Isuzu D-Max launched with updates for 2011
Isuzu Malaysia has just introduced its latest round of updates for the D-Max pick-up’s 2011 model. Featuring seven variants in total, the new D-Max features updated design touches and features with the intention of luring the younger and more dynamic crowd into Isuzu showrooms.
Two new colours, Frosty White Solid and Space Black Metallic, joins the existing palette which already has Galaxy Grey Metallic, Mercury Silver Metallic, and Inferno Red Mica, bringing to total choice of colours to five. Up front, the D-Max’s trademark incisor-teeth front grille is maintained, but the bumper now features a new bumper guard with two-tone paint finish and chromed fog lamp bezels.
Further new design touches include re-designed side steps and a new roll bar, which is finished in a light-alloy texture. The six-spoke alloy rims have also been ‘blinged-up’ with a shining finish. Inside, Isuzu has swapped out the previous grey interior for a sportier-looking black trim that covers the dash, door panels, pillars, and headlining. The air-con vents, speaker bezels and gearshift surrounds are now highlighted by shiny bits of chrome.
No mechanical changes have been made, so the same three diesel engines that have served the D-Max faithfully continue to be offered in their unchanged states – the 2.5-litre 4JA1, the 2.5-litre 4JK1 Super Commonrail, and the 3.0-litre 4JJ1 Super Commonrail. Open the hood, and the Super Commonrail variants even greet their owners with new platinum-coloured engine covers.
A total of seven distinct variants are on offer, starting with the 2.5-litre 4×2 version powered by the 78hp / 176Nm 4JA1 engine priced at RM74,273.40 after insurance for private buyers. Moving up, we have the 2.5-litre 4×4 version featuring the newer 4JK1 engine with a more substantial 114hp and 280Nm at its disposal. The 4JK1 model has two trim levels priced at RM83,007.40 and RM89,963.40 respectively. All of the 2.5-litre D-Max variants are equipped with 5-speed manual transmission as standard.
The 3.0-litre model is now offered with the choice of four variants, and consumers have the choice of manual and automatic transmission. Isuzu quotes different outputs for the 2,999cc 4JJ1 engine depending on transmission. Whilst maximum power is rated as 134hp @ 3,400rpm as standard for both, manual versions get less torque than automatic transmission models. Self-shifters make do with 280Nm @ 1,200 – 3,400rpm, in contrast to the 294Nm @ 1,400 – 3,000rpm at the slush-box’s disposal.
Manual versions come standard with 4×4, whilst automatic buyers can choose between 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains. The two 3.0-litre manual versions are priced at RM87,584.60 and RM94,336.60. Meanwhile, for the automatic variants, it’s either RM90,462.60 for the 4×2 model or RM99,296.60 for the 4×4 model.
Against its rivals, the D-Max has never excelled in the power stakes. However, the Isuzu pick-up is noted for its frugal consumption and impressive durability. Isuzu Malaysia enjoys proving this point on a regular basis, and they recently took three units of the D-Max from Bangkok to Malacca, covering 1,501km in a single (76 litre) tank of diesel.
The new 2011 Isuzu D-Max is currently available for viewing at all Isuzu dealers nationwide. Readers seeking more information or for the location of the nearest dealer can log on to www.isuzu.net.my or call 1-300-88-1133.
Pictures: Official Isuzu release.
