Isuzu D-Max’s brand of toughness takes on Davao

AFTER demonstrating its prowess in Cebu, the Isuzu D-Max LS-A truck showed its capabilities in Davao City as Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) brought its “D-Max 4×4 Toughness” event to the biggest city in the South.

The three-day test-drive and display event was held last weekend at SM Lanang, with the mall’s open grounds serving as an off-road driving test track.

IPC said this special “4×4 Tough Test Course” featured obstacles like a lateral descent ditch crossing, cross-axle articulation, elephant holes, 45-degree camber sides and the highlight 40-degree hill climb and descent course — all meant to demonstrate the D-Max LS-A’s capabilities.

Isuzu Philippines president Hakime Koso sets out to drive the D-Max LS-A.

The Isuzu D-Max LS-A display at SM City Lanang in Davao City.

Complementing the truck’s off-road performance are stylish exterior features like a redesigned front bumper and dark gray grille, side-view mirrors, fender lips, cargo extender and roof rails, IPC said. It added guests were able to check out these items during the D-Max LS-A’s special Mindanao launch and display held at the SM Lanang Atrium.

“The new D-Max LS-A has a true character of a pickup. Through this test-drive activity, we will be able to showcase to the public its exceptional off-road capabilities, strong under chassis and powerful engine. Bringing this event in Davao is strategic as we expect to make a comeback in the pickup segment, especially in this region,” said IPC President Hajime Koso.

The D-Max LS-A is powered by a four-cylinder, 3.0-liter Blue Power diesel engine that, with a VGS turbo and intercooler, produces 174hp and 380Nm. The truck is available in Cosmic Black, Sapphire Blue, Titanium Silver, Red Spinel, Splash White and Silky Pearl White colors.

IPC said it would soon announce a more “competitive” price for this variant.