NEW D-MAX REVEALED

The all-new Isuzu D-max bakkie range, launched in Thailand at the end of last year, will this month be introduced in Australia and be on sale there by September. South Africans will have to wait until the second half of next year for the local release of the newgeneration version of the pickup.

Isuzu Motors South Africa confirmed the company is busy with “upgrades and modifications” to its production plant in Port Elizabeth and the localisation of a “diverse set” of components and systems to locally produce the new bakkie range. The company anticipate it will be ready to roll the first units off the production line during the second half of 2021.

The new, completely redesigned D-max is distinguished by BI-LED headlights with signature U-shaped LED daytime running lights. Other features include reach adjustment for the steering wheel and airvents for the rear passengers, as well as a nine-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Car Play and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, voice recognition, and dual-zone climate control.

Top models will also receive eightspeaker surround sound, remote engine start, leather seat trim, and a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster display. A full array of advanced safety systems will also be available, and it will be powered by a new, updated version of the proven threelitre turbodiesel engine, delivering 140 kw and 450 Nm of torque. A new 1,9-litre turbodiesel delivering 112 kw and 350 Nm of torque is also available but it is unclear whether it will be offered locally.