New Isuzu D-Max launched in South Africa – Pricing and specifications

The new Isuzu D-Max has landed in South Africa at a starting price of R401,700 for the single cab, R433,600 for the extended cab, and R498,900 for the double cab.

The bakkie is available in 24 individual specifications spanning 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains, manual and automatic transmissions, two engine options, and five trim levels – as well as one chassis cab derivative.

The new D-Max is completely redesigned with the bonnet and load area heightened by 15mm and 30mm, respectively, the wheelbase extended by 30mm, and the roofline lowered by 10mm.

The load box was also lengthened by 15mm and given an extra 30mm of depth, and double cab variants further get longer rear doors thanks to the B-pillar being moved 25mm forwards.

Additionally, the new Isuzu brings a more aggressive front fascia flanked by angular headlights with daytime running lights.

Specifications

The new Isuzu D-Max is available in Standard, L, LS, LSE, and V-Cross specifications, with the “high series models” aiming for a passenger-car-like cabin.

Overall interior space is increased with more rear legroom, and a wider range of seat adjustment and smaller diameter steering wheel with telescopic adjustment enhances driver comfort, said Isuzu.

In Standard guise, buyers of the new D-Max get a radio with a CD player and Bluetooth, manual airconditioning, a 4.2-inch multi-information driver’s display, dual front airbags, ABS with brake assist, and steel wheels.

The L trim gains an anti-theft alarm, electric windows, a multifunction steering wheel, as well as ISOFIX child seat anchors in the Double Cab body styles.

Added to this on the LS specification are 17-inch alloys, cruise control, daytime running lights, a rear-view camera, USB ports, a 7-inch infotainment system with Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, six speakers, black side steps, and seven airbags.

The LSE then sees upgraded 18-inch wheels with tyre pressure monitoring, a 9-inch display with eight speakers, keyless entry and start, all-round LED lights, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, a tow bar, roof rails, and a chrome sports bar in the load box.

At the top of the range sits the V-Cross model offering leather upholstery, electric front seats, automatic high-beam bi-LED headlights, gun metallic exterior finishes, and eight airbags.

This model also gets Isuzu’s Advanced Driver Assist System as standard incorporating front collision warnings, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and prevention, lane keep assist, blind-spot assist, rear cross-traffic alert, parking aid, and a multi-collision braking system.

Engines

The new D-Max is available with an assortment of powertrains consisting of two diesel engines, 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, and six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions.

The 1.9-litre motor generates 110kW and 350Nm, “delivering superb fuel economy and low running costs,” said Isuzu.

The larger 3.0-litre unit puts out 140kW and 450Nm, and has been “optimised for more torque at lower engine speeds, superior pull off and acceleration, significantly reduced noise levels, and optimised consumption.”

Range at a glance

Isuzu provided the following helpful explanation for its extensive new line-up of bakkies.

“There are five Single Cab derivatives, all featuring the 1.9 Ddi engine, and available in Standard and L specification levels.”

“Two of these are available with the six-speed automatic transmission and there are two 4×4 models. There is also a Chassis Cab derivative for commercial customers aiming to outfit the vehicle according to their specific business requirements.”

“The Extended Cab is available in six derivatives in Standard and LS spec, matched to the 1.9 Ddi engine. The LSE models are paired with the 3.0 Ddi engine and automatic transmission, in 4×2 or 4×4.”

“With 11 models in the line-up, the Double Cab offering is extensive. Covering all specification grades, five of these make use of the 1.9-litre engine in L and LS models, and a choice of manual or auto, and two or four-wheel drive.”

“Customers opting for the 3.0 Ddi engine can select LS, LSE, or V-Cross specifications. A single manual derivative is available in the LS model, with the rest equipped with the six-speed automatic and either 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains.”