Third-gen Isuzu D-Max spied, to debut in 2020

KUALA LUMPUR: Earlier this morning we caught hold of what appears to be the third-gen Isuzu D-Max. The pickup truck was captured running up and down the European roads. The still-in-development model was all wrapped in camouflage; however, the extended cab body is clearly visible. The headlights and taillights are similar to the ones on the current model. It’s the front bumper that seems to benefit from most of the revisions.

The upcoming Isuzu D-Max will be powered by an RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre turbo diesel 4-cylinder powerplant for the European auto market. Other markets are expected to get the new D-Max with the same old 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel. However, it’ll tag along with a variable geometry turbocharging system. The current Malaysia-spec 3.0-litre version of the D-Max is available in various trims. And it was towards the end of 2015, Isuzu Malaysia introduced the 2nd-gen D-Max facelift with a 1.9-litre engine.

The said 1.9-litre engine under the ongoing D-Max offers a maximum power of 150 hp at 3,600 rpm along with a peak torque of 350 Nm at 1800 rpm to 2,600 rpm. The unit is paired to either a six-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission unit for the smaller diesel powerplant. As for the 3.0-litre turbodiesel unit, it produces 177 hp of power and 380 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm to 2,600 rpm. The power is sent down to the wheels via a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Both the mills are available with low range and four-wheel drive.

The final model is expected to come along with an updated safety kit and driver assistance systems. The ongoing model specs sheet features dual airbags, hill-start assist, ABS with EBD and BA, stability control, and ISOFIX.

The upcoming Isuzu D-Max is said to make its global debut in 2020. It would then be followed by the introduction of the new Mazda BT-50.

Also Read:- Isuzu D-Max: Variants explained