Isuzu Malaysia Expects Record Year Due To Pick Up In Demand For D-Max
As demand for its D-Max pickup truck picks up, Isuzu Malaysia is expecting to set a new sales record this year. In the past 6 months (Jan – Jun), Isuzu saw 4,237 new registrations for the D-Max. This is a 143% jump over the same period in 2021. Incidentally, this half-year performance is only slightly below the sales achievement for all of 2021 (4,601 vehicles).
The Isuzu D-Max was introduced with updated and extra features for the range-topping X-Terrain variant recently in June. Thus, the company is expecting interest in its flagship pickup to climb. “Since the introduction of the all-new Isuzu D-Max, we have seen a growing interest in pick-up truck usage, particularly from first-time buyers and upgraders who have been impressed by the way the new D-Max has blurred the lines between a tough and capable pick-up truck and the comfort and sophistication of a family saloon,” said Isuzu Malaysia Chief Executive Officer, Shunsuke Okazoe.
With this 3rd generation D-Max, the Japanese truck brand had redefined the way pickup trucks look, feel and perform. From its hard-working Single Cab model to the sophisticated and feature-packed top-of-the-line X-Terrain variant, Isuzu has been able to engineer greater capabilities into its trucks while refining the comfort, safety levels as well as driving pleasure.
Significantly, the introduction of the 1.9L Blue Power engine to the D-Max line-up increased the pickup’s popularity. With its remarkable engine performance, great fuel efficiency, strong reliability, and the lowest road tax in the market, the 1.9L variants have become the most popular choice among Malaysian buyers, making up nearly 80% of Isuzu’s total sales.
Meanwhile, the flagship D-Max X-Terrain makes up about 10% of total sales volume. This is still a significant achievement for Isuzu, considering that it has never had a strong offering within the lifestyle segment as it used to mainly focus on providing dependable workhorses.
However, Isuzu now has a strong contender in the lifestyle segment that offers premium comfort, refinement as well as safety features in a desirable package. “The X-Terrain has gained a strong following particularly among urban users. Many have found the vehicle to be the ideal extension of their lifestyle activities offering the ideal balance of space, capability, comfort and safety. With the recent updates made to the X-Terrain including the new colours, welcome light, scuff plates, wireless Qi charger and Around View Monitor, it is even more desirable vehicle that allows owners to do more without boundaries,” added Chief Operating Officer, Kenkichi Sogo.
The Isuzu D-Max is the brand’s sole passenger / non-commercial vehicle offering and comes in 8 variants to suit different needs and budgets. Most of the range offers 4×4 capability, with a sole 4×2 automatic variant available, to provide long-distance travellers and urban users the flexibility and versatility while enjoying lower running costs.
To find out more about the Isuzu D-Max, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my or https://www.facebook.com/ISUZU.DMax.Malaysia/.
