Angka-Tan Motor Sdn Bhd (ATM), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Berhad, has been appointed as the distributor of the Vigus Pro 4×4 pick-up truck made by Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd (JMC). This follows the signing of a Vehicle Technology Licensing agreement between the two companies in July last year.
Under the agreement, ATM has the sole right to manufacture, assemble and sell the JMC Vigus Pro 4×4 pick-up truck and related parts and components in Malaysia. For assembly, ATM would naturally use Tan Chong Motor Assemblies, which has already begun assembling the first batch of vehicles.
“We are pleased to announce that after more than 12 months of hard work, Angka-Tan Motor, in collaboration with Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd, is ready to introduce an exciting contender in the popular pick-up segment. The stylish and technologically advanced JMC Vigus Pro 4×4 pick-up truck has proven its mettle in the Chinese market and we can’t wait to share this new product with pick-up fans across Malaysia,” said Tan Keng Meng, CEO of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd.
“As a leading manufacturer and exporter of light commercial vehicles in China, we are thrilled to offer Malaysian consumers a versatile yet attractive pick-up truck engineered with the latest technologies. JMC has been standing as the second best-selling brand in the pick-up segment in China for many consecutive years. We would like to congratulate Angka-Tan Motor’s appointment as the official distributor of the JMC Vigus Pro 4×4 and to also express our appreciation to Warisan TC for their support in making this a reality,” said Xiong Chunying, President of Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd.
2-litre turbodiesel with 8-speed transmission
The Vigus Pro is powered by a 2-litre 4-cylinder VGT turbodiesel engine which has an output of 141 ps/340 Nm with claimed consumption of 12.8 kms/litre. Its drivetrain consists of an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and BorgWarner 4WD System with High and Low ranges, as well as an Eaton Rear Differential Lock.
For safety, there are active systems such as Bosch ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, and for safer reversing, a rearview camera is provided.
ATM plans to offer the Vigus Pro 4×4 at 13 sales and service outlets nationwide. Prices and specifications of the vehicle will be released later this month. Aftersales support is assured by a nationwide service network offering dedicated mobile service and 24/7 Res-Q response, backed by the resources of Tan Chong Group.
In the meantime, display units are available at ATM’s flagship showroom in Klang, Selangor. Bookings are also being accepted by authorised dealers which can be found at the JMC Malaysia website or by calling 03-3359 6068.
Pick-up trucks aren’t an Italian speciality and there are no models of note in this segment. However, when it comes to coachbuilding and customising vehicles, the Italians have a long history. Besides the well known names, there are also smaller outfits like MILITEM which creates automobiles for the premium-luxury market.
The company works exclusively with American vehicles and applies typical ‘Made in Italy’ craftsmanship. Its latest offering is the FEROX-T, a more upmarket truck that is referred to as a Spot Utility Truck (SUT). It is a premium luxury product and merges the ruggedness of its American background with the Italian flair.
Developed from Jeep model
The FEROX-T is developed from Jeep’s Gladiator Rubicon model, which already has all-terrain capability, a high-degree of functionality and versatility. It’s a fully engineered vehicle which combines the comfort of an SUV and the functionality of a pick-up.
What MILITEM has done is the enhance the characteristics of each and add a host of technical and content upgrades. In terms of performance and technical specifications, MILITEM would like to declare the FEROX-T as the ‘supercar among pick-ups’.
The bodywork has a strong, hi-tech and muscular image, unique in one sense but also maintaining the overall ‘family feeling’ of the MILITEM range. Features such as the brand’s emblematic honeycomb black grille (also available in carbonfibre), wide-body wheel arches (in carbonfibre or body-coloured) and MILITEM’s own 20-inch rims provide the exclusivity.
The FEROX roll-bar
A distinctive element is the FEROX Bar. This is a roll-bar which is more stylish than the original and allows the retractable LED headlights to be fitted. Also available as an option is the cargo bed in a hi-tech nautical material (customers can select their own colour).
The FEROX-T also has motorised retractable running boards, new smoked ‘Neutral fume’ front and rear lights, door rim puddle lights and can also be equipped with an LED lightbar in the front bumper. The two Black Performance tailpipes are in-house design features. They have a Dual-Mode function to enhance the SUT’s twin personality: a button on the centre console modifies the exhaust notes.
Comfortable, luxurious enclosure
The cabin is a comfortable and luxurious enclosure with refinement and high-grade materials. Customers get Italian leather upholstery on the seats fitted by hand and the option to select Alcantara inserts. Personalisation is, of course, possible with a wide range of leather, fabric (including denim) and technical fabrics.
The all-black detailing adds an extra touch of luxury and sportiness to the cabin. The centre console houses a button that activates the multi-coloured ambient lighting, another exclusive touch.
V6 power with Rock-Trac 4×4 system
The FEROX-T uses the same engine that comes with the Gladiator Rubicon, a 285 bhp/353 Nm 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine. An 8-speed automatic transmission and 4×4 Rock-Trac system drives all four wheels. MILITEM engineers have tuned the suspension and there are twin-tank dampeners in aluminium and finished in carbonfibre.
Pricing for the FEROX-T in Italy starts from 97,490 euros (about RM473,000) and the warranty in European markets is 36 months/100,000 kms but can be extended to 72 months with unlimited mileage.
Isuzu Malaysia’s customers can expect a safer and more immersive Isuzu experience in the era of the New Normal as the country continues on its journey to recovery from the pandemic. This is the promise from Kenkichi Sogo, the company’s new Light Commercial Vehicle Division’s Chief Operating Officer, as the continuing threat of infections necessitates the enforcement of various safety measures.
Among the measures Isuzu Malaysia has initiated has been the development of an online experience including a 360-degree augmented reality showcase offering prospects an immersive look into the design and features of the latest D-Max pick-up truck before they even need to step into the showrooms. Most shopping tools ranging from loan calculations to maintenance costs are interactively available at the website (pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my), allowing visitors to make informed choices before requesting online for a test drive vehicle to be brought to them at a safe and convenient location.
Procedures for vehicle servicing and maintenance have also been reviewed with the aim of ensuring minimal backlog and ensuring a smoother and efficient flow of vehicles brought in for servicing. Customers are encouraged to make their service appointments directly with their dealers early to ensure their preferred time slots are available.
With over 500 monthly bookings for the new D-Max since its launch, the task in hand will also be to safely hand over the vehicles to the customers. “Due to the restrictions in operations and the limited amount of logistics activities allowed over the past months, a key initiative will be to safely and efficiently deliver the new vehicles to their owners as quickly as possible. We hope all our customers will remain patient and maintain compliance to the set procedures to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all,” said Mr. Sogo.
He added that while the new D-Max has created a significant amount of interest and witnessed a surge in vehicle bookings over the past 3 months, resulting in Isuzu consecutively claiming the No.2 spot in its segment.
An Isuzu dealership in Taiping, Perak.
“The launch of our latest Isuzu D-Max model during the pandemic necessitated a paradigm shift in the way we presented our new models to prospective customers. As we move towards greater leniency, we need to vigilantly evolve yet remain relevant to the situation in our Gemba (operating environment),” said Mr. Sogo.
Mr. Sogo, 43, is no stranger to the Malaysian market. He spent the last 4 years in Isuzu Malaysia as General Manager overseeing operations of the light commercial vehicle division and parts operations. A graduate of Keio University in Japan, Mr. Sogo began his career in Mitsubishi Corporation in 2001 and has been involved with the Isuzu business for the past 7 years. He was appointed Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia as successor to Masayuki Suzuki, who has returned to the head office in Japan to take on a new position.
To know more about Isuzu vehicles and the locations of authorised dealers, visit www.isuzu.net.my.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) is constantly looking for ways to give its customers a better deal and for those who are interested in buying a new Ford Ranger WildTrak or XLT Plus model, there is now free scheduled servicing for the first two years of ownership.
Available for 2021 model year units, the 2-year free servicing package (terms and conditions apply) is available on a first come, first served basis (while stocks last). As with all Ranger models, the WildTrak and XLT Plus are backed by Ford’s new 5-year/160,000 kms manufacturer’s warranty.
“We’re constantly evolving to find ways to deliver more value-add to customers. The 2-year free service offer aims to provide peace of mind for customers, especially in these challenging times,” said Turse Zuhair, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.
“Additionally, virtual consultations with a Ford Ranger Specialist not only ensures customer safety amidst the ongoing pandemic, it also raises the level of personalised experience and convenience that customers are looking for,” he said.
He was referring to the company’s recent enhancement of its customer service with the introduction of the Ford Ranger Specialists. These are dedicated experts on the products who can help new and existing customers to be more familiar with the many vehicle features and benefits. By knowing more about their vehicle, they will be able to get the most out of their Rangers and enjoy using the pick-up truck.
There are two powertrain choices – a 213 ps/500 Nm 2-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission with the Ranger Wildtrak, and a 180 ps/420 Nm 2-litre Single-Turbo diesel engine with the Ranger XLT Plus.
Besides refinement that is above average for a pick-up truck, the Ranger Wildtrak also comes with very high safety standards. The smart safety technologies include first in-class features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking with Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning and Semi-Automatic Parallel Parking. There are also convenience features such as keyless entry with pushstart button and the Easy Lift Tailgate.
For more information, visit www.sdacford.com.my or send a WhatsApp message to +6019 204 1200. A Ford Ranger Specialist will respond to the message and provide assistance and information. Test-drives and viewing at showrooms are not available at this time due to ongoing MCO restrictions.
Despite the difficult market conditions that affect the auto industry, demand for new vehicles continues although perhaps not as strongly as usual at the moment. However, for Isuzu Malaysia, the D-MAX has been showing strong demand with orders for the pick-up truck rising by over 100%. This mirrors the situation in other markets where the vastly-improved model has been launched.
Since being launched in April this year, the third generation of the D-MAX has seen average monthly bookings of over 1,200 units. With the previous generation, Isuzu Malaysia received around 500 bookings each month. According to Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer, Masayuki Suzuki, this trend is identical in such markets as Australia, New Zealand and Thailand where sales growth have also multiplied. Many buyers have been impressed by the sporty and versatile vehicle which has a fresh design, enhanced ergonomics and improved engineering.
“This all-new D-MAX phenomenon that has swept the various markets has been somewhat overwhelming. Needless to say, the attractive design, new and improved features and proven Isuzu reputation contributed significantly towards convincing customers to switch or upgrade to this all-new D-MAX model with its excellent value and a generous suite of features,” he said.
Lower roadtax with 1.9-litre engine size
The 1.9-litre D-MAX Premium with automatic transmission has been the most popular choice, accounting for close to 36% percent of the bookings. Although its 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine, fully compatible with Malaysia biodiesel, has a displacement which is the lowest in the market yet, the actual output is comparable to bigger engines. The engine size also makes the D-MAX popular especially to those in Peninsular Malaysia as the annual roadtax is significantly lower. In fact, 61% of overall sales have been in Peninsular Malaysia, a reverse of the traditional 60:40 balance where East Malaysia absorbed a bigger share of the vehicles.
Two turbodiesel engine choices for the latest D-MAX. The engines have been tuned to run efficiently on biodiesel sold throughout Malaysia.
D-MAX X-Terrain – the flagship truck
The new flagship model – the X-Terrain – powered by an improved 3-litre turbodiesel engine that offers significantly more refinement and performance. It accounts for some 17% of the total D-MAX and, despite the higher roadtax applicable, more than half of all the X-Terrain sales have come from Peninsular Malaysia.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems include Rear Cross Traffic Alert which is useful when reversing out of a parking bay as vehicle approaching from either side can be detected even though the driver’s view may be obstructed.
Passenger car features in comfortable cabin
Part of the reason, apart from having comparable features to a passenger car, is the comfort and refinement in the cabin. The superior handling both on and off road also make it particularly popular with lifestyle buyers. And safety too is not forgotten as Isuzu has provided Advanced Driving Assistance Systems to help the driver avoid accidents or reduce the effects of collisions if they cannot be avoided.
While the all-new Isuzu D-Max has made inroads into the lifestyle segment with its appealing new design and ergonomics, 81% of new owners have stated that they would utilize their trucks for both work too, underlining the inherently robust nature of Isuzu products.
“The response to this new model has been extremely positive considering the limited opportunities `prospects have had to fully experience the new model due to the strict movement controls and safety protocols. Our current aim is to ensure the smooth, safe and timely delivery of vehicles to our customers despite the various administrative and logistical concerns faced domestically and globally,” said Mr. Suzuki.
To find out more about why the latest D-MAX is a true game-changer and the variety of variants available to suit different requirements and budgets, visit the Isuzu D-MAX website at pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my or their Facebook page.
Non-profit organisations (NGOs) carry out a lot of work which involves travelling to and in areas where the roads may be poor, or may not exist. Typically, they will bring various forms of aid, especially food for those who are victims of poverty or natural disasters. INSAF Malaysia is one such NGO which runs several programs to transport food items.
To help them with their mission, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia recently contributed a Triton 4×4 pick-up truck to INSAF Malaysia. The pick-up truck, a popular model in the market, will be useful for the distribution of food bank, lunch box and rice bags to orphanages and welfare homes, as well as ‘Meals on Wheels’ where food is distributed to old folks who have been abandoned or live alone. The NGO also builds shelter homes for those hit by natural disasters and urgently need a roof above their heads.
Promoting sustainable economy, society and environment
“Our CSR vision for this year is ‘Inspiring Lives Today for a Greater Future’. While our missions are to implement CSR activities that provides aid to support underprivileged children, and to collaborate with NGOs in promoting a sustainable economy, society and environment. So when we found out that INSAF Malaysia’s humanitarian efforts is constantly striving for voluntarily action, we want to support their work by contributing a Triton pick-up truck in hopes that the NGO can go beyond the distance and to help more underprivileged families,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.
After receiving the Triton on behalf of INSAF Malaysia, its President and Founder, Ishak Bin Abdul Kadir, said: “We have been witnessing a dangerous trend from the number of people suffering from malnutrition and food insecurity, especially during this pandemic. Hunger is on the rise in Malaysia as we’ve seen lot of breadwinners lose their source of income which leads to the inability to put food on the table. We are doing all that we can to make sure children or families don’t go to bed hungry hence we are so glad to have companies like Mitsubishi Motors reach out to us to offer help. The contribution of the Triton pick-up truck is timely, practical and very much appreciated.”
Popular pick-up truck
The Triton provided is one of the six variants available, all imported from Thailand in CBU (completely built-up form). The model has been among the popular pick-up trucks in the Malaysian market for many years. Early last month, the Athlete version was introduced which takes over from the Adventure X as the flagship of the range. In Peninsular Malaysia, prices start from RM100,200 for the variants with 4×4 and RM79,890 with 4×2.
While official industry sales data for April 2021 has not been released by the Malaysia Automotive Association, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) believes that its strong sales performance during the month would put it among the top 3 positions in the non-national brand rankings for the fourth consecutive month.
The brand’s sales have been on an upward trajectory since the year began and April saw a historical high with 1,872 vehicles sold. The major contributor was the XPANDER MPV which accounted for 52% of the total sales volume. Since being launched in the Malaysian market, MMM has collected more than 10,000 bookings for the model which is assembled in Pekan, Pahang.
Increased XPANDER production
“We are very pleased that the Mitsubishi XPANDER sales remain healthy and its demand is ahead of the number of units supplied. Despite the challenges we are facing with the recently announced Movement Control Order (MCO) or even with the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) prior to MCO, we are continuing our best efforts to meet with the strong demand for the XPANDER by increasing our production capacity while maintaining a high level of product quality,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.
Triton maintains strong position
The Triton pick-up truck is the other strong seller in the range locally, maintaining a market share close to 20%. The company delivered 680 units in April. including 142 units of the new Triton Athlete.
The Triton Athlete was launched in early April as the flagship of the pick-up range, taking over from the Adventure X variant. It is powered by a 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel engine which produces 181 ps/430 Nm. Priced from RM141,500 (without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia), it comes with a factory warranty of 5 years, or maximum of 200,000 kms after registration.
“Although there was a decline in many economic sectors and the environmental sentiments starts to take a toll on people caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are relieved to see our sales remain optimistic and constantly moving towards a positive direction. We are aware that a large number of our customers aim to purchase their cars before the SST exemption expires by end of June. Despite the challenges of supply constraints, Mitsubishi Motors is working our best to meet the expectation of our customers on the delivery preference,” Mr. Shinnishi added.
Besides the XPANDER and Triton, MMM also sells the Outlander SUV which is also assembled locally at the Tan Chong plant in Kuala Lumpur. It is available in two variants with a choice of 2-litre of 2.5-litre engines.
This seems to be the month of the pick-up truck (at least for readers in Malaysia) as we have yet another new model to tell you about, following the new Nissan Navara and Isuzu D-MAX. This one is from Hyundai Motor, which has never before offered a modern pick-up truck, although it has had light commercial vehicles with a flat bed at the back.
Santa Cruz is the name of Hyundai’s pick-up truck which it refers to as a ‘Sport Adventure Vehicle’ (BMW refers to its SUVs as Sports Activity Vehicles) and it comes after some 20 years of internal debate. As far back as the early 2000s, the company was looking for a single vehicle for the ASEAN region, and like Ford, it saw big numbers of a pick-up truck. However, it never went on to develop a model until now.
Monocoque, not chassis frame
With the Santa Cruz, the focus market seems to be the USA which is the largest market in the world for such vehicles. And like the Honda Ridgeline, the platform is a monocoque type with a unitary structure like a passenger car; typical pick-up truck construction uses a chassis frame. The Honda has been around for some 15 years, sold mostly in North America, and is currently in its second generation so the approach probably has some validity.
Hyundai doesn’t highlight the monocoque structure, perhaps because it could be perceived as a weakness as chassis frames are tougher, or maybe customers just won’t care anyway – the same way that today’s SUV buyers are not too bothered by not having AWD. Instead, it elaborates on the driving dynamics of the vehicle which can be expected to be better than traditional pick-ups.
Big engines for US market
As the primary market is to be North America, a big engine is no problem and a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder direct-injection unit is available with or without turbocharging. The former produces around 190 bhp/244 Nm while the turbocharged unit generates 275+ bhp/420 Nm. Like most of Hyundai’s models, it is fitted with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission which is the company’s own development.
There is AWD with a system called HTRAC, a multi-mode system providing an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles. The system has a wide range of torque distribution variability, tuned for conditions such as straight-line acceleration, medium and high-speed cornering, and hill starts.
Smaller than a Toyota Hilux
Compared to a Toyota Hilux double cab, the Santa Cruz is a small vehicle as it is 4970 mm in length and 1905 mm in width, while the Toyota is 5325 mm in overall length and 1855 mm wide. The wheelbase is also 80 mm shorter, so the Santa Cruz is small by American pick-up standards.
The size of the vehicle was probably influenced by the target buyers which are mainly in urban areas, so a more compact size would be appreciated. Hyundai’s studies found that ,any of these potential customers carry gear which would be more convenient to store in the large open bed of a truck, than an enclosed SUV.
The Santa Cruz has therefore been designed to offer versatile transportation that is equally flexible for urban, adventure, occupational or even home improvement gear. To keep the cargo safe, there is a lockable tonneau cover as well as a hidden bed storage.
Dual cockpit design like a car
The interior of the Santa Cruz is designed like a passenger car with an enveloping dual-cockpit design that encapsulates each passenger. There is a rugged undertone to the cabin, with a modern the technical ambience that appeals to those who appreciate cutting-edge technologies in their daily lives. Under the rear seats is storage space to supplement the space on the open bed.
The Santa Cruz was primarily developed in the Korean carmaker’s American design studio and to emphasise that, the rear tail lamps are embossed with tiny ‘Designed in California’ wording. The new model will be made in Hyundai’s factory in America, with deliveries starting in the second half of this year.
Hyundai Sime Darby Motors has a wide range of models already and we hear that some more are coming, but it is very unlikely the Santa Cruz will be one of them. The model will probably be only lefthand drive and with already established players in the segment, it would be hard for a newcomer to attract enough buyers to support a business case to sell it.
Towards the end of March, we previewed the new Nissan Navara and at that time, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) only showed one variant – the flagship Navara PRO-4X. But that is obviously not all there is to the range for the latest ‘Mothertrucker’, as ETCM nicknamed it. In fact, the range consists of 6 variants, all imported from Thailand in CBU (completely built-up) form with prices starting from RM91,900 and topping out at RM142,400 (for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia, excluding insurance).
Prices shown are for private registration and do not include insurance premiums.
The wide range is intended to cater to different budgets and usage requirements. While the Navara is usually advertised as a lifestyle machine for private use, it is also just as capable as a workhorse. However, those who buy it for business purposes are likely to use it in rough conditions and won’t care much for fancy features. All they want is a tough, well-built truck that can haul heavy loads and keeps running instead of spending downtime in a workshop. All variants of the new Nissan model come with a warranty of 5 years or 150,000 kms (whichever comes first).
For such commercial customers, ETCM offers two lower-priced variants with simpler equipment and 6-speed manual transmission, one of which is a single cab. While the 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine is the same for all variants, the one for these two variants has different tuning which produces an output of 163 ps/403 Nm. The engine for the other four variants produces 190 ps/450 Nm and all these variants have a 7-speed automatic transmission.
Apart from the bolder, more dominating appearance of the front end, the new Navara (except for the Single Cab) has a new rear Multilink Suspension with dual-rate coil springs that reduce body toss motion; Electronic Locking Rear Differential that allows the left and right wheels to rotate as a unit; Tailgate Assist that helps to lighten opening and closing operation; Integrated Rear Bumper Step that makes bed access easier; and acoustic laminated glass for the front windscreen and front windows to make things quieter in the cabin.
Like all modern pick-up trucks, active safety is comparable to what you get in a passenger car. There’s ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control and Traction Control, an Active Brake Limited Slip Differential, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. The last three systems would be especially useful during off-road driving.
For the Navara PRO-4X Auto, VL Auto and V Auto variants, active safety goes on step further with Nissan Intelligent Mobility advanced driver assistance features. These systems monitor the road ahead and warn the driver if there is a possible collision risk. If the driver fails to do the right thing – ie decelerate, brake or take avoiding action – then the computer will apply the brakes automatically to prevent the collision.
Other assistance features include an Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Off-Road Mode, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert which helps during reversing out of a parking bay. And should a tyre lose air, the driver will be made aware of it, which can be useful when driving off-road.
For those who want to personalise their Navara further, ETCM has a range of exclusive factory-fitted accessories and they come with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty. There are four packages, ranging in price from RM3,200 to RM10,950, depending on the variant. The good thing is that this extra cost can be included in the total financing amount and repaid over the same number of years for the H-P loan. Incidentally, ETCM has a Flexi Financing promotion where the monthly instalment for the Navara Single Cab can start at RM670.
Visit www.nissan.com.my to locate an authorised Nissan showroom in Malaysia where you can view and test drive the new Navara.
Although there are a number of choices, the Toyota Hilux has been dominant in the regional pick-up truck market for many years. However, in some markets like Thailand (the second largest truck market in the world), it faces a strong challenge from the Isuzu D-MAX. The numbers can be close in some months, which has encouraged Isuzu to try harder and offer a better product to win more customers.
It has done this with the new third generation and Malaysia is the fifth country to launch this latest generation which made its debut in Thailand. We understand that its arrival in Malaysia is earlier than what was expected. The Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia’s Light Commercial Division, Masayuki Suzuki, said that the fast-tracked launch of the all-new D-MAX was made possible through the support of Isuzu Motors Ltd that views Malaysia as a strategic market.
“We are extremely thrilled that this impressive all-new Isuzu D-MAX has been made available in Malaysia much earlier than expected. It stands as testament to the strong commitment from Isuzu Motors towards ensuring that the Malaysian market enjoys the latest selection of choice Isuzu vehicles,” he said.
Powertrain choices – 1.9 litres or 3.0 litres
It is available in single or double cab bodystyles and powered with a choice of two turbodiesel 4-cylinder commonrail engines – the award-winning RZ-4E 1.9-litre powerplant or a revised 4JJ-3TCX 3-litre engine. Pricing of the seven variants available is between RM88,599 to RM141,938 (excluding insurance).
Prices shown are for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia. Insurance is not included.
Strong road presence with sportiness
While undergoing a full model change, the overall appearance of the new D-MAX retains many of the styling elements that identify it as an Isuzu product. Developed on a design theme of bold and sporty, it continues to have a strong road presence while presenting a more athletic and dynamic stance.
The large unitary bumper design improves airflow and minimizes the coefficient of friction, thanks to the lessons learned in the same wind tunnel that shaped Japan’s famed Shinkansen bullet trains. To further improve aerodynamics and also improve wet-weather visibility, aerofoil wipers are fitted in the X-Terrain model. These wipers can be manually or automatically operated and feature the washer nozzle integrated into the wiper arm, providing a smoother and cleaner wash.
The overall dimensions have been increased with a 30 mm longer wheelbase and to further achieve the sleek silhouette, the bonnet height has been raised 15 mm while the door sill has also been raised 20 mm. The roof line has been lowered by 10 mm giving the vehicle its sporty profile. With the increased wheelbase, cabin access is easier through the larger rear door opening that has been increased by 25 mm.
Cabin spaciousness is improved in almost every aspect with better seating comfort for the rear passengers. They also get cool air delivered to them through dedicated vents and can recharge their devices with a USB port rated at 2.1A for quicker charging.
Improved interior with latest features
Since the first generation, the D-MAX interior has had a passenger car-like feel and the latest generation enhances this in design and functions. The dashboard has trim edges with an accentuated stitching effect to give a sense of craftsmanship while many of the interior trim accents are finished in satin chrome for a clean, classy look.
The interior designers revised the driving position to be more sporty (with a smaller steering wheel and 8-way power adjustment) and the driver can now reach the centre console more easily as its surface is higher and it is also wider. The automatic transmission selector has been shortened with reduced travel and the selector itself features a lighted gear indicator, the first in its class to boast this premium feature.
Using a large 4.2-inch high-definition TFT-LCD display flanked by the speedometer and tachometer, the Multi Information Display (MID) presents vital information on the vehicle functions. In the D-MAX X-Terrain, it also highlights the various driving situations, particularly the Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) functions and warnings.
Complementing the MID is the new infotainment display in the central console. Featuring a 7-inch WXGA display in the Premium variant and a 9-inch display in the X-Terrain, the system has Apple Carplay and Android Auto as well as Bluetooth connectivity and voice commands can also be used for handsfree operation.
In the past, things like the audio system were very basic in pick-ups but not today. The system in the new D-MAX has 8 speakers with ceiling-mounted tweeters, dash-top tweeters and new 6x9s mounted in the front doors. The good sound quality would certainly make motoring more enjoyable.
The seats in the D-MAX have been completely redesigned to not only provide better comfort and support but also give greater whiplash protection. The backrest springs use a new design that disperses body pressure more evenly while the cushion has dual density padding with a softer centre section and stiffer bolsters, giving better support without sacrificing comfort. The seat cushion pads also feature Anti Vibration Elastic Comfort foam that can absorb vibrations more quickly than conventional cushion material.
The tailgate is a heavy panel that is partly that way because it is sometimes used to support a heavy load. To lessen the opening and closing effort, there is a Tailgate Assist feature (in the X-Terrain) that uses dampers to soften the opening action and also assist in closing. The sliding cargo tray that has appreciated by many owners is now standard.
Two powertrain choices
The 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel engine made its appearance in the previous D-MAX and has already proven that downsizing is not a disadvantage at all. In fact, it has even better performance, thanks to advanced technologies. But the Isuzu engineers have not stopped making it better and the latest version in the new D-MAX has a new turbocharger to give better response and improved top-end performance.
As for the 4JJ3-TCX engine which has a 3-litre displacement, this has also been improved to deliver extra power but run more efficiently and quietly. It is also said to have greater durability compared to the previous generation engine. The air intake has now been moved from the fender to below the bonnet allowing for ram-air effect and to allow the engine to draw cooler and more dense air.
Both Isuzu turbodiesel engines are fully compatible and tuned to run on the latest Euro5 B7 and B10 fuels.
Customers can choose either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, depending on the variant. New ratios offer better delivery of power to the ground, capitalizing on the new power characteristics of the engines. The new manual transmissions now feature a ring detent on the gear lever to prevent accidental engagement of reverse gear.
New too is the Terrain Command dial, now positioned on the dashboard for quicker access. Its operation is said to be one of the quickest in the market with switching between 2H and 4H taking only 0.61 seconds (vs 1.94 seconds previously). The X-Terrain also benefits from having a differential lock as standard. Actuation is via a button next to the gear selector and the solenoid activates a dog clutch that locks the rear differential in 4L, sending power equally to its 265/60 R18 rear tyres for added traction. The system automatically disengages when the vehicle exceeds 30 km/h to prevent damage to the drivetrain.
Adding to its off-roading prowess, the D-MAX can easily cross water up to 800 mm deep, which is almost double its previous wading capability. The underside of the vehicle is also better protected with a 1.5 mm steel skidplate up front where the vehicle is most susceptible to damage, a 6 mm steel sump guard to protect the engine and gearbox, and a 5 mm reinforced resin wind deflector for a final layer of protection. These and the ground clearance of 240 mm (for models with 18-inch wheels) contribute to the all-terrain capabilities of the D-MAX.
A better chassis and structure
In areas that cannot be seen, much engineering work has been done to improve the durability and go-anywhere capability of the D-MAX. The tougher chassis is the largest in the 1-ton pick-up segment while the 8 crossmembers – the most among its competitors – help improve torsional rigidity by 20% and longitudinal rigidity by 26%. Greater rigidity is better for driving dynamics and as the structure does not shake so much, the vehicle’s overall durability is improved.
If comparing to the previous D-MAX, drivers will notice it corners with minimal body roll. This is something that is inherent in trucks but the Isuzu engineers have made adjustments to the suspension settings that result in a more dynamic feel that will give confidence during fast cornering.
With the extension of the wheelbase, the engine is positioned further back in the chassis. Not only does this provide more room for the crumple zone, it also places more weight behind the front wheels for better handling. The further benefit is a shorter linkage to the gearbox allowing for more precise and quicker shifts.
To improve durability, the propeller shaft is now made of aluminium which not only saves 4 kgs but also has less inertia, thereby reducing torque lash resulting in longer life for the drivetrain. To further reduce unsprung weight, the rear suspension now has 3 leafsprings instead of the previous four. The ride has also improved with increased travel, newly-designed springs and the repositioning of the shock absorber top mount.
Top-class safety
With a maximum 5-star safety rating from ASEAN NCAP, the new D-Max offers superior protection to the occupants as well as other road users. Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) are available in selected variants and these use a stereo camera and radar to scan the road ahead. Other sensors detect the presence of vehicles in the blind spot, and help the driver to remain aware of possible dangers that can result in an accident.
Besides autonomous emergency braking when necessary (if the driver does not act to prevent a collision), the D-MAX can also offer some degree of autonomous motoring. This is possible by the Adaptive Control which keeps a safe distance from a vehicle in front and can operate right down to standstill, and restart automatically. However, the driver still needs to pay attention and be ready to act when necessary.
Incidentally, the brakes have been upgraded with larger 320 mm diameter and 30 mm thick disc rotors up front while the rear drums have increased swept area to provide better all-round performance, improved heat dissipation for longer service life and quieter performance.
The length of a pick-up truck can be daunting for many people, especially those new to using such vehicles. Isuzu makes it less stressful when parking with not only a rearview camera but there is also Rear Cross Traffic Alert to help when reversing out of a parking bay. If a vehicle is approaching from either side, the driver will be alerted.
Remote Start used to be a feature that, in movies, was for the owner to start the engine from a distance in case there was a bomb under the car. However, in the real world, such a feature is used for something much less fatal. In the D-MAX, it can be used to start the engine and by doing so, the air-conditioner can also be activated to cool down the cabin. So when you get in, things should be cooler and more comfortable. In the event the owner forgets the engine has been started, it will automatically shut down after 10 minutes. Of course, while it is running, the doors remain locked unless the owner (with the remote control key fob) opens the doors.
“The all-new Isuzu D-Max has made scores of new fans in the markets it has been introduced in and I believe that the same will happen here in Malaysia. This new model evokes a new level of interest in owning and driving a pick-up truck and I am confident that those who take delivery of this new D-MAX will be very satisfied,” said Mr. Suzuki.
For more information on the new D-MAX visit www.isuzu.net.my or any authorised dealership in Malaysia.
