as it maneuvers inside the special track, which will have it kick off at the SM Mall of Asia starting today until June 23.

The Isuzu 4x4 Action Playground will then have a nationwide tour — going to SM Cebu Seaside on July 5-7 and SM Lanang Davao come July 26-28.

Photos from Ruben Manahan IV

Also read:

Isuzu to launch D-Max BEV

Isuzu PH unleashes D-Max Limited, priced at P1.58 million

Isuzu PH refreshes D-Max