Joining the existing range of Isuzu D-Max today is a new variant with a 4×2 drivetrain; the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L.
With only 28 percent of Malaysian pick-up truck users frequently engaging their vehicle’s 4×4 system, the 4×2 variant is an ideal variant that offers lower rolling resistance from its less-complex drivetrain, fewer items that require maintenance and a lower kerb weight.
By omitting the transfer case, front differential and ancillary drive system, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L tips the scales at 1,830kg, shaving 85kg or the weight of an average adult off the 4×4’s kerb weight.
Based on similar specifications as the D-Max Standard 4×4 1.9L Auto variant, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L is powered by the amazing new 1.9-litre RZ4E-TC, that produces 150PS at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque between 1,800 and 2,600rpm.
Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox with ratios identical to the 4×4 variant.
To afford the variant with superior payload capability, the standard suspension rating is specified for the double wishbone set-up up front and 3-leaf semi-elliptical springs in the rear.
For further dynamic performance and sure-footedness, the Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L is endowed with a host of electronic driving aids including Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Brake Override System (BOS).
The combination of electronic aids and body structure has earned the entire Isuzu D-Max range 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest pick-up trucks on the market today.
Externally, the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Auto Plus sports a matte grey grille, Bi-LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs, and inset fog lamps integrated into the flanks of the bumper.
The high-ride model, which sits on 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 255/65 R17 HT radial tyres, also comes with side steps as standard together with the bed liner.
On the flanks of the cargo box are the ‘4×2 Auto Plus’ decals that differentiate the 4×4 and 4×2 variants.
Keen-eyed D-Max fans will also notice the reverse camera mounted in the tailgate handle of the 4×2 variant. This feature was added to the 1.9 Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L to aid urban mobility and is paired to a 7-inch multimedia screen inside.
There are four reverse sensors embedded into the integrated rear bumper, and five body colour choices – Splash White Solid, Mercury Silver Metallic, Onyx Black Mica, Sapphire Blue Mica, and Valencia Orange Metallic.
Inside, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L comes with woven-texture fabric seats and the driver’s seat can even be manually adjusted six ways.
All seats in the D-Max are designed to offer excellent whiplash protection while ISOFIX child seat mounts are available for the rear seats. All five positions are secured with inertia reel 3-point seatbelts with an audible and visual reminder.
The instrument panel features an e-LUMAX display that is both pleasing to read in all lighting conditions and offers comprehensive information at your fingertips. The display can be dimmed to adjust for ambient lighting.
Connectivity options including USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, MirrorLink, Miracast, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, the system offers endless entertainment through its 6-speaker system.
Power for your devices will also always be readily available with a 12-volt 120W power socket up front and a USB port each for front and rear users.
Priced at RM 100,999.20 on the road without insurance, the Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L will be available for booking immediately with deliveries beginning early November 2021.
