2024 Isuzu D-Max & MU-X Gain New MHEV Diesel Engine in Thailand

The Thai-spec Isuzu D-Max and MU-X are now offered with a new 2.2-litre diesel mild-hybrid powertrain option.

It is no secret that Isuzu is in the midst of developing a fully electric version of the D-Max midsize pick-up truck, which is slated to be unveiled later in 2025. Before that happens, the Japanese truck maker has introduced a semi-electrified variant for both said pick-up truck and its closely-related SUV twin, the MU-X, in Thailand, featuring its new diesel mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain setup.

Cordially known as the 2.2 Ddi MaxForce, this new diesel MHEV setup comprises a 2.2-litre 4-cyl turbodiesel engine (codenamed RZ4F) that produces 161 HP and 400 NM and is mated to a new 8-speed conventional automatic transmission. Although Isuzu did not disclose any details about the 48-volt electric motor setup mated to this engine, the automaker promises that this new setup will offer 56% more torque at startup plus 10% more efficiency compared to its non-electrified diesel counterpart.

On the power scale, this new diesel MHEV powertrain is slotted in the middle between the other two engine options offered to both the D-Max and MU-X. For reference, the baseline 1.9-litre 4-cyl turbodiesel mill is rated at 148 HP, while the flagship 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbodiesel unit is capped higher at 187 HP.

The electrified versions of the Isuzu D-Max and MU-X are slated to hit the Thai market later on Nov 28, with prices ranging from THB 595,000 to THB 937,000 (RM76,834 - RM120,998) for the pick-up, and from THB 1.194 million (RM154,186) onwards for the SUV. Beyond the Thai market, there’s no news yet on the availability of these MHEV diesel models, although it is easy to presume that they will be made available in popular midsize pick-up truck markets like Australia, South Africa, and potentially Malaysia, too.

Besides Isuzu, the midsize pick-up truck segment has welcomed several electrified newcomers into the foray, including the Toyota Hilux MHEV and the Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid (PHEV), to name a few.