truck Archives

All-new Isuzu D-MAX launched today with a choice of 7 variants

Ever since the 1990s, Malaysians have come to appreciate the usefulness of the pick-up truck, a vehicle that is fine for town use, for weekend adventures off-road as well as workhorse duties. There have been many choices and among the popular ones today is the Isuzu D-MAX which officially goes into its third generation in the Malaysian market today.

To suit different budgets and requirements, there are no less than seven variants to choose – with double cab or single cab bodystyles, and two engine sizes. It’s all-new from the tyres up, incorporating new technologies for greater strength, reliability, efficiency and longevity… all the qualities that have made the D-MAX so popular.

“Isuzu engineers set out to create a stronger, more able and durable machine with this new model. They invested years in development and over 4 million kilometres in testing the new model to achieve the best Isuzu D-Max they have ever created. They then added the soft touches and high-tech features to satisfy the discerning owners who desire comfort and sophistication in their modern-day vehicles,” said the CEO of Isuzu Malaysia, Koji Nakamura.

Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform
Built on a new Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform, the all-new Isuzu D-Max employs a new ladder frame that offers improved stiffness and strength to ensure and durability. The integration of the body structure, chassis, powertrain and suspension is balanced to work together as one for better handling. The new suspension configuration and a longer wheelbase allows the engine mass to be located further behind the front wheels, resulting in more dynamic handling and a comfortable ride.

All variants have a new distinctively bold and sporty outlook that has a more SUV appeal. The stylish appearance is functional too as aerodynamic efficiency – not usually talked about with such vehicles – is improved for the new D-MAX.

X-Terrain – the flagship
For those who want the most stylish pick-up truck, the new D-MAX X-Terrain variant will be the one to get. It stands out from the rest of the range with the Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue body colour.

This new flagship variant comes with a revised 3-litre engine that has been re-engineered and refined with numerous advancements to improve performance and engine response while reducing noise and vibration. The engine produces 190 ps/450 Nm, with peak torque starting from as low as 1,600 rpm and available up to 2,600 rpm. The revised torque curve, together with a new 6-speed automatic transmission, optimises power delivery for any condition and demand.

Exclusive features with the X-Terrain include remote engine start, rear differential lock, wet wiper system, brown leather upholstery for the seats (which have 8-way electronic adjustment including lumbar support), and a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen panel with Android Auto/wireless Apple Carplay for easy smartphone connectivity.

Advanced Driver Assist Systems
The D-MAX X-Terrain also has Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) to make driving safer and less tiring. The active systems installed are similar to those found in the latest passenger cars. These include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Turn Assist, Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Manual Speed Limiter, and a Multi-Collision Brake system that applies the brakes should any of the seven airbags be deployed.

*Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a safe gap with the vehicle ahead.*

For less driving fatigue on long distances or at night, there’s also Adaptive Cruise Control with stop & go function and Automatic High Beams. The Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a safe gap with other vehicles ahead and can function down to standstill, reactivating when the vehicle ahead moves off. Automatic High Beams will automatically switch to low beams when there is an oncoming vehicle to avoid dazzling the driver, so the driver of the D-MAX does not need to think about it.

Two engine choices
Customers can have style and comfort without sacrificing the proven qualities of the D-MAX which is now not only quieter and more comfortable but also a tougher, more capable and dependable as well. The Premium 4×4 Auto variants – available with either a 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel or the 3-litre turbodiesel – are ideal for those who spend significant hours behind the wheel. The new comfort features and safety equipment in the cabin will ensure that even if there are many hours of motoring, it will be fatigue-free.

*Two turbodiesel engine choices for the new D-MAX – 1.9 litres or 3.0 litres, both tuned to run efficiently and reliably on Malaysian B7 or B10 biodiesel.*

For workhorse duties
For the price conscious, the two Standard models offer lower running costs with their good operating efficiency. Powered by the capable 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine with 150 ps/350 Nm and a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions, these variants will be highly effective workhorses in any business.

Also available are two Single Cab variants for those who have significant load-carrying requirements and want a go-anywhere, do-anything truck. There are two engine options – 1.9-litres or 3.0-litres – and like the rest of the range, safety is assured as the latest D-MAX has qualified for ASEAN NCAP’s 5-star rating.

All D-Max variants come with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) but for the X-Terrain, Isuzu Malaysia is giving an additional 2 years – and no limit on mileage travelled after registration. This class-leading warranty shows that there is great confidence in the long-term durability of the vehicle.

“This all-new Isuzu D-Max has found many new fans in all the markets it has been launched. It appears to be the case here too in Malaysia where we have received over 1,000 bookings – even before its official launch today. With the strong interest in the all-new Isuzu D-Max, I believe that our target of 6,400 units this year will be achievable,” said the COO, Light Commercial Vehicle Division of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki.

*Prices shown are for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia. Insurance is not included.*

Experience the all-new D-MAX
Until May 31, 2021, all authorized Isuzu dealerships will be having ‘The all-new Isuzu D-Max Breaking Boundaries Test Drive’ campaign. This is a great opportunity to experience the vehicle and during the campaign period, there will be exclusive Isuzu merchandise giveaways and a chance to win cash prizes. To locate a showroom in Malaysia, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my/.

New Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain: Why other pick-up truck brands should be worried

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

Updated Mitsubishi Triton Quest – the workhorse truck that also looks good for personal use

Pick-up trucks used to be just workhorses, vehicles that were bought for business purposes and therefore did not need much by way of features, comfort or performance. They were also priced cheaply because they didn’t have the luxuries of a passenger car. When the regulations in Malaysia changed in the late 1990s to allow private registration of such vehicles, their popularity rose but the new group of people who bought pick-ups wanted the comforts of their passenger cars. So the manufacturers began to add more and more car-like features and even safety systems comparable to passenger cars.

However, at the entry-level end, businesses still wanted a workhorse, something tough and capable in rough conditions to do hard work. And they naturally wanted a low price since they would buy many units. This led to companies offering variants that were fairly simple with basic specifications and even the drivetrain was 4×2 (rear wheel drive only), saving cost and weight and also having lower consumption.

To cater to this end of the market, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) imported the Mitsubishi Triton Lite from Thailand in 2008, in the process introducing the low-rider version to Malaysia. The low-rider pick-up truck is lower and that makes loading more convenient. As mentioned earlier, being intended for the entry-level end, the Triton Lite was priced low and also equipped minimally (though not as spartan as the earlier pick-up trucks).

The Triton Lite found its own niche in the market and as generations changed, MMM maintained the variant in the Triton range. Today, the company presented an updated version – now called the Triton Quest – to the media which has freshened looks with the distinctive Dynamic Shield front end. Though this variant has been around since the new generation was launched, the new looks now make it a workhorse that also looks good enough for use as personal transport. Those who want to enhance the looks can obviously install accessories (especially since they have saved money by choosing the cheapest Triton variant).

Under the bonnet is a 2.5-litre commonrail turbodiesel with an output of 110 ps/200 Nm, with power delivery going only to the rear wheels (4×2) through a 5-speed manual gearbox. While 4×4 is desirable, if the vehicle is mainly used on hard surfaces, 4×2 is not that disadvantageous.

MMM highlights the massive 970 kgs of load capacity of the Triton Quest and the cargo deck floor area as being the largest in the low-rider category. In spite of the large area, the cabin is still spacious, thanks to the J-Line profile which allows for good rear room. There’s also additional storage space in a compartment that cannot be seen as it is under the rear seats.

Features-wise, the latest Triton Quest can be said to be generously equipped for the asking price. Safety features and systems such as dual front airbags and ABS with EBD are present and occupant protection is assured by the strong RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body structure.

Priced at RM79,890 (without insurance), the latest Triton Quest comes with a 5-year (or maximum of 100,000 kms) warranty. It is available only in white but a Pearl White finish. This is unusual as entry-level variants usually come with a basic white colour to minimize production costs.

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SDAC-Ford’s way of celebrating Merdeka/Malaysia Day gives customers extra

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) doesn’t let a year go by without making the Merdeka/Malaysia Day celebrations special for its customers. This year, the company’s sales promotion focusses on its Ranger model line with extras for those who buy and register a new vehicle during the promotion period.

The extras for 2019
From August 1 to September 30 2019, customers who purchase either the Ranger WildTrak or Ranger Raptor will enjoy free scheduled maintenance for the first 2 years. Additionally, they will receive a complimentary PETRONAS Gift Card pre-loaded with RM1,000 for purchases at PETRONAS stations nationwide.

Customers who prefer the Ranger WildTrak and become owners during this promotional period will receive a rebate of RM3,000, reducing the H-P loan they take and therefore lowering the monthly instalments.

“We are constantly looking for meaningful ways to appreciate our customers. This new deal offers customers more peace of mind and value-add with free maintenance and attractive rewards in conjunction with the upcoming celebrations,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, Managing Director of SDAC.

SDAC’s Motor Insurance Package
With their vehicle purchase, they can also opt for the Sime Darby Auto Connexion Motor Insurance Package which offers additional benefits and privileges for greater peace of mind.

For example, besides 24-hour emergency towing and roadside repair, approval for estimation on repair works below RM20,000 can be obtained within 24 hours (terms and conditions apply). You have the option either to get full compensation for theft or total loss based on agreed value for the first 10 years (T&C apply).

Both variants, as with the rest of the Ranger line-up, come with a full manufacturer’s warranty of 3 years or maximum of 100,000 kms.

*Since its introduction in the 1990s, the Ranger has been a benchmark for pick-up trucks, especially with its ‘Built Ford Tough’ reputation.*

A benchmark for pick-up models
Since being introduced in the ASEAN region first – and then globally – in the 1990s, the Ranger has proven in many ways to be the industry benchmark in the pick-up truck segment. Various generations have received awards in Malaysia and other markets for product excellence.

The popularity of the Ranger continues in 2018 as SDAC reported that its sales performance gained 1.7 percentage points from the same period last year to 17.2% in the pick-up segment.

“The ‘Built Ford Tough’ Ranger continues to earn the favour of customers across the country and build on its growing success in the market,” said Truong Kim Phong, MD, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company.

Visit www.sdac-ford.com.my to locate a showroom in Malaysia where you can view, test or purchase a Ranger.

Click here to read other news and articles about Ford and SDAC on PISTON.MY.

Dodge Carryall is a WWII heavyweight

An unusual vehicle has managed to find it’s way into Jay Leno’s garage this Christmas. Purposefully built as a troop carrier in its previous life, this 1942 Dodge Carryall has been restored and modified to a level that will make it the envy of the restomod fraternity. It was part of Dodge’s light military vehicle line-up that included weapon carriers, mobile workshops and several other applications.

Built to support the allied efforts in World War II, more than 255,000 such vehicles were produced in the span of about 5 years. It’s not known how many of them are still on the road today, many have probably ended up in salvage yards or live on as parts of other similar vehicles.

In this episode of Jay Leno’s garage, the former Tonight’s Show host gives this custom creation a once over, and speaks with the owner about its history. Like other guests on the show, this particular Dodge has an important story to tell. Since it rolled off the production line, the Carryall has seen it’s fair share of action, and since its been given a life lane, that should continue for the foreseeable future.

Check out the latest video and let us know if the Dodge Carryall deserves to be celebrated for it’s place in history, and as one of the nicest restomoded vintage trucks that currently roam the public roads.

Fiat Fullback Cross launched at Geneva

Italian automotive giant, Fiat, has added a new variant to its pick-up truck stable called the Fullback Cross. The company says that the latest addition is meant to “further broaden the appeal of the Fiat Fullback with lifestyle users”. As such, it come with a slew of upgrades and enhancements.

The exterior upgrades include a new grille fitted with matte black ingots, a satin silver skid plate and revised larger side steps. An exclusive add on for the variant is a textured black sport bar which lends a space age look to the vehicle’s silhouette. The truck also comes with a new all-black car cargo space which features a Fiat logo, in case you forget who made it. Fitted as standard are Bi-Xenon headlights, front fog lights and LED daytime running lights.

Inside, Fiat has fitted this pick-up with leather upholstered seats, steering wheel and gear knob. It has also been kitted with automatic dual zone climate control and heated front seats which offer six-way electric adjustment on the driver’s side. Gracing the centre stack is the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers DAB CD/MP3 Radio, Bluetooth and USB port. The system is also integrated with the vehicle’s rear parking camera and satellite navigation.

Fiat’s Fullback Cross is offered as a double cab and comes fitted with a 2.4-litre commonrail turbo diesel engine that produces 180bhp and 430Nm of torque. Buyers can choose to have either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission which offers a sequential mode and dashboard commands.

As for safety features, the Fullback Cross comes with ABS with EBD, TSA (Trailer Stability Assist), LDW (Lane Departure Warning), seven airbags and cruise control, which should make it a very capable truck.

Fiat says that the truck will be launched later this year and prices will be announced closer to the launch date.

Piston.my

truck

All-new Isuzu D-MAX launched today with a choice of 7 variants

Mitsubishi Triton stays strong in the pick-up truck segment

Updated Mitsubishi Triton Quest – the workhorse truck that also looks good for personal use

SDAC-Ford’s way of celebrating Merdeka/Malaysia Day gives customers extra

Dodge Carryall is a WWII heavyweight

Fiat Fullback Cross launched at Geneva

Mitsubishi Triton Phantom edition launched – 200 units only!

MAN Leads the Way: First Autonomous Truck Hits German Highway

Ford To Build Ranger In China

Hennessey transforms Ford Raptor R Into a 6×6 VelociRaptoR

Magna Offers eBeam Technology To Electrify Pick-Up Trucks With Lower Cost

Malaysia Is First Market in Asia-Pacific To Sell Peugeot Landtrek Pick-Up Truck

Drunk Truck Driver Rams Car Causing Serious Injuries To Two Small Children In Accident

High-Performance Toyota Hilux GR Sport For Australia

Akio Toyoda Gives A First Look At Future Pick-Up Truck Models

New Stock Ford Ranger Raptor Takes Class Win In Baja 1000 Desert Race

Biofuel-powered Ford Ranger Raptor To Enter Baja 1000 Off-Road Race (w/VIDEO)

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