2023 Isuzu D-Max now available in Malaysia

MANILA: Isuzu Malaysia has officially launched the 2023 Isuzu D-Max.

For model year 2023, the Isuzu D-Max has undergone a number of upgrades, giving the hugely popular pickup truck a much-needed boost to maintain its appeal and solidify its place as one of the best-selling trucks in Malaysia.

“The Isuzu D-Max has made tremendous inroads by being a highly innovative, sophisticated, safe and capable truck wrapped in a very handsome and modern design package. For 2023, we have taken it up a notch with a number of enhancements that will increase its appeal,” Isuzu Malaysia Chief Executive Officer Shunsuke Okazoe stated.

The most notable change on the Isuzu D-Max is the addition of new body colors for the X-Terrain and Premium models, including a new Islay Gray Mica that gives the vehicle a more stylish and modern appearance. Dolomite White Pearl, a new shade of white that delivers a more lustrous finish than the previous Silky Pearl White, is another exterior color option available for both variants. The Sapphire Blue has been replaced with the more vibrant Biarritz Blue Metallic, which is primarily offered with the Automatic Premium, Auto Plus, and Automatic Standard variants.

A new radiator grille, rims, and some redesigned body accents enhance the sporty and dynamic appearance of the Isuzu D-Max.

The Auto Plus and Standard variants of the 2023 Isuzu D-Max are fitted with 17-inch six-spoke wheels in silver, while the X-Terrain and Premium variants are equipped with 18-inch six-spoke wheels in dark finish.

The X-Terrain and Premium variants are also designed with new combination tail lamp housings. 

Other X-Terrain-exclusive exterior design elements include dark gray finish roof rails, tailgate handles, door mirror, front bumper, overfenders, and side steps, and lower bumper garnish.

On the inside, the seats feature a new design and are upholstered in chic black. The new seats give a stark contrast to the new Cafe Brown finish on many of the soft-touch surfaces of the X-Terrain variant.

The 2023 Isuzu D-Max is equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. A 360-degree vehicle surround view can also be shown on the touch display by simply pressing the AVM button.

The X-Terrain variant also features ambient lighting added to the footwell. The blue hue not only makes it easier for passengers to get in and out, but also gives the 2023 Isuzu D-Max a more upscale look.

The X-Terrain, Premium, and Auto Plus variants also come with an upgraded wireless charger with 15W output for more convenience and faster recharging times. Moreover, the X-Terrain and Premium variants are equipped with an USB-C port for quick charging.

The 2023 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain is also equipped with a Digital Video Recorder that can capture clear video from class-leading front and rear cameras. The front camera, which is positioned neatly in the ADAS (advanced driver-assistance system) module, captures amazingly clear 1440P videos, while the rear camera records in high-definition 1080P. Video recordings can be saved to the onboard memory card and downloaded to a phone through a mobile app.

The powertrain options for the 2023 Isuzu D-Max include a 3.0L inline-four cylinder VGS turbo diesel engine and a 1.9L inline-four cylinder VGS turbo diesel engine.

The 3.0L engine produces 190ps of power at 3,600rpm and 450Nm of torque from 1,600rpm to 2,600rpm. Meanwhile, the 1.9L engine delivers 150ps of power at 3,600rpm and 350Nm of torque from 1,800rpm to 2,600rpm.

The engines are mated to either a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift or a six-speed manual transmission, depending on the variant.

All 4x4 variants of the 2023 Isuzu D-Max have the option of an electronically-actuated rear differential lock. The Diff Lock gives the driver confidence and peace of mind when off-roading because it adds traction, especially on rocky or extremely slippery surfaces.

The 3.0L Premium Automatic variant of the 2023 Isuzu D-Max gets a reworked suspension setup configured to handle larger payloads, increasing from 580kg to 775kg, making it remarkably suitable for the needs of users, particularly in East Malaysia. Additional new features include a remote keyless entry access and a 12V power socket for the Single Cab variant.

To ensure safety at all times, the 2023 Isuzu D-Max comes with two airbags for the driver and front passenger, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) with brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, hill descent control, brake override, emergency stop signal, seat belt reminder for all seats, and rear differential lock.

Blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert are also standard on Premium and higher variants.

The 2023 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain variant is also equipped with seven airbags and a full suite of ADAS which includes forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), turn assist, pedal misapplication mitigation, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beam, lane departure warning, manual speed limiter, and multi-collision brake.

“Most of the updates made to this year’s Isuzu D-Max have been the result of the close collaboration between Isuzu and its dealers. Through an intimate understanding of our customers’ requirements, we are able to effect timely enhancements that meet the needs and desires of Isuzu D-Max users,” Isuzu Malaysia Chief Operating Officer Kenkichi Sogo said.

Pricing for the 2023 Isuzu D-Max ranges from RM94,949 to RM150,938 (approximately P1.1 million to P1.8 million).

Photos from Isuzu

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