Title: Isuzu D-Max Receives Major Facelift with Impressive Upgrades for Australian Market
Subtitle: The much-anticipated update brings a bold new look and enhanced interior to the popular Isuzu D-Max ute.
Date: October 7, 2023 – 1 PM
Byline: Alex Misoyannis, Contributing Journalist
Word Count: 1,078
Introduction:
Isuzu has recently unveiled the highly-anticipated facelift for its popular D-Max ute in Thailand. The third best-selling ute in Australia, behind the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, the updated Isuzu D-Max features a bold new design and improved interior. Australian customers can expect the new model to arrive in showrooms either late this year or early next year. With long wait times for the current model, those who have placed orders may even receive the newer version. Isuzu Ute Australia has yet to announce pricing, but existing orders are likely to be “price-protected.”
Exterior Upgrades:
The updated Isuzu D-Max showcases a redesigned front fascia with an aggressive grille, particularly in higher-end models, finished in black. The headlights have also been reshaped, and there are revised taillight signatures with three extruded elements. The range now includes new wheel designs, and the X-Terrain variant will feature a new matte paint finish. Additionally, flared wheel arches have been added to enhance the overall appearance of the vehicle.
Interior Enhancements:
Inside the cabin, the updated D-Max features an improved 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system in higher-end models, while cheaper models will have a 7.0-inch screen. The volume and radio tuning buttons have been replaced by user-friendly dials, aimed at minimizing driver distractions. However, the physical buttons for home, phone controls, and other functions have been replaced by touch-sensitive controls. Wireless Android Auto connectivity is now available, while both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay options are offered. The instrument cluster now includes a new, larger 7.0-inch digital display, providing drivers with crucial information at a glance. USB-C ports have replaced USB-A plugs, and a new brown and black seat upholstery color combination is available in Thai models.
Powertrain and Safety Features:
No powertrain updates have been incorporated into the D-Max. It will continue to offer a choice between a 1.9-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine with 110 kW and 350 Nm, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine. Both engines will be coupled with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, with the automatic variant now featuring paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Speculations suggest that a new 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, with improved fuel economy, may replace the existing engines in 2025. Notably, Isuzu has confirmed plans to release an electric D-Max in 2025, with an initial launch in Norway, followed by other markets, including Thailand and Australia.
Market Competition:
The Isuzu D-Max currently ranks sixth outright in the 2023 new car sales race, and is the third best-selling ute, trailing the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger. With the arrival of new rivals in the coming years, including the Mitsubishi Triton in 2024, the Nissan Navara in 2025, the new Toyota HiLux in 2025, the new LDV T60 in 2025, and the Kia Tasman in 2025, the updated D-Max is expected to maintain its competitiveness. The introduction of the new Ford Ranger, along with its twin, the Volkswagen Amarok, has further intensified market competition.
Conclusion:
The Isuzu D-Max has received an impressive facelift, featuring a bold new design and enhanced interior. As the third best-selling ute in Australia, this update aims to keep the D-Max competitive amidst a wave of new rivals entering the market in the coming years. The updated model will likely arrive in Australian showrooms late this year or early next year. Isuzu Ute Australia has yet to disclose pricing details, but existing orders are likely to be unaffected by possible price increases. With no significant powertrain changes, Isuzu is expected to introduce a new engine in 2025 for improved fuel efficiency. Furthermore, Isuzu plans to introduce an electric D-Max in 2025, making it a key player in the electric vehicle space.
