pick-up Archives

New 2021 Nissan Navara revealed!

Nissan today unveiled to the world its new Navara pick-up, updating the current one which was introduced in 2014. As with its other pick-up models, the Navara benefits from over 80 years of experience making such vehicles which have become popular in many regions of the planet.

Described as the most advanced Navara yet, the new Navara comes with many best-in-class technologies, including an array of Nissan Intelligent Mobility features and safety systems. “We packaged the new model with a full set of advanced technologies to ensure enhanced dynamic performance on and off-road, as well as safety and comfort ushering in a new age of toughness, tech, and peace of mind,” said Ashwani Gupta, Nissan’s Chief Operating Officer.

While the familiar tough looks of the Navara continue, it has also been given a bolder appearance. The front end adopts carries the new ‘interlock’ grille – a unique feature found exclusively on the Nissan pickup family and first introduced on the latest Nissan Titan – which gives the impression that it is coming out and ‘grabbing’ the engine.

Distinctive LED headlamps
Besides the model name embossed on top of the grille and across the full width of the rear door panel, the Navara also has a segment-first all-new, high-tech C-shaped quad LED projector headlamps. Each of the four distinctive projector units have their own intricate bezel shape, giving a visual signature to the vehicle

Apart from adding a level of sophistication to the rugged design, they also provide greater illumination, which would definitely be appreciated when driving off-road or in bad weather. At the back, the LED tail lamps with their greater brightness also help improve safety as the vehicle’s presence will be more visible.

Body-on-frame construction
The new Navara continues to use body-on-frame construction, with the cabin and cargo bed being separate units that are bolted onto a strong chassis frame. This has been the traditional construction for pick-up trucks and also SUVs, although the latter have moved towards monocoque construction (like passenger cars) in recent times.

Body-on-frame construction is still regarded as being more suited for the sort of usage that the Navara would typically have. It not only copes better with rough terrain but can also handle heavy loads. It has an increased payload capacity which Nissan says is the best in the 1-ton class.

There’s also a strengthened rear axle and additional truck bed volume (depending on region), as well as retuned suspension settings. An integrated step in the new rear bumper makes bed access easier and reduces fatigue caused by repeated loading and unloading. Additionally, the bed is equipped with a flap-type, tie-down hook to secure both large and small objects, making it easier for loading and unloading without interference.

New PRO-4X grade for the Navara comes with distinctive look with a black Nissan emblem, a black front bumper and black grille, door handles, roof racks and running boards accented by 17-inch black wheels and all-terrain tyres. It also has lively, orange-red accents, a tint inspired by the colour of magma, contrasted with the dark grille, wheels, and mirror caps.

Powertrains to be carried over
Nissan has not mentioned the powertrains that will be available but does say that there will be ‘carried-over powertrain options’. Thus it is likely that the YS engines will continue to be used, these being proven over a 10-year life. They are used by Alliance members in light commercial vehicles and for such vehicles, proven reliability is more important to customers than having new technologies.

The current engine line-up consists of a 2.5-litre petrol engine from the QR family and 2.3-litre turbodiesel engines, with 7-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions. This will probably be the same for the new Navara although one cannot discount the downsizing trend which may see a smaller displacement engine being available for some markets.

*One of the Nissan turbodiesel engines in the current Navara.*

Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies
As in other new Nissan models, Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) technologies are highlighted as the big thing in the new Navara. These are technologies which create a ‘360-degree safety shield’ for the vehicle, as well as helping the driver to avoid accidents.

NIM technologies include Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning as well as Intelligent Driver Alertness, which prompts drivers to take breaks through visual and gives audible alerts when changes in driving style or steering behaviour are detected.

Many vehicles now come with a display that shows a simulated overhead view so the driver can see all around when manoeuvring. The new Navara also has this, which is called the Intelligent Around View Monitor. However, NIM technologies add something else that enhances safety – Moving Object Detection. This helps drivers notice people and other vehicles surrounding or approaching the vehicle.

The system also features an off-road monitor, enabling the driver to observe surrounding obstacles at low speeds when in 4×4. This gives the driver more confidence when travelling over rough terrain and can help avoid damage to the bodywork.

Besides the rearview camera, there is also Rear Cross Traffic Alert which uses sensors to detect vehicles coming from either side when reversing out of a parking bay. This will be an especially useful feature for pick-up drivers as the vehicle is long, and will reduce the stress (as well as accidents).

The pickup also comes with new automatic safety and convenience features such as a rain-sensing wiper and a speed-sensing door lock that activates when the vehicle speed exceeds 25 km/h.

While driving, there is an Active Brake Limited Slip Differential system to improve grip and stability. It does this by managing power delivery and wheel braking between the front and rear axles and between the left and right of the vehicle. There’s also a Vehicle Dynamic Control system to help in keeping the car under control on slippery corners, and ABS to prevent wheel lock-up.

Added convenience and comfort
Inside, the new Navara gains added convenience and new features that are driver-oriented to make driving more enjoyable and comfortable. The rear seats are more comfortable, with upgrades to the seat cushions and back shapes. Interior quietness is also claimed to be significantly improved with increased amounts of sound deadening insulation and a laminated windshield and front windows.

The new Nissan Connect infotainment system meets the needs of modern travellers, providing Bluetooth streaming audio, voice recognition, and navigation. Everything is shown on an 8-inch screen, with a 7-inch higher resolution TFT screen complementing it. Besides having multiple USB ports throughout the vehicle for charging devices, there is also a Type-C USB port in the console, allowing more modern devices to be recharged.

Made in Thailand, Mexico and South Africa
For the ASEAN and Australian markets, the new Navara will be produced at Nissan’s plant in Thailand, which is also its strategic manufacturing and R&D hub for ASEAN. The first market to receive the new model will, not surprisingly, be Thailand which is the second largest truck market in the world. Other production hubs for the model will be in Mexico and South Africa, starting later on.

As Edaran Tan Chong Motor stopped assembling the model locally with the current generation, the new one should be available in Malaysia more quickly, probably in the first half of 2021. With local assembly, there’s a delay as local parts suppliers start up and the plant has to be prepared for the new model, not to mention the fact that the CKD kits from the overseas factory may also be available only at a later time.

If you prefer the current Navara, Edaran Tan Chong Motor should still be selling it for some time more. Viewing and test-drives are available at authorised Nissan showrooms and their locations can be found at www.nissan.com.my.

New Nissan brand logo for a new era

The Hummer returns… as an EV supertruck with 1,000 horsepower (w/VIDEO)

Hummer – that’s a name which immediately brings to mind a huge vehicle that served the military (mainly the American one) as well as the civilian version which had a niche of its own. ‘Hummer’ was actually the civilian name used by General Motors but the model was discontinued after 2009 when its sales diminished so much that the business was no longer viable.

Although GM tried to sell off the business, it did not succeed and just kept it in the ‘drawer’. Now, that name has been revived with a completely new model from its GMC subsidiary. However, unlike the original fuel-guzzling monster, the new Hummer not only doesn’t require conventional fuel at all but it is also a zero emissions vehicle.

Electric supertruck
GMC engineers have developed it as an electric supertruck with the company’s Ultium Drive and batteries. An estimated best-in-class 1,000 horsepower and estimated 15,592 Nm of torque are generated by three separate motors within two Ultium drive units that provide 4WD capability. 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration is claimed to be around 3 seconds which is pretty quick for a pick-up though that can be expected of a super EV truck.

800V DC fast-charging compatibility of up to 350 kilowatts enables nearly 160 kms of range to be available after recharging for 10 minutes. A full battery back is said to be good for up to 550 kms.

Superior off-road capabilities
Aiming to out-do other electric trucks that are also appearing lately, the Hummer has 4-Wheel Steering, Adaptive Air Suspension with 149 mm of variation, and underbody armour. The 4-Wheel Steering system has CrabWalk which allows the rear wheels and front wheels to steer at the same angle at low speeds. This enables diagonal movement of the vehicle for greater manoeuvrability on difficult terrain.

As standard, the Hummer comes with 35-inch MT tyres and customers can specify up to 37 inches. The tyres complement the vehicle’s off-road capability which includes climbing vertical obstacles 455 mm high and driving through water more than 600 mm deep.

For crossing difficult and unknown terrain, the Hummer has UltraVision, a system of front and rear underbody cameras with live ‘virtual spotter’ views to help drivers spot obstacles and place wheels on and off the trail. There are up to 18 camera views available from the vehicle.

Prepared for autonomous motoring, the Hummer will have optional Super Cruise, a driver assistance feature that can support hands-free driving on more than 322,000 kms of enabled roads. There will also be a new automatic lane-changing feature where the system can determine when a lane change is optimal and initiate the manoeuvre, while following signalling protocols.

Minimal original design elements
GMC’s designers drawn minimally on the original model’s monolithic appearance, instead aiming for something that looks futuristic and bold with a pick-up profile. “Its design visually communicates extreme capability, which is reinforced with rugged architectural details,” said Phil Zak, Design Executive Director.

Emphasis on technology
The interior is also given premium appointments and as expected, technology is emphasised. For example, off-road widgets display vehicle functions and terrain status through the infotainment and driver information screens. The driver can be informed of torque output, differential locker engagement, tyre pressures, pitch and roll angles, friction circle, torque vectoring and more.

Open-air driving is an option, made possible by the Infinity Roof and removable transparent Sky Panels that can be stowed in the storage compartment at the front of the vehicle. The MultiPro Tailgate opens with 6 functional positions, while the glass panel at the rear of the cabin and the tonneau cover can be opened at the touch of a switch as both are powered.

4 versions, starting from late 2021
There will be at least 4 versions of the Hummer with the first one known as Edition 1 going on sale in the fourth quarter of 2021. This will be the most expensive version at US$112,595 (about RM467,000) and will be the only one available for at least 12 months. Another version will be launched in late 2022 which is currently projected to cost less than US$100,000 (RM414,000).

In early 2023, the third version will be available, and then a fourth version will be in showrooms a year later, in 2024. The fourth version will have two motors and be priced at under US$80,000 (RM332,000).

GM looking forward to all-electric future with Ultium batteries

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!

Mid-cycle upgrades for Toyota Hilux and Fortuner

As the decade of the 2000s began, Toyota started the IMV (Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicle) program to develop a range of dual-purpose products that could be produced efficiently in large volumes at selected locations outside Japan. It was a bold venture, comparable to the development of the Lexus brand and products, as it transferred virtually all product development and manufacturing away from Japan.

The IMV program had 3 models – the Hilux, Fortuner and Innova – and they have all done well around the world in the markets they were targeted at. Two generations have been produced with the second generation which was introduced in 2015 now getting an upgrade at what is considered the midlife of the product cycle. That suggests that the cycle will be 10 years or so, which was the length of the previous generation.

The upgrades, announced for the Hilux and Fortuner, typically refresh the appearances while introducing multiple improvements to engine, driving and towing performance.

Improved engine
The most significant changes are under the skin where new and revised engine components result in noticeable gains to output with sizeable cuts to fuel consumption.

New and uprated components have resulted in an even more robust 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (1GD-FTV), enabling maximum power to rise to 201 bhp/500 Nm, While delivering impressive gains of 27 bhp and 50 Nm, additional measures including improved cooling have enabled fuel consumption to be reduced across the board, particularly in city driving where the improvement is said to be more than 17%.

The Hilux range retains the 2.4-litre turbodiesel and 2.7-litre petrol engines along with the choice of three transmissions, 4×2 and 4×4 drive. Suspension upgrades – including revised shock-absorber tuning, new bushings and improved leafspring design – improved ride comfort, particularly over rough roads and with low loads while maintaining the legendary off-road capabilities.

In the 4×4 models with downhill-assist control, an additional traction control feature when using 2WD mode reroutes torque to assist grip in muddy or grassy conditions on worksites.

Greater towing capability
Towing capacity for the automatic 4×4 Hilux has been upgraded to a maximum of 3500 kgs to match the manual versions. On 4×2 variants, all diesel automatics are now rated at 2800 kgs, an increase of up to 300 kgs. The upgraded Fortuner has a 300 kg increase in the maximum braked towing capacity which takes it to 3,100 kgs.

Toyota Fortuner Legender — *Legender version of the new Fortuner (for Thai market).*

Refreshed looks
For the updated Fortuner, the cosmetic changes are a unique surround for the larger black grille, restyled bumpers with a ‘skid-plate design’ below the front bumper, more prominent foglamp bezels, and slimmer headlamps upgraded to LEDs. New LED taillight clusters are also available in some variants.

The refreshed exterior styling of the Hilux maintains the tough, robust on-road presence of the highly popular pick-up model, in keeping with the global Toyota truck family. It projects a stronger presence with a large trapezoidal grille that dominates the front design and incorporates more pronounced horizontal elements that deliver a wider, more planted look. The grille surrounds differ by variant while there are newly designed headlights which are smaller for a ‘meaner’ look. LED lighting systems are available on some variants.

Inside, both models have been upgraded with the adoption of an 8-inch display for the infotainment system which has enhanced voice recognition and the latest smartphone integration functions. These include including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so smartphone apps can be accessed from the dashboard.

A 4.2-inch multi-information display in the instrument binnacle incorporates a digital speed readout, among other new functions.

While the primary production hub for the Hilux and Fortuner is at the Toyota factory in Thailand, it is also locally assembled in some countries, Malaysia being one of them. Under normal non-pandemic conditions, there would be some extra time needed before the new models are assembled due to sourcing and preparation of parts from local suppliers for the Malaysian models.

With the interruption by the months-long Movement Control Order that suspended virtually all activities, the schedules would have changed so it’s hard to say when these new models will be in showrooms.

Click here for other news and articles about Toyota.

Mitsubishi Triton stays strong in the pick-up truck segment

The all-new Mitsubishi Triton drew a lot of attention with its bold new appearance and those looks (and, of course, its reputation as a very capable truck) must have persuaded many people to want to own one. In fact, sales of the pick-up truck have continued to grow since its launch in January last year (although it was previewed in late 2018 at the KL International Motor Show). It accounted for 71% of MMM’s sales, with the remainder being the Outlander and ASX SUVs.

Although sales of new pick-up trucks in Malaysia fell by 21% in 2019, with the total volume of locally-assembled models dropping by 27.1% as companies scaled back production in the light of reduced demand, Mitsubishi’s Triton registered an increase of 2.4% (compared to 2018) during the year with 5,792 units sold. The higher volume also captured a market share that was 3.8% more at 16.5%.

The momentum has continued into 2020 with Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) reporting that its January sales achieved an all-time high market share for the past 10 years at 22.8%. The company didn’t provide the actual sales volume and as the monthly report from Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) is delayed, we can’t determine those numbers.

Additionally, MMM says the Triton was the model in the pick-up segment that achieved positive growth and, with over 4,300 units delivered, expanded its overall sales with a 1.6% increase from April 2019 to January 2020, comparing to the same period last financial year. MMM’s Financial Year calendar is from April 2019 to March 2020.

“We are happy that we closed 2019 and began 2020 strong with the Mitsubishi Triton that has managed to capture the hearts of Malaysians with the DNA of the best handling pick-up truck. With the achievement of ranking number one in JD Power 2019 Malaysia Customer Service Index (CSI), we are committed to deliver top-notch service to all our customers,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.

The Triton, imported as a CBU (completely built-up) model from Thailand, is available with 2.4-litre MIVEC and 2.5-litre turbodiesel engines. Customers can also choose either a 4×4 or 4×2 drivetrain. Prices start from RM79,890 and MMM gives a factory warranty of 200,000 kms (or maximum of 5 years).

Mitsubishi Triton sales rose in 2019 despite decline in pick-up truck segment

Ford Ranger XLT variants will be up to RM9,000 cheaper next week

Over the next 3 months, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has a money-saving offer for the Ford Ranger, specifically the XLT variants. With the ‘Ford Ranger XLT Family Promotion’, purchasers of the Ranger XLT, XLT Plus and XLT Special Edition can save up to RM9,000. The promotion will run from March 1 to May 31, 2020.

“The Ford Ranger XLT line-up continues to attract a wide range of customers with its appeal as a hardworking and rugged pickup that is suited for both work and play. Comfortable yet powerful, refined yet capable, our customers appreciate its versatility. With that, we are delighted to introduce the ‘Ford Ranger XLT Family Promotion’ to our customers,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

Ford Ranger XLT Special Edition
The Ranger XLT Special Edition has enhancements that include an upgraded 9-inch Touchscreen display with Reverse Camera plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that supports applications like Spotify, YouTube, Waze and Google Chrome. It also comes with a tonneau cover and trendy decals on each side of the truck.

Ford Ranger XLT Plus
Voted ‘Twin Cab Pick-up Truck of The Year’ in the 18^th Malaysia Cars of the Year Awards, the Ranger XLT Plus is powered by a 2-litre Single-Turbo diesel engine that is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission delivering 180 ps/420Nm.

It comes with convenience features such as keyless entry with start/stop button for engine operation and an Easy-Lift Tailgate to make lifting and lowering the tailgate effortless. It’s an ideal vehicle for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, camping or canoeing.

The capable Ranger XLT has a proven diesel engine with a variable geometry turbocharger that delivers 160 ps of power and maximum torque of 385 Nm, more than enough for work and personal business.

Colour choices
The Ranger Special Edition comes with a choice of two colours – Arctic White and Absolute Black, while the Ranger XLT and XLT Plus are available in Aluminium Metallic, Lightning Blue, Frozen White, Magnetic and Absolute Black.

To find out more about each variant and other promotions, visit www.sdacford.com.my .

Ford Ranger wins International Pick-up Award 2020

Mitsubishi Triton sales rose in 2019 despite decline in pick-up truck segment

Although accounting for 65% of the commercial vehicle segment, sales of new pick-up trucks in Malaysia fell by 21% in 2019, lowering the total volume to 35,121 units from 44,443 units in 2018. Likewise, for the models assembled locally, there was also a drop of 27.1% as companies scaled back production in the light of reduced demand.

While the decline was partly due to challenging economic conditions and uncertainty of projects continuing, the shift in consumer preference to SUVs could also have been a factor. While sales of new passenger vehicles grew by 1.2%, sales of new SUVS rose by 14.9% compared to 2018.

Market share rose to 16.5%
Despite the downturn in pick-up truck sales, Mitsubishi’s Triton model registered an increase of 2.4% (compared to 2018) during the year with 5,792 units sold. The higher volume also captured a market share that was 3.8% more at 16.5%.

“MMM will continue to provide the best-handling pick-up truck from our flagship model – the Triton Adventure X – to the Triton Quest 4×2 in order to meet our customers’ daily work and leisure requirements. We are confident of achieving our Triton sales target and that Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia will provide top-notch customer service to all its customers,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM).

*A Mitsubishi Motors dealership in Sabah*

“Our achievement in 2019 included being ranked No. 1 in the J.D. Power 2019 Malaysia Customer Service Index (CSI) Mass Market Study. It was the second consecutive year for MMM to be ranked at Number One, while it has remained in the top three positions for 5 consecutive years,” Mr. Shinnishi said.

He added that in terms of sales, MMM was ranked among the top two in the 2019 J.D. Power Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI). “These results were a reflection of owners’ satisfaction which was experienced at the authorized service centres of the Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia network,” he explained.

Boost in sales helped by new generation
The growth in pick-up sales was attributed to the introduction of the new generation of the Triton which has contributed to 71.2% of the overall business of MMM. “We launched the new generation in January and besides the new ‘Dynamic Shield’ design concept, it has improved quality, advanced safety features and maintains the DNA of the best handling pick-up truck,” said Mr. Shinnishi.

“Subsequently, in November, we upgraded the range-topping Triton Adventure X and Triton AT Premium with more accessories. The company also launched the new Triton Quest and Limited Edition Triton Knight to complete the Triton line-up,” he added.

Mitsubishi Outlander and ASX — *Besides, the Triton, the Mitsubishi Motors range in Malaysia also includes the Outlander and ASX.*

The Triton, with prices starting from RM79,890, is the only pick-up in Malaysia with a long warranty of 200,000-km (or maximum of 5 years). It certainly reflects the confidence that MMM has in the quality and durability of the vehicles which are imported from Thailand in CBU (completely built-up) form.

Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my for more information about the latest Triton and the location of authorised Mitsubishi Motors showrooms throughout Malaysia.

Limited edition Mitsubishi Triton Knight for same price as Triton Adventure X

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

For the last 13 consecutive years, Isuzu Malaysia has been providing the Borneo Safari (which began in 1991) with vehicles for the media and officials to use. The vehicles have been D-MAX models and not used just to ferry people to the starting and finishing locations but have actually followed the participants deep into the jungle.

And each year, along with those that survived one of the toughest and most extreme events in the region, the D-MAX would also arrive at the finish line. This fact has helped build the solid reputation of the pick-up truck as one of the toughest and most capable off-road vehicles in the annual off-road challenge.

New Blue Power 1.9-litre powerplant
Until this year, the vehicles supplied had big turbodiesel engines, typical for most pick-up trucks. However, with the introduction of the advanced new Blue Power 1.9-litre engine in the latest D-MAX launched this year in Malaysia, the D-MAX entered was something entirely new, powerplant-wise. And, in fact, the vehicle that was sent to Sabah was so new it had only clocked 200 kms after leaving the Isuzu Malaysia assembly plant in Pekan, Pahang.

However, confident in its durability and capabilities, Isuzu Malaysia encouraged the media who used it to drive it as hard as necessary during the gruelling 7-day event. It impressed so much that the organiser gave a Special Award recognizing its remarkable off-roading capabilities.

2019 Borneo Safari — *Two of the other vehicles with more ‘hardcore’ modifications made to tackle the 7-day event.*

Isuzu D-MAX 2019 Borneo Safari — *The D-MAX 1.9 was virtually standard except for necessary protective additions and in fact, it was not even fully run-in at the start of the event.*

Virtually standard with 200 kms on the clock
Nicknamed the ‘Blue Monster’, the vehicle was virtually stock standard except for a few additions to make it more suited to the terrain including a body lift to fit the mud terrain tyres, long travel shock absorbers, snorkel, winch and heavy-duty guards to protect the vehicle from the extreme elements encountered along the way.

The ‘Blue Monster’ joined ‘Red Monster’, ‘White Monster’ and ‘Black Monster’ as part of Isuzu Malaysia’s commitment as the event’s Diamond Sponsor.

“Off-road enthusiasts understand that strong and balanced power delivery is vital when tackling extremes in the jungle. With its impressive power delivery perfectly matched to its new 6-speed gearbox, the new 1.9-litre Blue Power D-MAX simply showed its pedigree and dispelled any notion about the capability of its diminutive engine displacement,” said the Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki.

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