Under The Spotlight: Finally, The Isuzu D-Max

(Overseas Model Shown)

Two (2) years after the global debut of the Isuzu D-Max in Thailand, the second generation model has finally arrived in the Philippines. Bigger in every aspect, and looking more fluid and modern, the Isuzu D-Max promises to retain it’s sporty image it has kept along in it’s entire life. Bulging wheel arches provide a powerful and wide stance, while the projector halogen headlamps and bigger grille make the car have a greater road presence.

The D-Max is powered by the familiar 4JJ1-TC 3.0 liter CRDI engine that produces 144 hp and 294 Nm of torque, and a new 4JK1-TC 2.5 liter CRDI engine. In case you are wondering, no, the D-Max’s engine still does not have Variable Geometry Turbo, or VGT, in which the vast majority of its competitors already have. This is because, the AJJ1-TCX 3.0 liter CRDI engine, which produces 177 hp and 380 Nm of torque, has an emission rating of Euro 5, and, well, our diesels aren’t exactly compatible with the new VGT engine. This means that, the engines in our Isuzu D-Max pick ups are still Euro 2. Power is delivered through the rear or all wheels, via a 5-Speed Manual transmission, or a new 5-Speed Automatic with tiptronic shifting, enabling to you manually shift the vehicle.

(Overseas Model Shown)

Being developed alongside the Chevrolet Colorado and the Trailblazer, it won’t be a coincidence if the D-Max’s interior is similar from the aforementioned vehicles, albeit in different color schemes and gauge clusters. New features to further strengthen its workhorse image include a high ground clearance of up to 235 mm, a more rigid body and bed, enabling the D-Max to sustain heavier than ever beating in the natural environment, and a new 4WD Terrain Command Select knob, eliminating the need for another shift knob for the 4WD system, therefore clearing up space in the cabin. The 4WD Terrain Command Select system lets you change to different drivetrain modes, from 2WD (RWD) to 4WD, even while on the move at speeds of up to 100 km/h.

Other features of note are the brake assist system, LED turn signals on the side mirrors, LED tail lights, 6-way power adjustable driver seat, and a premium audio system with AUX, CD, and USB.

Here are the prices of the different variants of the Isuzu D-Max.

4×2 Single Cab: P697,000

4×2 LT 5-MT: P857,000

4×2 LS 5-MT: P1,144,000

4×4 LT 5-MT: P1,153,000

4×2 LS 5-AT: P1,196,000

4×4 LS 5-MT: 1,398,000

4×4 LS 5-AT: 1,457,000

For more information, visit the official website of Isuzu Philippines.