is on its way having launched in South Africa a few weeks ago.

DESIGN AND STYLING

Emphasising its rugged, yet modern and refined look, the all-new ISUZU D-MAX is bolder and sportier than ever. This is clearly evident by the fresh and more aggressive front fascia and grille, centred around a modern interpretation of the established ISUZU D-MAX design cues.

Slimmer, more angular lights that include Bi-LED projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights on the high-series models give the new ISUZU D-MAX distinctive on-road presence. This is complemented by LED edge lighting for the turn indicators on the mirror housings, crisp new LED combination tail lamps and an integrated LED high-mount brake light at the rear that continues the contemporary theme.

Despite its more athletic appearance, the new ISUZU D-MAX is bigger and more spacious in all key areas, other than the roofline which is 10mm lower than the previous model. The bonnet and load area have been heightened by 15mm and 30mm respectively, while the wheelbase has been extended by 30mm for greater optimisation of the cabin structure.

LUXURIOUS INTERIOR

The high series models of the new ISUZU D-MAX offer a smart and sophisticated cabin with an upper-class quality feel. It is more akin to that of a passenger car with sharp graphics and a variety of layered and textured surfaces with soft-touch materials – most noticeably on the dashboard – that provide a tactile, quality feel throughout. The new dashboard layout lifts the game with an elegant, simplified layout that positions the controls and switches within easy reach.

Supreme comfort is assured thanks to the dual-zone climate control on the LSE and V-CROSS models – with rear vents on the Double Cabs contributing for greater comfort – or manual air-conditioning on the lower derivatives.

TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY

All new ISUZU D-MAX models come standard with impressive safety credentials such as Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS). Also added to the mix are Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Trailer Sway Control.

The range-topping V-CROSS raises the benchmark even further, as it boasts Intelligent Driver Assist System (IDAS) that incorporates a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. It includes advanced features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) and Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Parking Aid (front and rear) and Multi

Collision Brake (MCB) that will automatically apply the brakes when the airbags are deployed.

In the event of a collision the ISUZU

D-MAX is equipped with up to eight airbags, depending on specification level.

POWER AND PERFORMANCE The new ISUZU D-MAX range is available with a choice of two diesel engines that build on Isuzu’s long-standing reputation for durability, reliability and efficiency.

Isuzu’s 1.9-litre Ddi powerplant is a new powertrain to the ISUZU line-up and is standard on all Single Cab models and is available on Extended Cab and Double Cab derivatives. It uses common rail direct injection to produce a maximum power output of 110 kW at 3 600 r/min, with peak torque of 350 Nm available between 1 800 to 2 600 r/min, delivering superb fuel economy and low running costs.

Available in mid- to high-series Extended Cab and Double Cab models, the upgraded 3.0 Ddi engine has been optimised for more torque at lower engine speeds, superior pull off and acceleration, significantly reduced noise levels and optimised consumption. In its latest guise, the 3.0-litre unit delivers 140 kW of peak power at 3 600 r/min, with its maximum torque figure of 450 Nm available from 1 600 to 2 600 r/min.