/Autoworld.com/ Hot on the heels of Holden's
all-new Colorado, the new-generation Isuzu D-MAX boasts a bigger, bolder new
design, more features including six airbags and Bluetooth connectivity and a
more powerful 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine.
In line with the improved specification list is an increase in pricing across
the D-MAX range. When the Thai-built range goes on sale on July 2, 22
configurations will be offered across single-cab, space-cab and crew cab body
styles, five trim levels, 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains and low and high-ride chassis
variants.
Pricing kicks off $2100 higher than previously at $27,200 (not including on-road
and dealer costs) for the entry-level 4x2 single cab chassis SX manual. At the
top of the D-MAX range sits the $51,700 4x4 crew cab LS-Terrain auto.
Though it shares its chassis with the new Holden, the new D-MAX uses different
mechanicals. Isuzu will continue with the solitary engine option Down Under -- a
3.0-litre, four-cylinder common rail turbodiesel which is now rated at 130kW at
3600rpm and 380Nm at 1800rpm (up from the previous 120kW/360Nm, or 333Nm with
auto).
The Euro4-compliant engine is also more fuel-efficient than its predecessor with
official combined fuel consumption of 8.0-8.3L/100km (depending on
configuration).
There’s a new five speed manual transmission or buyers can opt for a new
five-speed automatic (a $2200 option) with hill descent and hill ascent modes.
The latter replaces the old four-speed unit.
Four-wheel drive versions also benefit from a new Terrain Command system which
allows on-the-fly, 2WD to 4WD selection at speeds up to 100km/h.
Jointly developed by Isuzu and General-Motors, the D-MAX shares a longer and
significantly stiffer chassis with the new Holden Colorado, but the two utes
have more differentiation than before.
Externally, a chrome-laden fascia, sleek, more aerodynamic lines and LED brake
lights contribute to D-MAX’s "new bulkier and aggressive on-road stance", as
does the wider track and increase in wheelbase (to 3095mm) and overall length
(5295mm on LS-U crew cab).
Inside, the larger dimensions translate to increased cabin space across all body
styles while new seating with ‘wrap around’ bolsters deliver more comfort to
occupants, says Isuzu.
With the upgraded safety package extending to six airbags, antilock brakes,
electronic stability control and traction control (and a reversing camera on the
top-spec LS-T), Isuzu will be hoping the new D-MAX achieves the maximum five
ANCAP stars when it’s tested. The outgoing model scored just three ANCAP stars.
Isuzu also claims improvements to ride and handling, thanks partially to new
Flex-Ride suspension geometry for the independent coil spring, double wishbone
front/leaf-spring, live axle rear set-up.
Other comfort features include air-conditioning and audio system with iPod and
Bluetooth connectivity, while a roof-mounted surround sound system and
multimedia touchscreen display with sat nav will be available on some variants.
A competitive 3.0 tonne braked towing capacity (on 4x4 versions) and one tonne
payload across the range completes the classy workhorse package.
The new D-MAX is the latest in a raft of new or updated one-tonne ute models to
arrive on our shores. In its home Thai market D-MAX boasts around 40 per cent
market but in Australia the Isuzu ute currently holds less than five per cent.
Visit motoring.com.au again soon for our full launch review of the new Isuzu
D-MAX.
