Isuzu D-Max: old vs. new

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (ICP) gave the D-Max pickup truck some major updates not too long ago.

As a result, the nameplate is now seen as a more capable companion not only for those who like to drive big in the city but also who are more than eager to take on spontaneous adventures outside the metro.

On that note, let’s take a look at some of the differences between the old and new Isuzu D-Max.

Exterior

Outside, the old Isuzu D-Max wore a grille with large horizontal slats. It had trims on the front end that looked like fangs, which gave the outgoing model a slightly scary demeanor. It is flanked by headlamps with daytime running lights that look like eye bags, while the fog lamps located below are enclosed in a housing that mimics the design of the grillework.

A set of 18-inch wheels with a Y-spoke design, as well as various claddings slapped on its wheel arches, and robust step boards, highlight the old Isuzu D-Max’s side profile.

To its rear is a solid bed with various tethers for keeping the cargo in place, a heavy-duty tailgate, and rear combination lamps.

Meanwhile, the new Isuzu D-Max packs a more aggressive-looking fascia with a latticework that boasts a mesh-like design. The fang-like trims are gone and are replaced by angled appliques that help create an aerodynamic three-dimensional design for the pickup truck’s fore.

The housing of the fog lamps is also new and makes the refreshed Isuzu D-Max look more modern.

Its sides still have a high beltline as well as rugged appointments that come in the form of cowlings on the wheel wells, durable-looking step boards, and a set of solid 18-inch six-spoke wheels.

At the back is still the strong cargo bed that looks like it can haul anywhere from light to heavy cargo. The taillights are surrounded by black housing.

With a more modern look, we give this round to the new Isuzu D-Max.

Interior

Inside, the old Isuzu D-Max are leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and brown trims on the door cards. It has an instrument cluster with both digital and analog gauges as well as a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

The new Isuzu D-Max still sports leather upholstery but now has a larger digital screen in the instrument panel. Complementing it is an updated infotainment display (measuring 10.1-inches) with off-road-specific features like a clinometer and navigation as well as wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Also, the brown trims have been replaced by black accents and it now has a wireless charging dock.

We appreciate the wealth of technological updated the new Isuzu D-Max has to offer. That said, we give this round to the latest iteration of the pickup truck.

Performance

The old Isuzu D-Max packed a 3.0-liter Blue Power diesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shifting. It produced a maximum of 187 horsepower with 450 Newton-meters of torque.

A smaller 2.0-liter engine variant was also available.

The same powertrain options have been carried over to the new Isuzu D-Max allowing it to dish out similar power figures. However, the new model gets a new differential lock system and new Rough Terrain Mode.

IPC’s move to slap the updated Isuzu D-Max with the latter additions is aimed at recapturing local 4x4 enthusiasts and providing them with a capable vehicle that can brave most of the unpaved routes the country has to offer.

With better capabilities, it’s easy to see why many car buyers will probably side with the new Isuzu D-Max. That said, we give the new model this round.

Final thoughts

The updated Isuzu D-Max definitely has a lot more to offer than its predecessor. And while it retained its powertrain, its updates make it a more capable pickup truck for both hauling cargo in the metro as well as conquering different terrains in provincial settings.

The new Isuzu D-Max is offered in 12 variants and is priced from P938,000-P1.945 million.

Photos from Ruben Manahan IV, Juan Paulo Papa, Hazel Nicole Carreon, and Cesar Guiderone Miguel

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