The New D-Max: a ride for all seasons and reasons

WORTH waiting two years for: the new Isuzu D-Max

Nowadays, pickup trucks are no longer workhorses used only in farming, construction and other outdoor industries. Modern pickups have become a lifestyle statement for urban dwellers who dare to be different from the hoi polloi driving passenger cars and sport utility vehicles. This is why pickup manufacturers have to factor in creature comforts as well as durability and off-road capability when designing a new pickup, yet strike a judicious balance between the two.

Isuzu, which built its first pickup in 1922, was aware of this market trend when it developed the second generation D-Max last year as a versatile work companion that can double as a family car. The new D-Max looks athletic and robust with its sloping hood, front grille, projector headlights and prominent roofline plus flared steel (not plastic) wheel arches framing 255/65R17 tires.  Bigger than the previous generation D-Max, it is also more aerodynamic with a drag coefficient of 0.47 that is 5 percent more slippery than the old model. A lighter but stronger ladder chassis,  a passenger safety cell made with high tensile steel and the new suspension system guarantee stable and precise handling, especially when the cargo bed is heavily loaded.

WITH ITS rigid ladder chassis and high ground clearance, the new D-Max can tackle any road or weather condition.

COMPREHENSIVE. Isuzu claims that the new D-Max is the result of the most comprehensive product development program in the company’s history.  The extensively redeveloped 4JJI-TC 3-liter common rail direct injection 4-in-line DOHC  diesel engine with turbo intercooler of the previous D-Max delivers improved emissions and fuel economy (7.9 liters per 100 kilometers) together with more flexible and accessible power and torque. Internal changes include a new combustion chamber, new intake manifold, new pistons and a larger intercooler that was repositioned to improve pedestrian protection. The engine produces 144 horsepower at 3,800 revolutions per minute and peak torque of 294 Newton-meters from a low of 1.400 rpm up to 3,400 rpm.  Max torque comes in at 1,800 rpm with a long, flat torque curve to 2,800 rpm.

INSIDE, electroluminiscent gauges, a premium audio surround sound system, a new five-speed A/T

Since reliability is most important, the engine still has a stainless steel timing chain driving the camshafts via a scissor gear. According to Isuzu engineers, the powerplant was tested over 4 million km, or equivalent to 100 global circumnavigations. The rigid ladder chassis, good wheel articulation and very tractable low-down torque plus high ground clearance, 49-degree traverse angle and 30-degree entry give the D-Max serious capability for off-roading. In other words, the new D-Max is a genuine tough truck with a proven record for strength and durability. Off road or on, the engine is well-matched to a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission with sequential manual mode, although some people wish that Isuzu had installed a six-speed gearbox instead.

TERRAIN COMMAND. The 4×4 D-Max is equipped with the new “Terrain Command” shift-on-the-fly select dial that allow switching from 4WD to 2WD and back even at speeds up to 100 kilometers per hour. On rough roads, the traction control operates like a differential lock, feeding power to the wheels with traction. For steep descents, a hill-descent function “holds” the descent speed and allows the driver to creep down on the engine braking.  Moreover, the Limited Slip Differential ensures control of the vehicle and better grip on the road despite slippery driving conditions caused by rain and mud. The new 4×4 D-Max can tow a maximum braked load of 3.0 tonnes.  In Europe where the D-Max has six airbags as standard, the pickup was awarded a 4-star safety rating by Euro NCAP.

MORE ROOM at the back with mahogany leather seats

Now for the creature comforts: Aside from brute strength and practicality, the new D-Max offers a more comfy ride than the previous model due mainly to a new front independent double wishbone suspension with coil springs and gas shock absorbers.  The driver’s seat is six-way power adjustable and all seats are clad in mahogany leather in the 4×4 A/T variant.  Wider-set seat mountings have increased knee room, leg room and foot room in both the front and the back of the spacious, refined cabin. Front shoulder space has been enhanced. The rear seatback reclines 24 degrees so that rear passengers don’t have to sit uncomfortably bolt upright.

THE STURDY 3-liter CRDi turbo diesel engine delivers max torque and fuel efficiency. PHOTOS BY AIDA SEVILLA-MENDOZA

EASY ACCESS. The A-pillar is 100 millimeters further forward and is more raked so that this, combined with longer, wider opening doors, provides easy access.  Seats are well-bolstered for extra comfort.  The three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel has audio controls and rake adjustment, but has no reach adjustment. Electro-luminescent gauges and a multi-information display show various readouts, including fuel consumption. A premium live surround audio system with six speakers, including roof-mounted “exciter” speakers, is standard across all models.

While forward visibility is good, there are no rear parking sensors or rear camera which makes parking this big, long vehicle tricky, especially in town.  On the other hand, fit and finish are better than in other pickups, the steering and brakes are excellent.  Gearing and acceleration feel more lively at low speeds and the soft leaf spring rear suspension provides a more settled on-road feel.  Isuzu has succeeded in achieving more quiet, space and comfort for the new D-Max’s interior, resulting in good over-all refinement levels with quiet operation of the diesel engine and little wind or road noise.  Summing up, the new D-Max is an impressive, competent all-rounder, nice to drive and smartly equipped for all seasons and reasons.. Prices range from P1.144 million for the 4×2 M/T up to P1.457 million for the 4×4 A/T.