Isuzu has said its goodbyes to the KB, but fear not bakkie lovers, as it will soldier on as the D-Max.
Visually, the biggest styling changes for the refreshed Isuzu D-MAX make their debut on the range-topping 3.0-Litre LX models, available in single, extended and double cab body styles. You get a new chromed radiator grille, along with new tapered chromed accents extending across the full length of headlight clusters.
On the inside there are new soft-touch panels for the instrument cluster binnacle. The utility box lid is now embellished with the ‘Isuzu D-MAX logo’, this is complemented by a new, more attractive high-quality grain for the dashboard and door trims, along with a piano black finish on the air vent grilles and window switches. In contrast, the door handles, locking knob, and air vent knobs are picked out in chrome.
The occupants also benefit from the fitment of the latest-generation infotainment system, incorporating an eight-inch full colour touch screen that replaces the 6.5-inch version used in the previous model. The fully featured system incorporates the display for the rear-view camera, and facilitates Bluetooth hands-free cellphone use and audio streaming.
Isuzu customers are also now able to select as an option, the all-new premium Alpine infotainment system that first debuted on the Isuzu mu-X sport utility vehicle (SUV). The Alpine infotainment system boasts a high-mounted nine-inch screen that is Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) ready, and additionally provides access to built-in navigation, as well as USB, Aux and HDMI video inputs. Passengers will undoubtedly appreciate the new USB ports which have a higher 2.1A rating (up from 1A) to charge smartphones and multimedia devices. It also links Apple CarPlay and AndroidT Auto, once it is made available in South Africa. This allows phone functions and apps to be accessed on the display, or via a paired smartphone’s voice recognition software.
All-new six-speed transmissions
One of the most significant new features of the 2018 Isuzu D-MAX range is the introduction of an all-new six-speed gearbox on the high-spec 3.0-Litre LX derivatives, replacing the five-speed versions used on the outgoing models.
On our short drive at the launch, we hardly noticed the new gearbox, which is exactly what you want from a self-shifter. It just goes about its business quietly and effortlessly.
This mode is also ideally suited to off-road driving, allowing the driver to engage the appropriate gear ratio for the specific terrain. Combined with Hill Descent Control (HDC), manually selecting the lowest gear on downhills ensures optimal control of the vehicle as it maintains the vehicle at the set speed on steep descents.
Enhanced driving safety
On the safety front, the ABS brakes on all D-MAX LX models are now equipped with Isuzu’s Brake Override System (BOS) for the first time. The system restricts accelerator input if the brake pedal is applied simultaneously, thereby reducing stopping distances in an emergency.
The standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control has also been bolstered with the addition of Trailer Sway Control (TSC) that detects and minimises the effect of a trailer or caravan beginning to sway from side-to-side. The Hi-Rider and LE models can be equipped with an optional towbar package rated to tow a braked trailer up to a maximum load of 2.1 tons, while the standard heavy-duty unit on the 3.0-Litre 4X4 LX derivatives comes standard and is capable of hauling 3.5 tons.
As before, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) are included to assist the driver in all types of driving situations. These active safety features are available as a standard feature from the Fleetside Safety to the LX trim.
Extensive, tailor-made line-up
The Isuzu one-ton bakkie range has been revised to reflect the modern requirements of the crucial LCV market, and now comprises 30 models for South Africa and 13 models for export markets covering the needs of commercial and leisure-oriented customers.
A total of 16 single cab derivatives are available, including the addition of the new Dropside Base models which can be specified with either a factory-fitted flat load deck or in Dropside configuration.
The Dropside Base models can be ordered in 2.5-Litre LEED Base or Fleetside specification, powered by the trusty 2.5-Litre turbodiesel engine that produces 58 kW and 176 Nm. There is also the high-spec 2.5-Litre HO Fleetside Safety model that employs the high-output common rail turbodiesel engine with 100 kW and 320 Nm on tap, along with a raft of safety features including ABS, ESC, HSA, and driver and passenger airbags.
The practical extended cab models include the 2.5-Litre Hi-Rider, two 3.0 LX models with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, as well as a 3.0-Litre 4X4 LX manual.
A new 2.5-Litre HO Base model joins the popular double cab range as an entry-level proposition that is perfectly suited to hard-working commercial applications. It is complemented by the existing Hi-Rider and striking X-Rider models in 4X2 or 4X4, as well as the LE version that offers exceptional value for money.
Topping the D-MAX line-up is the updated, more capable and more luxurious 3.0-Litre LX, available in 4X2 or 4X4, and the choice of the all-new six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Pricing:
ISUZU DMAX DIESEL | PRICING |
SINGLE CAB | |
D-MAX 250C SINGLE CAB BASE | R 256 100,00 |
D-MAX 250C CHASSIS CAB BASE | R 246 200,00 |
D-MAX 250CDROPSIDE BASE | R 284 800.00 |
D-MAX 250C SINGLE CAB FLEETSIDE | R 280 000,00 |
D-MAX 250C CHASSIS CAB FLEETSIDE | R 270 200,00 |
D-MAX 250C DROPSIDE FLEETSIDE | R 308 700.00 |
D-MAX 250 HO SINGLE CAB FLEETSIDE | R 299 900,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO CHASSIS CAB FLEETSIDE | R 290 000,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO DROPSIDE FLEETSIDE | R 328 600,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO SINGLE CAB FLEETSIDE (Safety) | R 310 500,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO CHASSIS CAB FLEETSIDE (Safety) | R 300 600.00 |
D-MAX 250 HO DROPSIDE (Safety) w/ESC | R 339 200.00 |
D-MAX 250 HO SINGLE CAB LE | R 353 500,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO 4X4 SINGLE CAB HI-RIDER | R 399 600,00 |
D-MAX 300 SINGLE CAB LX – 6-SPEED MANUAL | R 413 800,00 |
D-MAX 300 4X4 SINGLE CAB LX – 6-SPEED MANUAL | R 477 900,00 |
EXTENDED CAB | |
D-MAX 250 HO EXTENDED CAB HI-RIDER | R 358 000,00 |
D-MAX 300 EXTENDED CAB LX – 6-SPEED MANUAL | R 450 700,00 |
D-MAX 300 EXTENDED CAB LX – 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC | R 465 200,00 |
D-MAX 300 4X4 EXTENDED CAB LX – 6-SPEED MANUAL | R 513 700,00 |
DOUBLE CAB | |
D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB BASE | R 332 500,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB HI-RIDER | R 387 800,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB LE | R 437 200,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO 4X4 DOUBLE CAB HI-RIDER | R 435 500,00 |
D-MAX 300 DOUBLE CAB LX – 6-SPEED MANUAL | R 522 100,00 |
D-MAX 300 DOUBLE CAB LX – 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC | R 537 100,00 |
D-MAX 300 4X4 DOUBLE CAB LX – 6-SPEED MANUAL | R 591 800,00 |
D-MAX 300 4X4 DOUBLE CAB LX – 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC | R 606 400,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB X-RIDER | R 424 400,00 |
D-MAX 250 HO 4X4 DOUBLE CAB X-RIDER | R 472 500,00 |