Specialist ute distributor Isuzu UTE Australia is celebrating the revealing of the new generation Isuzu D-MAX that recently launched in the Thai market.
Seen for the first time globally at the Thai launch in Bangkok, the revealing of the all new Isuzu D-MAX has presented an exciting new model lineup of the new generation 1-tonne utility.
As a production model, the design and specifications are indicative of what will be on offer when the product reaches Australian shores next year. Timing for the Australian launch is yet to be fixed but scheduled for the second quarter of 2012.
As an entirely new generation vehicle, the Isuzu D-MAX styling and design parts ways from the current model and previously associated competitors.
New IUA Managing Director, Mr Yasuhiro Takeuchi said the news of the new generation D-MAX represented the coming of a new and exciting chapter for IUA and the Isuzu D-MAX brand.
“With growing competition in the dynamic light commercials marketplace we are excited to be bringing this brand new vehicle into showrooms next year”, Mr Takeuchi said.
“I am confident that this vehicle will be well received by the Australian marketplace and will live up to the core values that the Isuzu D-MAX is synonymous with; durability, reliability & economy”.
Exterior & interior highlights
Modern and sleek exterior lines compliment the new bulkier and aggressive on-road stance. The larger exterior dimensions afford a considerable increase in interior space raising occupant comfort levels and improving the rear seat access in crew and space cab models.
A stylish and contemporary dash compliments the interior design. Functional upgrades include increased stowage areas. A new audio system features portable music player connectivity and Bluetooth®.
Powertrain upgrades
Power and torque have both been improved through the technological refinement of Isuzu’s well renowned 3.0L diesel power-plant. The upgraded inline 4-cylinder diesel delivers a peak torque output of 380Nm and peak power output of 130kW. The torque is delivered across a flat curve through a large majority of the rev-range to aid drivability and make ease of towing.
As expected from an Isuzu diesel, it delivers outstanding fuel economy even with the increased power and torque outputs.
An all new automatic transmission offers a refined shift map through 5 speeds. This joins the 5-speed manual in the range.
Chassis Development
A newly developed ladder frame chassis in the D-MAX builds on the engineering successes of the class leading platform. It features a stiffer design with improved cross bracing at the rear, further improving stability while both loaded and while towing. It also ensures long term durability when used regularly in harsh environments.
An increased length wheel base from the current ute body’s 3050mm to 3095mm is now standard across the entire vehicle lineup.
Focus on safety
With a growing importance on occupant safety, the new D-MAX has focused in this area as a top priority.
New side airbags that deploy from the side bolster of the front bucket seats protect the driver and passenger thorax region from side impact forces. Also featured are side curtain airbags to further protect occupants in these situations. A front driver and passenger system complete the array of airbags offered as standard.
Electronic Stability Control is also now fitted as standard.
The new Emergency Brake Assist and Anti-lock Brake System are designed to detect an emergency braking situation during hard application of the brakes. These systems work in unison to slow the vehicle without locking up the wheels and aiding stability. Electronic Brake Distribution further assists by detecting the payload weight and modulating the rear breaking force to compensate.
The exact model lineup and pricing for the Australian market is yet to be finalised but IUA can confirm that the model range will be offered with the single, space and crew cab body options.
“We are very much looking forward to the arrival of the all new D-MAX in showrooms in 2012”, said Paul Vuko, General Manager for Sales and Dealer Operations.
“Combining the renowned Isuzu heritage with the robust new lineup, it is going to be a serious contender in the 1-tonne utility market providing new opportunities to further strengthen the growing Isuzu D-MAX brand in Australia.”