Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 Introduced In Malaysia As Affordable Option

New to the range of third generation Isuzu D-Max pick-up trucks in Malaysia is the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L. Using a 4×2 drivetrain, it is targeted at pick-up truck buyers who do not need a 4×4 system. According to Isuzu Malaysia, only about 28% of pick-up users in Malaysia frequently use the 4×4 system, as the majority drive in urban settings. Although 4x4s are useful, the 4×2 drivetrain also has advantages including a lower kerb weight, lower rolling resistance due to the less complex drivetrain that would help in fuel economy, as well as having fewer items that require maintenance.

By omitting the transfer case, front differential and ancillary drive system, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L tips the scales at 1,830 kg, which is a 85 kg reduction, or about the weight of an average sized adult.

“In these challenging times, the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L brings a new level of relief by offering affordability and capability in a well-appointed and stylish package. This new D-Max variant that we are introducing today will be the sole 4×2 offering in its class that comes with an automatic transmission, ” said Kenkichi Sogo, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia.

Based on similar specifications as the D-Max Standard 4×4 1.9L Auto variant, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L is powered by the new 1.9L RZ4E-TC. Currently the smallest pick-up diesel engine by volume, it is by no means a slouch as it produces a healthy 150 PS @ 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque between 1,800 – 2,600 rpm. This revolutionary engine has earned global acclaim for its impressive performance despite its modest displacement.

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox, with ratios that are identical to the 4×4 variant and have been carefully matched to optimise the engine’s dynamic performance characteristics. In particular, its flat torque delivery and flexible throttle response offers confident performance while cruising on highways or negotiating hilly terrain.

Mounted to the Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform, the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L offers impressive stability and excellent flex resistance, making it a very capable vehicle regardless of load. The double wishbone set-up up in front and 3-leaf semi-elliptical springs in the rear allow the truck to offer superior payload capability. This high-ride model sits on 17″ alloy wheels shod with 255/65 R17 HT radials that offer excellent ride and durability.

Furthermore, the Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L is fitted with driving aids including Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Brake Override System (BOS). Coupled with its well-engineered body structure, this makes it one of the safest pick-up trucks in the market currently; the entire Isuzu D-Max range has a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.

The Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L sports a matte grey grille, Bi-LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs, and inset fog lamps integrated into the flanks of the bumper. The door handles are body coloured to offer a clean look, while the practical side steps come as standard equipment together with the bed liner. There is also a reverse camera mounted in the tailgate handle of this 4×2 to aid urban mobility and is paired to the 7″ multimedia screen in the dashboard.

Further aiding urban mobility are 4 reverse sensors embedded into the integrated rear bumper. These not only offer audible assistance to drivers, but also a 4-zone graphic displayed in the instrument panel to indicate the location and distance to obstacles.

In the cabin, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L comes with woven-texture fabric seats that are both hard-wearing and easy to clean. The seats are generously-proportioned with ample support for comfort over long periods. Additionally, the driver’s seat can even be manually adjusted six ways to offer fatigue-free motoring. ISOFIX child seat anchors are also available in the rear seats.

The instrument panel features an e-LUMAX display that is both pleasing to read in all lighting conditions and offers comprehensive information at your fingertips. The display can be dimmed to adjust for ambient lighting. Nestled in the centre of the instrument panel is a 4.2″ colour multi-info display. In the centre console sits a 7″ multimedia system with touchscreen. The system is wired to 6 speakers and also offers connectivity via USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, MirrorLink, Miracast, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.

For device charging convenience, there is a 12V 120W power socket in front and a USB port each for front and rear users. The rear port is located above the central air-conditioning vents and a neat receptacle is able to conveniently hold a mobile phone in place while it is charging.

The D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L comes with 5 body colour choices i.e. Splash White Solid, Mercury Silver Metallic, Onyx Black Mica, Sapphire Blue Mica and Valencia Orange Metallic. It has a retail price of RM100,999.20 (on the road without insurance).

It is now available for booking and deliveries are expected to start in early November 2021. For more information on this model and other D-Max variants, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my. You can also make online
requests for a test drive.