Joining The Legion Of A Hard-Working Line-Up, Isuzu Presents The New D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L

Proudly preserving the Isuzu DNA, but now as a bold, stylish and advanced vehicle that defies the pick-up truck convention, Isuzu presents the all-new 3rd generation D-Max.

Joining the legion of hard-working Isuzu D-Max is a new variant with a 4x2 drivetrain that comes in the guise of the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L.

Isuzu Malaysia’s chief operating officer, Kenkichi Sogo, commented, “In these challenging times, the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 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 4x2 offering in its class that comes with an automatic transmission.”

First off, the 4x2 variant is an ideal variant that offers lower rolling resistance from its less complex drivetrain, fewer items that require maintenance and lower kerb weight.

Notably, the D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L tips the scales at 1,830 kg, shaving 85 kilograms or the weight of an average adult of the 4x4’s kerb weight.

Performance-wise, based on similar specifications as the D-Max Standard 4x4 1.9L Auto variant, the D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L is juiced by the fantastic new 1.9-litre RZ4E-TC engine.

Said engine produces a healthy 148 hp (150 PS) of power at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1,800 to 2,600 rpm.

This engine that has earned global acclaim for its impressive performance despite its modest displacement transmits its power to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox. 

Moreover, its tune-up ratios are identical to the 4x4 variant and have been carefully matched to exploit the engine’s dynamic performance characteristics. 

In particular, its flat torque delivery and flexible throttle response offers confident performance, be it for cruising on highways or negotiating hilly terrain.

Mounted to the Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform, the new D-Max Auto Plus offers impressive stability and excellent flex resistance, making it a competent vehicle regardless of load.

The standard suspension rating is specified for the double-wishbone set-up in the front and 3-leaf semi-elliptical springs in the rear to afford the variant with superior payload capability. 

For further dynamic performance and sure-footedness, the D-Max Auto Plus is fully equipped with a host of electronic driving aids.

E.g., 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). 

Exterior wise, the Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L inherits the bold and dynamic looks of the third-generation Isuzu D-Max double cab. 

Sporting a stylish and purposeful stance, it exudes a handsome front with a matte grey grille, Bi-LED projector headlights with LED DRLs, and inset fog lamps integrated into the flanks of the bumper.

Being a high-ride model, it sits on a set of stylish 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped with 255/65 R17 HT radials that offer excellent ride and durability.

Offering a clean look, the door handles are body-coloured, allowing the D-Max’s stylish contours to stand out. Practical side steps come as standard equipment together with the bed liner.

Besides that, on the flanks of the cargo box are the ‘4x2 Auto Plus’ decals that differentiate the 4x4 and 4x2 variants. 

Also present is the reverse camera mounted in the tailgate handle and four reverse sensors embedded into the integrated rear bumper.

These offer audible assistance to drivers, but the 4-zone graphic displayed in the instrument panel also indicates the location and distance to obstacles to ease manoeuvring in tight spaces.

All five body colours, including Splash White Solid, Mercury Silver Metallic, Onyx Black Mica, Sapphire Blue Mica and Valencia Orange Metallic, are available for the D-Max Auto Plus. 

Interior wise, the D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L comes with woven texture fabric seats that are both hard-wearing and easy to clean. 

The seats themselves are generously proportioned with ample support for comfort, and the driver’s seat can even be manually adjusted six ways to offer fatigue-free motoring.

Additionally, all seats in the D-Max are designed to offer excellent whiplash protection, while ISOFIX child seat mounts are available for the rear seats.

Plus, all five positions are secured with inertia reel 3-point seatbelts with an audible and visual reminder.

Making each journey a pleasant one, the driver can adjust the steering wheel for rake and distance, and for a more excellent feel, the steering wheel itself is wrapped in leather.

Buttons on the left spoke offer audio and phone controls while the right spoke’s toggle between various MID views in the 4.2-inch colour display centrally located in the instrument panel.

Speaking of which, the instrument panel features an e-LUMAX display that is pleasing to read in all lighting conditions and offers comprehensive information at your fingertips. 

Fixed to the centre console is a generous 7-inch multimedia system with its endless entertainment paired to a 6-speaker set-up.

Complete with touch screen convenience, the infotainment offers many connectivity options, including USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, MirrorLink, Miracast, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.

Furthermore, powering of devices is also convenient with a 12-volt 120W power socket upfront 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 can conveniently hold a mobile phone in place while charging. 

Pricing wise, with its impressively high-level build, safety and comfort features, the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L comes with a price tag of RM 100,999.20 on the road without insurance.

That said, the Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4x2 1.9L is available for booking immediately, with deliveries beginning early November 2021.

Overall, for more information on this model and the rest of the Isuzu D-Max variants, interested customers can visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my.