Isuzu D-Max: What makes it so desirable?

Isuzu has been making cars for many years now, and the Japanese automaker has got several products in the Philippines. Well, two light commercial, three commercial, and two public utility vehicles. Yes, Isuzu doesn’t have a rich product portfolio, but all of its vehicles (well light commercial, to be specific) are quite popular in the country and sell in commendable numbers. Included in the list are - Isuzu mu-X and Isuzu D-Max, and today we’ll be talking about the latter.

One of the many reasons why is that Isuzu is primarily a commercial vehicle brand, and it knows what people in the segment needs. This is clear in all its offerings. The D-Max is a pickup that has got a lot of strength and a few interesting elements that help it woo in customers. Today, we are going to have a look at what makes the Isuzu D-Max so desirable.

Powerful, rugged exterior

This goes without saying that the Isuzu D-Max is a masculine looking vehicle, as that’s the norm with the segment. However, the fact it is a pickup doesn’t make it dull and boring; instead, it is very smart and stylish. It attracts you using its sharp and sleek headlamp design and bold chrome grille at the front.

The bumper, as expected, looks sportier and houses the stylish fog lamps, overall it gives a lot of character to the pickup. Moving towards the side, the multi-spoke alloy wheels will surely make you halt for a bit to admire them. And the elegant key-colored door handles are always a welcome addition, as are the turn signal integrated ORVMs.

The rear end of the D-Max features a rectangular and bright tail light clusters. They look modern and stylish. Just like the front bumper, the rear one too keeps the things sporty.

Passenger-car like interior

Even though the Isuzu D-Max is a pickup truck, it still manages to provide a good amount of interior comfort to the passengers. The cabin offers sufficient space as well, in fact, the rear-row has plenty of legroom for all to sit comfortably.

Above all this, the D-Max has been engineered in a way to run with minimum noise, which means no matter the road condition, smooth or rough, your ride remains undisturbed. Present at the driver’s arena is the electroluminescent instrument panel that displays the complete info of the D-Max via its multi-info display.

Next up, making things better for the driver is the push start and stop button, and headlamp leveling switch that allows you to adjust the headlamp cut-off line depending on the load easily carried. Making sure you stay always connected is the 8-inch entertainment system that comes with built-in navigation, AUX & USB, Bluetooth functions. Also, on offer are multiple USB ports that’ll ensure working and connected devices on the go. What truly gives away the pickup truck deal is the soft pad leather accents and armrest that completes the D-Max smart interior.

Fulfilling its virtue as a pickup, the Isuzu D-Max has a big cargo bed that measures 1,485 in length, 1,530 mm in width, and 465 m in height. There are several storage areas in the pickup, fifteen compartments, and ten cup holders to be specific.

Thought & fuel-efficient

The Isuzu D-Max comes from a long line of reliable and tough trucks, year’s worth of experience and knowledge has gone in to built this pickup. And with innovation being a constant part of the process, Isuzu D-Max now comes with RZ4E engine that is powerful but fuel-efficient as well.

 

The Philippines-spec model is available in six variants and two engine options. And what engines are that? Browse through the Isuzu D-Max specs and you’ll find that the two range-topping trims are powered by an RZ4E-TC 1,898cc engine which has been tuned to churn out a maximum power of 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and generate 350 Nm of peak torque from 1,800 to 2,600 rpm. Rest all trims get a 2,999 cc 4-cylinder in-line Blue Power diesel unit offering 177 PS at 3,600 rpm and 380 Nm at 1,800 to 2,800 rpm. There are two transmission options - a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic unit.

Safety features

Pickups need to be tough and not vulnerable. That’s what Isuzu believes, and customers want. The D-Max has got a 4-star ASEAN NCAP rating for its safety and security profile. It goes without saying that this rating has been made possible by incorporating excellent safety features.

The D-Max comes with ABS with EBD and BA. There are SRS dual airbags for the front passenger and driver. There is also Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Traction Control, Brake Override System and Electronic Stability Control.

Isuzu has clearly shown everyone that making a light commercial look stylish along with good interiors, a fuel-efficient engine, and excellent safety rating is possible. And that too at an affordable price. Talking about price, the Isuzu D-Max price range starts from Php 987,000 and goes all the way to Php 1,700,000.

Let us know your favorite feature of the Isuzu D-Max that makes it a desirable choice for you.

Also Read:- All-new Isuzu D-Max to make its way out on October 11