Isuzu D-Max terbaru diperkenalkan di Thailand

New Isuzu D-Max

One of Thailand’s favourite pickups gets an all-new replacement with sleeker looks and bigger bodies.

Are the D-Max and Colorado developed separately now?

Not actually. The Isuzu D-Max and Chevrolet Colorado still have bodies jointly developed for their all-new replacements _ just like before. Isuzu was first to stage the world debut of the all-new D-Max yesterday evening in Muang Thong Thani on Chaeng Wattana Road.

Full details and pictures of the next-generation Colorado will be unveiled next week, although Life, along with other selected Thai media outlets, has already been given a sneak preview of the Chevy truck last week.

So, what are the differences?

The basic shape for the extra/double-cab versions are essentially the same, with vastly bigger dimensions than before to allow for greater interior space and cargo-hulling abilities. As of press time, no dimensions had been made available. But both the D-Max and Colorado are guaranteed to take the metal race on par with all-new Ford Ranger and Mazda BT-50.

The D-Max (and Colorado) now has rear access panels for the extra-cab variant. This leaves the Mitsubishi Triton the only model to not have such a practical feature. As for the double-cab, the D-Max now has more comfortable rear seats, as well as more legroom space.

Isuzu claims that its new “i-Grip” platform accommodates a body that’s 42% stiffer than before to help improve handling and ride.

But the design details of the D-Max and Colorado are obviously different like the front/rear lights and grille and bumper up front.

Inside, the two also share the same basic fascia and other interior panels. But the D-Max gets differently styled panel dials and an instrument cluster on the centre console housing functions for the audio and air-con.

Note the “dual-cockpit” design of the fascia which draws inspiration from Chevrolet’s cars like the Cruze C-segment saloon.

What about the engines?

It appears to be separate ways now for the two. The D-Max uses carried-over diesel-turbo engines albeit tweaked to Euro 5 emission standards with higher outputs and new-generation common-rail fuel-injection including the 116hp/280Nm 2.5 and VGS versions of the 136hp/320Nm 2.5 and 177hp/380Nm 3.0.

While a five-speed manual is still on offer for traditionalists, the automatic transmission now comes with five-forward ratios to match the Mitsubishi Triton and Nissan Navara. Isuzu’s arch-rival, the Toyota Hilux Vigo Champ, still sticks with four gears in the automatic version.

For the Colorado, there will be a 2.5-litre diesel-turbo called Duramax and a bigger 2.8-litre variant for those needing more power and torque.

What kind of selling points is Isuzu boasting in the D-Max?

Features relating to safety and convenience are being highlighted. For example, the D-Max now boasts a high level of active safety like anti-lock brakes, brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability system. The luxurious gimmick is an 8-speaker audio with surround sound.

As with most other pickup brands, Isuzu sees a growing demand for the high-riding 4×2 with automatic gearbox, due to its fashionable body that also has a functional role in battling the notorious flooding conditions in the country. The 4×4 double-cab variant is still being offered on top of the range.