Isuzu D-Max, MU-X get a new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine

KUALA LUMPUR: Isuzu’s flagship models, the D-Max and MU-X, are globally renowned for their robust design, off-road performance, and diesel engines offering excellent fuel economy. Well, the automaker has now stepped up its game with the rollout of a new powerful 2.2-litre RZ4F diesel engine for these 4x4 vehicles.

Also read: Isuzu D-Max sets new record: 2,000km driven on a single tank of fuel

Based on the older 1.9-litre ‘RZ4E-TC’ unit, the new engine is touted as “more powerful” and “faster.” It churns out a maximum power of 163 PS and a peak torque of 400 Nm. It combines improved combustion and optimised turbo settings with the new 8-speed AT, which results in a significant improvement in power and fuel efficiency.

The new 8-speed automatic transmission features a wider gear range, optimised torque, high-performance lockup dampers, and gear shift map settings, enabling the engine to provide improved start-up capability, acceleration, fuel economy, and overall performance.

Isuzu’s President and COO Shinsuke Minami, who attended the new engine unveiling event at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram Province, Thailand, said, “Isuzu has attained a high market share in Thailand over the years with the support of many loyal customers. The new D-MAX and MU-X, with a new engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, will bring significant improvements in driving performance and fuel economy.”

“Isuzu continues to develop a wide range of products with a multi-pathway approach as we strive to realise a carbon-neutral society, not only in the area of internal combustion engines but for battery EVs and fuel cell vehicles as well,” he added.

The 2025 D-Max and MU-X models, equipped with a new mechanical setup, will go on sale in Thailand on November 28, 2024.

In global markets, the current D-Max and MU-X models are offered with two engine options - a 1.9-litre diesel producing 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque, or a 3.0-litre diesel delivering 190 PS and 450 Nm. However, in Malaysia, we only have the D-Max pickup truck with the mentioned engine options mated to a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission.

Whether Isuzu’s new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine will replace one or both of these existing engines remains to be seen.

Also read: Meet Isuzu D-Max Blade: An off-road pickup truck built for tough terrains