KNOWN for its robust construction, strong suspension and powerful drivetrain, Isuzu’s ubiquitous workhorse, the D-Max pickup has, for the last sixteen years, gone to eight iterations and two generations of changes since it was first launched in 2003.
Last week Isuzu rolled out it’s a more premium variant called the D-Max LS-A.
What distinguishes this variant from its utilitarian workhorse cousins is mostly found inside. A higher level of comfort and convenience is provided by the auto-climate control air conditioning system, passive entry and push start-stop system, 12V accessory socket, three USB charging ports, 15 storage compartments and 10 cup holders. This aside from the updates to the exterior styling including the very dark gray front grille and bumper, coupled with side step board and rocker panel, cargo extender and roof rails.
“Introduced in 2003, the Isuzu D-Max pick-up has sold more than 46,000 units so far and continues to be one of the country’s most popular pick-up models for its durability, fuel efficiency, and overall value for money,” IPC President Hajime Koso said as he pointed out how the new Isuzu joins the ranks of premium pick-ups with its stylish yet functional design and competitive pricing.
“All that without compromising the D-Max’s core value of being ‘Tough Enough for Anything,” Koso added.
At the heart of the D-Max LS-A is the powerful and fuel-efficient 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-liter 4-cylinder In-line Blue Power Diesel engine with VGS turbo intercooler that generates 177 PS maximum power and 380 Nm maximum torque.
Initially available in 4×4 variant, IPC did mention that it will also be offered in 4×2 variants in the coming months, both variants will have an option for either 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift or the 6-speed manual transmission with gear shift indicator.
“The first vehicle Isuzu produced in the market in 1922 was a pick-up truck, taking note of our expertise on the product and most especially on diesel engine technology,” Hirokazu Okubo, Isuzu Motors Limited Executive Officer said as he traced Isuzu’s experience with the pickup design to nearly a century back. This heritage includes producing such icons as the Isuzu Luv–a global pickup platform that set the stage for the current D-Max which in manufactured and sells in many countries.
“Worldwide, the Isuzu D-Max is trusted in countries like Thailand, Australia, and the United Kingdom, certainly because of its design and functionality that have gone through rigorous testing and development. The new Isuzu D-Max LS-A variant will be a great addition to the very competitive local pick-up truck market,” Okubo confirmed.
Colors for the new pick up are Cosmic Black, Sapphire Blue, Titanium Silver, Red Spinel, Splash White, Silky Pearl White.
Immediately before the launch of the upgraded pickup, Isuzu also launched the Bondoock version of the D-Max designed for the unpaved roads of rural Philippines. — GEB
