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

KUALA LUMPUR: The Isuzu D-Max is a strong contender in the competitive pickup truck market around the world. Recently, Isuzu UTE Australia has developed an all-new iteration of the model, called the D-Max Blade. The new pickup truck is set to redefine off-road capability and performance in the Australian market.

The D-Max Blade is the result of over three years of concepting and prototyping, reflecting the brand’s commitment to delivering a top-tier vehicle. The automaker collaborated with Walkinshaw Automotive Group, a leader in Australian automotive engineering to turn the ute into reality. The vehicle underwent an extensive 100,000 km durability testing program across various terrains, ensuring it can handle the toughest conditions.

Let’s know the Isuzu D-Max Blade in detail - 

Isuzu D-Max Blade engine and performance

The  D-Max Blade runs on a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine churning out a maximum power of 140 kW and a peak torque of 450 Nm. Power is sent to the wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission paired with 4x4 Terrain Command (with 2-High, 4-High, and 4-Low dual-range transfer case).

Adding to its off-roading performance is a rear-differential lock and rough terrain mode. The vehicle has a ground clearance of 244 mm and a water-wading depth of 800 mm. It comes with a lifted suspension setup, finished in signature Isuzu red.

Isuzu D-Max Blade exterior 

Confirming the visual identity of the new D-Max are several exclusive exterior elements, including 

• Satin black front grille with ‘ISUZU’ lettering and Satin black front bumper cladding
• Satin black ‘BLADE’ lettering across tailgate
• Satin black fender flares
• Widened mud flaps 
• Satin black decals on the front bar, bonnet, doors, and tailgate

• 3-mm bash plate underbody protection
• 8-tonne load-rated recovery points with cross-bracing
• Satin black 17x8.5-inch +28 flow-formed alloy wheels wrapped with 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tyres

• Satin black one-piece extended sports bar with integrated stop lamp
• Basalt Black tailgate and door handles
• Basalt Black door mirrors

Standard equipment kit includes automatic Bi-LED headlights with automatic high beam control, LED daytime running lights, automatic windshield wipers, and LED combination tail lights.

Isuzu D-Max Blade interior 

Inside, the D-Max Blade offers a blend of utilitarian functionality and luxury, featuring exclusive 'BLADE' accents. The key highlights include- 

• ‘BLADE’ embroidered headrests
• ‘BLADE’ embroidered floor mats
• ‘BLADE’ embossed scuff plates
• Individually numbered BLADE identification plaques on the transmission selector surround and in the engine bay, highlight the vehicle’s exclusivity
• 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 8-speaker audio system
• 7.0-inch instrument cluster
• Dual-zone air-conditioning system
• Premium leather steering wheel and gear selector
• Leather-accented upholstery
• 8-way electric front adjustable driver’s seat
• Variably heated front seats

Isuzu D-Max Blade safety 

The pickup comes equipped with eight airbags and Isuzu's Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS), which includes 

• AEB with Turn Assist
• Forward Collision Warning
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Departure Prevention
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Emergency Lane Keeping
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Rear Cross Traffic Brake
• Welcome Headlight
• Digital Reversing Camera
• Trailer Sway Control 

Isuzu D-Max Blade colours 

Isuzu Australia offers the new ute in four striking tones - Moonstone White Pearl, Basalt Black Mica, Granite Grey Mica, and Sunstone Orange Mica.

The Isuzu D-Max Blade is the new flagship model in the D-Max lineup. Its introductory price is AUD 76,990 (approximately equal to RM 221k), and it includes a six-year/150,000km manufacturer’s warranty.

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