2024 Isuzu D-Max facelift launched - From RM99k, refreshed exterior/interior, new off-road Rough Terrain Mode

KUALA LUMPUR: Isuzu Malaysia has consistently introduced annual updates to the Isuzu D-Max since 2021, and this year is no exception. Priced from RM98k, the 2024 Isuzu D-Max boasts a range of upgrades in exterior design, interior comfort, and off-road technology, making it the most feature-rich and premium version yet.

The new Isuzu D-Max range offers exceptional value for money in Malaysia, with prices starting at RM98,949 for the 1.9-litre Single Cab model. The top-of-the-line Flagship X-Terrain is priced at RM157,938, making this lineup one of the best choices for pickup trucks in the market.

Turn Heads and Hearts

The latest Isuzu D-Max has consistently received praise for its striking appearance. Its sporty design and muscular stance leave a lasting impression, marking a significant departure from the traditionally utilitarian image it had for many years.

The 2024 Isuzu D-Max takes this further with an all-new frontal appearance that creates even greater road presence. The new bonnet features a distinctive central bulge that adds an air of performance, accented by broad angled shoulders that give it a muscular image.

Efficiency in airflow has always been a key focus for the Isuzu D-Max, ensuring both aerodynamic performance and fuel economy. Despite a more aggressive frontal design, the new D-Max enhances these aspects even further.

The bumper integrates seamlessly with the body, reducing gaps for better aerodynamics. Broader bumper accents add prominence, especially in the D-Max X-Terrain model, where they are black, complemented by silver lowers for a sporty look. The lower radiator slats feature a new honeycomb lattice design for improved cooling.

An updated air curtain design near the fog lights channels air from the foglamp recess through the wheel arches. Enlarged foglamp housings and repositioned turn signals in the headlamp housing improve both visibility and style.

The headlamp cluster now includes Bi-LED headlamps and integrates LED DRLs with turn signals in a sharper design.

Enhanced Exterior Design

The side profile of the new D-Max retains its muscular shoulders and character lines. The D-Max X-Terrain stands out with matte grey overfenders.

The tyres remain 265/60R18 All Terrain, mounted on new six-spoke matte black alloy rims, which are rugged and easy to clean after off-road adventures says Isuzu.

At the rear, the D-Max features a redesigned tailgate with a dimple and flared lip. The D-Max X-Terrain also gets a new handle design and a keyhole for tailgate locking if a canopy or lid is fitted. The tailgate assist remains for easier handling.

The new tail light cluster with redesigned LED lamps is stylish but also functional, ensuring high visibility in all conditions.

The new Isuzu D-Max offers a variety of body colours, including the new Namibu Orange Mica, alongside Islay Grey, Onyx Black, and Dolomite White Pearl for the D-Max X-Terrain.

Interior Enhancements

The third-generation D-Max is already known for its impressive interior, particularly in the X-Terrain variant, but the 2024 edition brings a level of comfort and sophistication typically seen in high-end SUVs. The new 2024 D-Max raises the bar with new designs and features.

A welcome lamp projects in front of the doors, and scuff plates and footwells light up when the doors open, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The door panels feature a new MIURA design inspired by Japanese origami, continuing onto the dashboard. A driver-selectable ambient lighting system offers a choice of seven colours or can be turned off completely.

Soft-touch panels and liberal use of leather cladding on the multi-function steering wheel and seats give the D-Max X-Terrain a premium feel. The seats now feature a new pattern with perforations for improved ventilation and comfort.

The new 10-inch infotainment head unit(only on X-terrain), enlarged from the previous 9-inch unit, offers quicker access to key items like the Reverse Camera and 360° Around View Monitor with 3D image guide. It also connects wirelessly to Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

The instrument panel now includes a new 7” e-Lumax Multi Information Display (MID) for easier information access and vehicle settings changes, controlled via the steering wheel. New graphics for displays like fuel level, coolant temperature, and engine speed can be customized to the driver's preference.

Advanced Safety Features

The Isuzu D-Max has earned the maximum 5 stars in the ASEAN ANCAP safety rating. The new generation of Allsight safety functions makes the new D-Max X-Terrain even more safer.

The improved 4th-generation stereo camera has a wider 120° viewing angle, allowing it to detect and recognize more objects, especially from the sides. Its forward detection distance has improved from 120m to 150m.

With this enhanced capability, the D-Max X-Terrain can identify potential dangers, alert the driver, or take action to avoid accidents, including improved pedestrian safety.

A new feature, the Rear Cross Traffic Brake, alerts the driver and applies the brakes if a collision is imminent while reversing, a useful feature in urban settings.

On and Off-Road Capability

The Isuzu D-Max is designed to handle both on-road and off-road conditions with ease. Its 240mm ground clearance, 800mm wading capability, and all-terrain tyres ensure it can tackle hills and valleys confidently.

The driver-selectable Terrain Command switch allows quick adaptation to conditions by selecting 2H, 4H, or 4L. A rear Differential Lock helps navigate extreme off-road conditions.

For those less experienced in off-road driving, the new D-Max Double Cab 4x4 models include Rough Terrain Mode. This mode uses wheel sensors to detect grip levels and apportion power to the wheel with the most grip. The system combines torque distribution and individual wheel braking for smooth power transmission, regardless of the transmission mode – in 2H, 4H, or 4L.

Rough Terrain Mode, combined with Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), and Diff Lock, allows drivers with limited off-road knowledge to venture onto unpaved roads confidently and safely.

Unfortunately, the powertrain remains unchanged from the previous model, with the 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre turbocharged Blue Power diesel engines continuing to power the 2024 Isuzu D-Max. The 1.9-litre engine delivers 150PS and 350Nm of torque, while the 3.0-litre engine provides 190PS and 450Nm of torque. Most models feature a 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift, with the exception of certain models that come with a 6-speed manual transmission.

To bring the Isuzu D-Max closer to Malaysians, Isuzu is embarking on a digital journey. All their showrooms will be equipped with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) devices, allowing customers to experience the D-Max and its features before taking it for a test drive. To celebrate this innovation, Isuzu Malaysia will offer exclusive gifts to those who test drive the D-Max virtually and physically between May 15th and June 30th, 2024.

Also Read: Isuzu unveils the D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV (mild-hybrid electric vehicle) - Mild-hybrid the future of pickup trucks?