All-new Isuzu D-Max arriving soon

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Auto Trader NZ
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Published 10 July 2020

All-new Isuzu D-Max arriving soon

For the first time in eight years the Isuzu D-Max has undergone a full model change, and will arrive in Isuzu Utes dealerships mid October 2020. View all available Isuzu D-Max vehicles on Auto Trader.

Customers that want to secure theirs now are able to place their order on the Isuzu Utes New Zealand website with a $500 deposit or through their local Isuzu dealer.

The new-generation of Isuzu’s one-tonne ute features premium-levels of refinement, technology and practical enhancements, yet retains the reputed durability and ruggedness that has cemented the D-Max as one of New Zealand’s top-selling utes.

“It’s a very exciting time for Isuzu with the introduction of the all-new D-Max, a model that has been worth the wait.  There’s a whole lot more to this ute, whilst retaining its toughness and durability. With new active safety, greater power and torque, even more off road ability, plus enhanced technology and improved driver comfort, the all-new D-Max is ruggedly refined,” says Isuzu Utes New Zealand General Manager Sam Waller.

“Kiwis not only have the choice of the LX, LS-M and LS, a totally new variant also joins the new-generation of D-Max, the X-Terrain – a higher spec variant.”

Isuzu’s legendary 3L diesel turbo engine has been enhanced producing 10kW more power (now 140kW) and 20Nm more torque (now 450Nm) across a wider rpm range.

Designed from the ground up to handle the toughest terrain, the all-new Isuzu D-Max comes alive off-road. With the introduction of a rear axle differential lock as standard on all 4×4 models, and an extra 200mm wading depth (now 800mm), hill-start assist and improved ground clearance, the model has more offroad ability than its predecessor.

The all-new D-Max raises the standard for the ute segment with a world-class suite of active safety features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collison Warning (FCW), Lane Support System (automatic models only), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind-Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA). These safety features are in addition to a full complement of airbags including a new segment-first front seat centre airbag which protects front occupants in the case of side impacts.

An updated infotainment system, upgraded technology and quality of interior components have increased convenience and improved driver comfort.

Isuzu customers have a lot of choice which it comes to choosing the D-Max fit for their purpose.

Starting the all-new D-Max range is the workhorse LX. Available in three body types (Single Cab, Space Cab, and Double Cab), manual or automatic, 2WD or 4WD. Improvements include a full suite of active safety technology, 7” touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic lights and wipers and even adaptive cruise control for automatic models.

Stepping up to the LS-M available in Double Cab 4WD with automatic or manual transmissions. Improvements include the same as the LX plus LED head lights with LED daytime running lights and 17” alloy wheels and more luxurious interior trim.

A 9” touchscreen with satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, and 18” alloy wheels can be found in the LS.

And for those seeking all the bells and whistles, (and we’re not talking cow bells and dog whistles here) look no further than the range headliner D-Max X-Terrain. The top-spec X-Terrain comes in the Double Cab, 4WD with automatic transmission.

Specifications for the X-Terrain include the active safety technology of the other variants plus a power 8-way driver seat, leather interior trim, smart proximity key with remote engine start, front and rear parking sensors, wheel arch extensions and gun-metal exterior highlights (wheels, grille, mirror caps, door handles and roof rails) as well as a matte black roller tonneau cover and under-rail tray liner

Bolder, wider and distinguished with cues that are unmistakably Isuzu, the all-new D-Max boasts a ruggedly refined demeanour—particularly the flagship X-Terrain model. With larger and deeper rear trays, a longer wheelbase and lean horizontal bodylines, the all-new D-Max is sleeker and more aerodynamically efficient than the preceding D-Max.

Customers have the choice of seven different colour options from Splash White, Mercury Silver Metallic, Obsidian Grey, Onyx Black Metallic, Red Spinel Metallic, Sapphire Blue Metallic and the striking new Valencia Orange Metallic.

With 15 variants available there’s a D-Max fit for everybody’s purpose, and pricing ranges from $49,990 for the LX 2WD through to $75,490 for the top spec X-Terrain model.

Whilst the hotly-anticipated all-new D-Max costs more than its predecessor, the price reflects the inclusion of a more powerful and efficient turbo-diesel engine, upmarket equipment and features, and new safety technology not yet seen in other NZ utes, such as the front seat centre air-bag.

Mr Waller adds, “The all-new D-Max is set to be a stand out performer on or off the road. It’s all you need for any adventure whether that be a family roadie or heading into back country.”

Because the team at Isuzu Utes New Zealand like to be Good Bastards, they are offering exclusive accessory offers and other pre-launch offers on all pre-orders.

To view full specifications and secure your all-new D-Max visit www.isuzuutes.co.nz/newdmax.

NEW 3-LITRE 4JJ3-TCX TURBO DIESEL ENGINE AND DRIVETRAIN

Isuzu engineers have evolved the proven 4JJ1 platform to now produce 140kW at 3,600rpm and 450Nm at 1,600rpm through to 2,600rpm, with the new 4JJ3-TCX sporting a 10kW and 20Nm hike over the preceding engine. The strength of the engine comes courtesy of the wider and stronger torque band, with the 450Nm peak figure now available across a flat 1,000rpm stretch—a torque-band five times wider and more usable than its predecessor. Testament to how torque-efficient the 4JJ3-TCX is, midrange torque has also been further finessed, with a hearty 400Nm on tap from only 1,400rpm through to 3,250rpm.

Quieter, more thermally efficient and now generating more power and torque, the 4JJ3-TCX sports new engine internals, a more efficient electronically controlled Variable Geometry System (VGS) Turbocharger and a new high efficiency, high-pressure direct injection fuel system, that makes the most of each drop of diesel. With less internal wear and tear through engineering, the new 4JJ3-TCX makes more power and torque, while emitting less noise and vibrations. Engine power is now transferred to the road through a more efficient and faster-shifting 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. Compared to the previous generation, this engine is as quiet and proven as they come.

OFF-ROAD PERFORMANCE

With off-road enthusiasts in mind, Isuzu engineers have improved the all-new D-Max’s off-road tractability, durability and capability. 4×4 models benefit from a solid and lighter one-piece aluminium tailshaft, transferring drive to the rear differential, which is now fitted with an electromagnetic diff-lock for constant traction when off-roading.

Isuzu engineers have cleverly engineered the engine air intake system, which has increased the D-MAX’s wading depth up to 800mm. Under the D-Max is more ground clearance and extensive under body protection—shielding vital components from debris. With the comprehensive redesign of the body and chassis, comes a welcomed improvement to the Approach, Departure and Ramp-Over Angles, which further aids in the all-new D-Max’s off-road prowess.

SUSPENSION

Improvements in the all-new D-Max’s ride, comfort and handling have been made with heavily redesigned suspension. Up front, not only has the Front Axle Weight capacity increased to 1,450kg, new double wishbone suspension with thicker anti-roll bars and new high-mounted upper-control arms reduce unwanted body roll, whilst optimising the roll centre geometry and improving vehicle handling and dynamics.

The rear suspension features a new 3-leaf design, manufactured using tempered SUP9 rated steel—which improves in strength, ductility and reduces unsprung weight, with overall rear suspension travel increased by 30mm over the preceding model.

INTERIOR & INFOTAINMENT

The bold design continues throughout the interior, equipped with new levels of technology, comfort, convenience and connectivity than ever before. Whether it’s the single cab, space cab or crew cab, each D-Maxcabin is laid out to be functional and comfortable with premium materials used throughout.

All models feature the latest in high-definition infotainment, equipped with DAB+ radio, voice recognition, Android Auto™ and wireless Apple CarPlay® and up to 8-premium surround sound speakers. LX and LS-M models sport a 7” display, whereas LS and X-TERRAIN models benefit from a larger 9” display with integrated Sat-Nav.

All buttons, switches and knobs have been meticulously designed to be ergonomic to use, with precise tactility when used. LS and X-TERRAIN models further benefit from dual zone climate control for the front row and AC vents in the rear, standard across all crew cab models. The driver is kept up to date with vehicle systems via a new 4.2” Multi-Information Display, which is customisable—relaying data such as the digital speedometer, turn-by-turn navigation instructions, fuel usage and range data, and menu sequences to the vehicle’s IDAS. The driver’s indicator and wiper stalks now feature Comfort Turn indicator operation for easy lane changing and automatic rain sensing and headlight control, with automatic high-beam control.

SAFETY & DRIVING CONVENIENCE

Equipped with the brains to match the brawn, standard across the all-new Isuzu D-Max range is Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS); a suite of comprehensive safety and convenience features that complement the driver and dramatically improves the level of safety for all occupants, pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. Some of these active safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go traffic functionality, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Prevention, alongside other potentially lifesaving technology such as 8-airbags, including a knee and centre airbag.

Isuzu have pioneered this innovative technology, developing this suite to ensure it meets extremely high safety standards. This system has been developed with customer’s needs in mind, working seamlessly with frontal protection accessories, such as bull bars and nudge bars, which will be available as a genuine part at time of launch from Isuzu Utes NZ Dealers.

Standard across the range, a new array of sensors now control headlight and windshield wiper operation, automatically turning them on and off when needed. Automatic High Beam control autonomously dims the high beams, when traffic is detected to avoid dazzling other drivers.

Providing additional safety, all D-Max models, including Cab Chassis models come standard with a Reverse Camera including integrated parking lines and a rear-step bumper, which houses the rear IDAS radar sensors—that also take care of the Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Monitoring.

With surveys detailing that close to half of all Isuzu owners tow with their vehicle—up to the maximum 3.5-tonnes—all models come equipped with Trailer Sway Control (TSC), which adds that extra layer of certainty when towing.

 

Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS) includes:

  • 8 airbags – dual front, dual seat side, dual full length curtain, front knee and centre (far-side)
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Turn Assist with AEB
  • Post-Collision Braking
  • Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
  • Misacceleration Mitigation (MAM) (*AT models only)
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (*AT models only)
  • Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
  • Intelligent Speed Limiter
  • Manual Speed Limiter
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
  • Lane Keep Assist (LKA) (*AT models only)
  • Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK)
  • Driver Attention Assist
  • Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
  • Automatic High Beam(AHB)
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
  • Traction Control System (TCS)
  • Hill Start Assist (HSA)
  • Hill Decent Control (HDC)
  • Rear Differential Lock (*4×4 only)
  • Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
  • Roll Over Mitigation (ROM)
  • Rear Park Sensors (LS-U and X-TERRAIN)
  • Front Park Sensors (X-TERRAIN)
  • LED Daytime Running Lights DRL
  • Automatic headlights
  • Automatic Windshield Wipers
  • Crash Door Unlock
  • ISOFIX Compatible Seats

View all available Isuzu D-Max vehicles on Auto Trader.