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Isuzu Malaysia launches the D-MAX Stealth Edition, only 180 units available

With pick-up trucks and light commercial vehicles, the product cycle is usually up to 10 years, unlike passenger cars which are typically 5 years. This means that the distributors have to keep finding ways to sustain interest in their product for many years, and that can be a big challenge. While there are occasions when the manufacturer will depart from usual practice by changing the powertrain, in most cases, it’s special edition after special edition to provide customers with something ‘new’ each year.

For Isuzu Malaysia, the D-MAX has been their main product apart from commercial vehicles and it was only in recent years that they got a second non-commercial product, the MU-X. They’ve done pretty well to maintain high sales numbers over such a long period and of course, that’s also partly due to the D-MAX being a tough, well engineered and proven pick-up truck.

More aggressive and bold looks
For 2020, Isuzu Malaysia has created a Stealth version that is quite exclusive since only 180 units will be available. Developed on a design theme of premium urban pick-up, the D-MAX Stealth gains additional aggressive and boldness in its looks from liberal use of blackened components that replace the chromed parts. These include the front grille, headlamp, fog lamp and bumper garnish, roof rails and rear bumpers.

The grille incorporates a fine silver accent line that flows across the entire front and has a matching line running through the new front spoiler. The accent line also complements the boomerang-shaped daylight running light within each headlamp, providing identification from a distance.

Besides specially designed two-tone 18-inch alloy rims, the D-MAX Stealth also has the requisite decals to identify it from the sides and rear. It is available only in Stallion Black Metallic or Silky White Pearl. Customers can also include a black custom-designed sportsbar for an extra RM1,320.

The D-MAX has a generously-sized cargo bed that measures 1,485 mm long, 1,530 mm wide and 465 mm deep. With many trucks, opening the tailgate can require some effort because it’s heavy. But the Isuzu engineers added an assist mechanism that ‘lightens’ the tailgate. It’s as easy as opening and closing the rear door of a SUV or passenger car. Those who require security for their cargo can add an optional T-Lid for RM5,500.

And now we come to a ‘stealth’ feature which is a first of its kind to be offered as standard on a pick-up truck – retractable side steps. Side steps are necessary as the cabin floor is quite high up but they stick out a bit which can be a problem on rough terrain. The retracting side steps on the D-MAX Stealth deploy when any door is opened and return to a flush position under the sills when the doors are closed. An automatic welcome light below the vehicle provides illumination at night.

Striking first impression
Inside the double cab, the red and black combination seats give a striking first impression. The premium leather and fabric upholstery incorporates stitched Stealth logos in the leather backrests for a more exclusive outlook.

The interior has been accentuated with dark grey headlining while the trim garnish is in piano black in keeping with the overall theme. Accenting them are the air vent knobs that have been finished in chrome.

The majority, if not all, the people who buy the 180 D-MAX Stealth trucks will be spending most of their time in the ‘urban jungle’ or on highways, so comfort and entertainment will be a high expectation. Isuzu Malaysia has equipped the vehicle with a first-in-class front and rear digital video recorder (DVR) that can record the front and rear views in full HD.

The videos are stored on a 32GB SD card each time the vehicle is driven. Using motion detectors, it can also record when the vehicle is parked if it detects movement within its 140-degree angle of view or when it senses an impact to the vehicle. The camera can then play back on the owner’s phone through wifi and the IROAD app which can be downloaded from Apple App Store of Google Play.

Another handy feature for urban drivers is another first-in-class offering – the Around View Monitor with 3D Image Guide. Using 4 cameras around the vehicle, the system offers ease of manoeuvring as it automatically provides a choice of bird’s eye view or 3D view when Reverse Gear is selected. Drivers can also manually activate the AVM with the push of a button on the dashboard to check surroundings for added assurance and more precise positioning.

Additional assistance comes from front parking sensors that help the driver determine the distance from walls. This, along with the rear-view camera, will help when positioning the truck in tight parking bays.

Innovative Blue Power turbodiesel engine
The D-MAX Stealth has the same powertrain as the D-Max 4×4 Premium Automatic version. This is the innovative RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre Ddi Blue Power turbodiesel engine. Though smaller in displacement than the engines that have been used before, the Blue Power engine actually deliver higher output of 150 ps/350 Nm. However, because its displacement is less, it has lower fuel consumption.

In fact, it is the most fuel-efficient engine ever produced by Isuzu and this was proven in an exercise where a D-MAX was driven from Pekan, Pahang to Shah Alam, Selangor, by a very long route over mountains. Based on the reading from its on-board computer, the 1.9-litre engine consumed fuel from its 76-litre tank at an average rate of 7.2 litres per 100 kms or 13.7 kms/litre.

“Customers seeking one of the most dependable and capable pick-up trucks in the market today can now arrive in distinctive style with the new Isuzu D-Max Stealth. The stylish exterior is equally matched by striking interior designs that embolden the vehicle, offering urban drivers an elevated presence on the road,” said the Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki.

The D-Max Stealth comes with a special 7-year unlimited mileage warranty and will be available at all authorized Isuzu showrooms nationwide from today. Prices start from RM125,799.20 (without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia, RM128,176.20 (without insurance) in Sabah and RM128,220.30 (without insurance) in Sarawak.

Buy one now and get extras
Early bird purchasers who register their vehicles (private registration only) during the month of August 2020 will have the option of a free sportsbar or opt to purchase a T-Lid Cover for only RM2,000.00, while stocks last.

For more information or to locate a showroom, visit www.isuzu.net.my.

Isuzu’s Deferred Instalment Campaign allows you to start repayments up to 6 months later

Isuzu’s Deferred Instalment Campaign allows you to start repayments up to 6 months later

In a move to help its customers in these challenging times, Isuzu Malaysia is having Deferred Instalment Campaign where repayment of instalments under a Hire-Purchase (H-P) loan can start three or six months after the vehicle has been delivered.

The Isuzu Deferment Instalment Campaign is the first of its kind in the pick-up segment in Malaysia and will be available to customers purchasing new vehicles until August 31, 2020.

Explaining the objective of this campaign, Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer (Light Commercial Vehicle Division), Masayuki Suzuki, said it is to help Malaysians move forward during this recovery period. “A capable, dependable and frugal vehicle is a valuable asset today and a good pick-up truck makes economic sense be it for individuals or organizations. By providing this moratorium, customers can fortify their earnings by putting their brand new Isuzu D-MAX pick-up trucks to work during the deferment period before needing to worry about loan repayments,” said Mr Suzuki.

Up to 90% margin of financing for 84 months
The campaign, in collaboration with Public Bank Berhad, covers almost every model in the Isuzu D-MAX range. Customers can obtain up to 90% financing margin for a maximum tenure of 84 months and the minimum loan amount to qualify for this campaign is RM20,000.00 (terms and conditions apply).

There’s a wide range of variants in the locally-assembled D-Max range to meet different requirements and budgets. Having been in the market for 15 years, the D-MAX has developed an impressive reputation as one of the toughest and most frugal pick-up trucks in Malaysia. These qualities have been proven in gruelling events such as the annual Borneo Safari off-road expedition as well as long-distance economy challenges driving from Bangkok to Singapore using just one tank of fuel.

Small engine displacement, big on output
The latest D-MAX comes with the advanced 1.9-litre Blue Power engine, the smallest engine capacity in the market thereby enjoying the cheapest roadtax in its segment. Even though it has a small capacity, its performance and fuel efficiency are better than the 2.5-litre engine used previously.

Recently, a D-MAX with the engine crossed four of the highest peaks in Peninsular Malaysia carrying a tonne of load, covering a distance of 1,145 kms. From its starting point at the assembly plant in Pekan, Pahang, it reached its destination with fuel to spare in the tank.

More information on the D-MAX and the Isuzu Deferred Instalment campaign can be found at www.isuzu.net.my/pickup.

Isuzu D-MAX conquers the Borneo Safari again – this time with the Blue Power 1.9-litre engine!

Isuzu Dura Miles Challenge shows fuel efficiency of 1.9-litre Blue Power engine

Isuzu Malaysia’s Dura Miles Challenge has proven that the Isuzu D-MAX is a champion when it comes to fuel economy. It has seen the pick-up truck being driven from Bangkok to Singapore on just one full tank of fuel, certainly an impressive achievement.

In the automotive world, technology constantly advances and the Isuzu D-MAX has become a more efficient all-round vehicle with new capabilities as well as those already embedded in its DNA. It has the new 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel engine that produces more power and torque than the 2.5-litre powerplant it replaces.

To demonstrate its capable performance and engineering supremacy, Isuzu Malaysia loaded a 1.9-litre Single Cab model to its maximum permissible capacity of a ton and took it through some of the highest accessible hills along the Titiwangsa Mountain Range. In total, it clocked over 1,000 kms and two bars of fuel still remained in the tank.

“The prowess of the Isuzu D-Max continues to astound with its remarkable capabilities. Despite being the pick-up truck with smallest displacement on the market, the 1.9-litre Isuzu D-Max completed the challenge with absolute ease and confidence. It truly suggests that the Isuzu D-Max 1.9-litre Blue Power has what it takes to get any job done,” said Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki.

Prior to starting its journey from its ‘birthplace’, the Isuzu-Hicom Malaysia factory in Pekan, Pahang, a thorough inspection of the vehicle was conducted by PUSPAKOM. This was to verify its conformity as a showroom-standard unit.

With its crates, bonnet and fuel tank sealed, the D-Max headed north for its first challenge – the East-West highway linking Jeli in Kelantan and Gerik in Perak with a climb to the peak of 1,052 metres before ending at Ipoh for the night.

The next day, the route was even more daunting as the lone white D-MAX travelled up 1,112 metres to Tanah Rata in Cameron Highlands before heading on to Fraser’s Hill (1,222 metres) via Raub. From there, the journey took on an even-bigger challenge: the climb up to Genting Highlands at 1,604 metres before ending at the Isuzu Service Centre in Shah Alam, Selangor after clocking 1,145 kms.

It was certainly a very long way to go from Pekan to Shah Alam but the D-MAX passed through the gates of the finish point with ample fuel to spare in its 76-litre tank. Based on the reading from its on-board computer, the 1.9-litre engine had consumed an average of just 7.2 litres/100 kms or 13.7 kms/litre.

“Through advanced technology, the new 1.9-litre RZ4E-TC engine is by far the most fuel-efficient engine ever produced by Isuzu Motors and this was clearly demonstrated in this exercise. Perhaps some vehicles can travel long distances on a tank of fuel, and some can probably manage to carry a ton of weight or climb mountains. But to achieve all three criteria with one vehicle is a true feat of a competent vehicle,” added the CEO of Isuzu, Malaysia Koji Nakamura.

All D-Max models (including the 1.9-litre Single Cab) come with a 5-year 150,000-km warranty. To know more about the range and to locate a showroom for a test-drive, visit www.isuzu.net.my/pickup.

FIRST DRIVE: 2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 – “Blue Power”

Isuzu Malaysia provides compactor trucks for cleaning services companies

Isuzu Malaysia, the market leader in commercial vehicles, recently delivered a batch of Isuzu FORWARD FVR compactor trucks to Environment Idaman Sdn Bhd and their sub-contractor, Warisan Integriti Sdn Bhd. The trucks were procured from Indah Utara Auto Sdn Bhd, an authorised dealer of Isuzu Malaysia.

From the procurement of 10 units, Environment Idaman will receive 6 units for this year while Warisan Integriti will take the other four. The FORWARD FVR compactor trucks are slated to be used for solid waste management, collection and disposal for local municipalities in Perlis and Kedah.

During the handover ceremony, Atsunori Murata, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia thanked representatives from the two companies for choosing the Isuzu model. Mr. Murata said he is confident that Isuzu’s reliability and durability will serve both companies well in their pursuit of providing timely services for day-to-day operations.

The newly procured units are expected to replace Environment Idaman’s aging fleet. For Warisan Integriti, the procurement is part of their long-term fleet expansion exercise. Isuzu Malaysia will be providing a training session to allow drivers of both companies to properly familiarise themselves with the vehicles.

For more information on Isuzu’s range of vehicles, visit www.isuzu.net.my.

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Isuzu D-Max wins ‘Pick Up of the Year’ award in the UK

Malaysia just witnessed the launch of the new 2019 Isuzu D-Max and it looks like the manufacturer is getting more recognition for its versatile pick up truck. This time, it’s in the UK where it was awarded its second consecutive award for the ‘Pick Up of the Year’ at the Commercial Fleet Awards. (more…)

All-new 3rd generation Isuzu D-MAX to go on sale next week in Thailand

It used to be that pick-up trucks would have a model cycle of at least 10 years – double that of passenger cars. And during that considerable length of time in the market, distributors would have to sustain interest by having limited editions periodically to refresh the looks, besides adding extra features. Today, though, competition is tough and 10 years is a bit long so Isuzu Motors has come out with an all-new generation of its popular D-MAX truck after 8 years.

To go on sale from October 19, the new D-MAX has received extensive change guided by the development concept of ‘Efficient and Robust’. This development concept was formulated to offer a vehicle that delivers higher fuel efficiency and safety while responding to various usage conditions and purposes in over 100 countries where the 1-ton truck is sold.

Versatility has made it very popular
The D-MAX has been especially popular in Thailand, where Isuzu has its global production hub (which supplies CKD kits to its subsidiary plant in Pekan, Malaysia, for local assembly). The popularity has been due to not only being suitable for personal use but also for business use. The durability of the powertrain has also been a strong factor in making Isuzu a top brand in Thailand.

It’s hard for a truck to look significantly different but Isuzu’s designers have given the new model a more distinctive look with a larger grille that is orientated more vertically. Aiming to present the new D-MAX as ‘Bold, Emotional and Smart’, the designers have given the chunky exterior profile with a wedge body shape a more powerful, swishing silhouette than ever before. A neatly integrated step bumper is mounted on the rear, giving an all-new, sophisticated look.

In the headlamps, bi-led projectors combined with stylish signature lamps are installed giving an eager, intense look. At the rear, the lamps have dual LED edge lights. Together, these new light designs contribute to a unique, stylish appearance front and rear.

Lean, rational assembly structure and extensive use of high-tensile steel plates have moderated the overall vehicle weight but the bodywork is still tough and rigidity is 20% greater. Taking note of the need to resist corrosion as the vehicle is used in wet conditions in markets like Thailand, anti-corrosion ability is said to be greatly improved. The new D-MAX can cross a river that is 800 mm deep as well. Moreover, it’s designed in such a way that its electrical architecture flexibly accommodates evolution in security and connected technologies.

Isuzu D-MAX Gen3 — *Front and rear suspension*

Interior with ‘first-class appearance’
The revised dashboard has a 9-inch display mounted in the centre of a horizontally-flowing form with sharp and rich surface textures. The interior has a ‘first-class appearance’ with the introduction of a floor console which is now taller and wider. Also, it is designed to enfold the driver and passenger as if they were in a cockpit of an airplane. Low-rebound MDI polyurethane is used for front seat cushions to reduce fatigue that long-distance drivers have to endure.

The design of a rear seat in the crew cab is optimized to improve ride comfort. To allow for easy getting in/out, an opening of the B-pillar is shifted forward and assist grip is added.

Detailed attention is paid to its interior components having embossed and texturized surfaces to achieve a high-end, sporty look. For the workhorse applications, there’s a simple and practically designed instrument panel and durable door trim.

Low fuel consumption and CO² emissions
Isuzu has specialised in diesel engines for decades and for the new D-MAX, there’s a newly developed 4JJ3 engine (based on the reliable 3-litre 4JJ1 diesel engine). The combined effects of 250 MPa high injection pressure, electronically-controlled VSG turbocharger, heat-insulating coating on the piston, double-scissors gear, etc. has yielded the engine featuring high power, low fuel consumption and low noise. The 1.9-litre RZ4E engine (recently introduced in Malaysia) has received some enhancements.

A pull-ring shift lever is used for the manual transmission to make it easier for the driver to reverse the vehicle, and drive feel is better and more engaging. As for the automatic transmission developed for RZ4E engine, a downsized torque converter and lock-up clutch integrated with a wide-angle damper provide improvements in fuel consumption and response.

A single propeller shaft made of aluminium is now installed, giving a significant weight reduction. There’s also an electromagnetic rear differential lock to use in difficult conditions. With an enhanced transfer of power to the wheels, Isuzu says it now takes shorter time to switch between 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive as well as between High and Low ranges.

The new D-MAX’s front hub bearing is now maintenance-free as it is part of unit bearing. Maintenance schedules for other items are extended, and the maintenance frequency and costs are greatly reduced (depending on the market).

*Better protection for occupants with up to 6 airbags, and active safety systems like Blind Spot Monitoring (below).*

EE Architecture for new CASE era
The EE architecture is configured using the central gateway in order to pave the way to the new CASE era. Technologies designed to optimize convenience and comfort are extensively employed such as keyless entry, infotainment, lights, wipers, etc.

The new generation of the D-MAX will most likely be available in Malaysia some time next year. Because Isuzu assembles the model locally, some time is needed to prepare for assembly and also to coordinate with local parts suppliers.

Isuzu D-Max “Buy One, Free One” for two lucky customers!

It has been a day to remember for two very lucky Isuzu D-Max owners as they were greatly rewarded with a brand-new Isuzu D-Max 2.5 Auto 4×4 earlier today. The Isuzu D-Max Buy and Win Contest was held earlier this year where Isuzu customers stand a chance to win the grand prizes. (more…)

2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 officially launched! From RM80,149

It was only less than two weeks back when we went all the way to Thailand to test drive the new 2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 and today, the new pickup truck from Isuzu Malaysia has been officially launched for the Malaysian market. (more…)

FIRST DRIVE: 2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 – “Blue Power”

There are many ways on how you can sample the finer things in life, and many would agree that when trying such things, the location or surroundings are also important as well. That is why Isuzu Malaysia took a bunch of Malaysian motoring media members to Thailand to test out the upcoming 2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 Ddi Blue Power. (more…)

Isuzu Malaysia offers ‘Adventures of a Lifetime’ to D-MAX customers

Owners of the Isuzu D-MAX generally have an active lifestyle, part of the reason why they bought the popular pick-up model. It’s an ideal vehicle for work and for going on holidays, exploring our beautiful country.

“When you throw versatility and comfort into the mix, what you have is a vehicle that is the perfect holiday or work buddy,” adds Masayuki Suzuki, COO of Isuzu Malaysia. He notes too that, by design and through its shared DNA with Isuzu commercial trucks, ‘the D-Max performs with tenacious dependability and amazing fuel efficiency’.

Now, for those who want to even more exciting adventures and in distant lands with totally different environments, Isuzu Malaysia is offering the chance to experience a dream holiday in the ‘Isuzu Win an Adventure of a Lifetime’ contest. Open to customers who purchase and register a new D-MAX from authorised Isuzu dealerships between now and September 30, 2019, the contest offers holiday packages for 10 lucky customers.

Iceland (left) is the destination for the Grand Prize winner, while destinations for 9 other winners include Turkey (right), Greece and Korea. While each winner can bring a partner along, Isuzu Malaysia doesn’t mention that they can also bring their new D-MAX with them for the adventure.

Holiday packages overseas for 10 lucky customers
Besides the Grand Prize of a 10-day holiday for two to Iceland, there are also prizes to destinations such as Greece, Turkey and Korea. All winners will enjoy accommodation in 4-star hotels with tours and meals included during the stay.

After the vehicle purchase and registration have been finalised, each customer can enter the contest by submitting a 100-word slogan which starts with ‘I Chose Isuzu D-Max because……..’. The winners will be randomly selected through computerized system by a third party, with the slogans also being considered as judging criteria.

Isuzu D-MAX — *To be eligible to enter the contest, customers need to purchase and register any of the latest D-MAX RT85 models by September 30, 2019.*

Enjoy what the world has to offer
“The ‘Isuzu Win an Adventure of a Lifetime’ contest is our way of encouraging Malaysians to take that step back to enjoy what the world has to offer. Through vehicles that have the range and versatility such as the Isuzu D-Max, we are encouraged to explore and experience the myriad of attractions that Malaysia and the world have to offer,” said Mr. Suzuki.

Information about the contest and Isuzu vehicles can be obtained at authorised Isuzu dealerships nationwide. To locate a dealer, visit www.isuzu.net.my/pickup. Contest terms and conditions can also be found at the Isuzu D-MAX Malaysia Facebook page.

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Isuzu

Isuzu Malaysia launches the D-MAX Stealth Edition, only 180 units available

Isuzu’s Deferred Instalment Campaign allows you to start repayments up to 6 months later

Isuzu Dura Miles Challenge shows fuel efficiency of 1.9-litre Blue Power engine

Isuzu Malaysia provides compactor trucks for cleaning services companies

Isuzu D-Max wins ‘Pick Up of the Year’ award in the UK

All-new 3rd generation Isuzu D-MAX to go on sale next week in Thailand

Isuzu D-Max “Buy One, Free One” for two lucky customers!

2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 officially launched! From RM80,149

FIRST DRIVE: 2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 – “Blue Power”

Isuzu Malaysia offers ‘Adventures of a Lifetime’ to D-MAX customers

Isuzu Malaysia launches the D-MAX Stealth Edition, only 180 units available

Isuzu’s Deferred Instalment Campaign allows you to start repayments up to 6 months later

Isuzu Dura Miles Challenge shows fuel efficiency of 1.9-litre Blue Power engine

Isuzu Malaysia provides compactor trucks for cleaning services companies

Isuzu D-Max wins ‘Pick Up of the Year’ award in the UK

All-new 3rd generation Isuzu D-MAX to go on sale next week in Thailand

Isuzu D-Max “Buy One, Free One” for two lucky customers!

2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 officially launched! From RM80,149

FIRST DRIVE: 2019 Isuzu D-MAX 1.9 – “Blue Power”

Isuzu Malaysia offers ‘Adventures of a Lifetime’ to D-MAX customers

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