Isuzu D-MAX: a new era dawns for bakkie range

Isuzu Motors South Africa has refreshed its bakkie range, giving it a new name along with higher levels of specification, quality and efficiency to make its popular light commercial vehicle (LCV) more appealing than ever. Now known as the Isuzu DMAX, in line with international markets, the Isuzu bakkie range spans an extensive portfolio comprising 30 models for SA and 13 models for export markets, with the top-spec derivatives gaining a more luxurious execution that reflects the more sophisticated requirements of top-end buyers in this segment. The D-MAX name originated in Thailand, with the “D” originally referring to the 2000 model year Isuzu bakkie which boasted the flush “Dragon Eyes” headlamp design. It also represents Isuzu's proud legacy in the production of diesel engines, the use of industrydefining direct injection, as well as ground-breaking design and durability. “Max” signifies Isuzu's maximum approach to design, size, comfort, technology, performance, safety, durability and line-up. The line-up has been revised and enhanced to make the D-MAX more appealing and competitive than ever, and the high-spec models raise the bar for Isuzu in terms of luxury and quality. Exclusive and upmarket LX range: Visually, the biggest styling changes for the refreshed Isuzu DMAX make their debut on the range-topping 3.0-Litre LX models, available in single, extended and double cab body styles. Central to the new-look is a muscular new chromed radiator grille that dominates the front facia, along with new tapered chromed accents extending across the full length of the sleeker Lshaped headlight clusters. In combination with the new projector-type Bi-LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights introduced on the extended and double cab models, there are restyled fog-lamp bezels framed by chromed vertical accents that give the LX a distinctive and aggressive character. The more upmarket look and feel of the LX models becomes immediately apparent, courtesy of the new soft-touch panels for the instrument cluster binnacle. The utility box lid is now embellished with the “Isuzu D-MAX logo” and 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. 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 allnew premium Alpine infotainment system. 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. It also links Apple CarPlay® and Android™ Auto, once it is made available in SA.

All-new six-speed transmissions

One of the most significant new features of the 2018 Isuzu D-MAX range is the introduction of an allnew six-speed gearbox on the high-spec 3.0-Litre LX derivatives, replacing the five-speed versions used on the outgoing models to improve overall performance, efficiency and refinement.

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.

Extensive, tailor-made line-up

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.

Isuzu Complete Care

Isuzu Complete Care comes standard with every new Isuzu DMAX and embodies Isuzu's unwavering commitment to aftersales service and customer satisfaction. All Isuzu D-MAX models are sold as standard with a comprehensive five-year/120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance, as well as a five-year unlimited distance anti-corrosion warranty. There is a five-year/90,000km service plan is included in the purchase price, with service intervals scheduled every 15,000km or annually, whichever comes first.