Isuzu Utes New Zealand is introducing an all-new D-Max line-up for the first time in eight years.
The new range will land in dealerships mid-October this year and customers can now place orders for the new models online with a $500 deposit or through local Isuzu dealers with exclusive accessory offers and other pre-launch deals.
The new-generation of Isuzu’s one-tonne ute claims to feature premium-levels of refinement, technology and practical enhancements while retaining its durability and ruggedness.
“It’s a very exciting time for Isuzu with the introduction of the all-new D-Max, a model that has been worth the wait,” Isuzu Utes New Zealand general manager Sam Waller says.
“There’s a whole lot more to this ute, whilst retaining its toughness and durability. With new active safety, greater power and torque, even more off-road ability, plus enhanced technology and improved driver comfort, the all-new D-Max is ruggedly refined,” he says.
“Kiwis not only have the choice of the LX, LS-M and LS, a totally new variant also joins the new-generation of D-Max, the X-Terrain – a higher spec variant.”
“The all-new D-Max is set to be a stand out performer on or off the road. It’s all you need for any adventure whether that be a family roadie or heading into back country,” Waller says.
Isuzu’s 3L diesel turbo engine has been enhanced producing 10kW more power (now 140kW) and 20Nm more torque (now 450Nm) across a wider rpm range.
The all-new D-Max comes alive off-road with the introduction of a rear axle differential lock as standard on all 4×4 models, and an extra 200mm wading depth (now 800mm), hill-start assist and improved ground clearance, the model has more off-road ability than its predecessor.
The new model comes with active safety features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collison Warning (FCW), Lane Support System (automatic models only), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind-Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA). These safety features are in addition to a full complement of airbags including a new segment-first front seat centre airbag which protects front occupants in the case of side impacts.
Also included is an updated infotainment system, upgraded technology and quality of interior components.
Starting the all-new range is the workhorse LX. Which is available in three body types (Single Cab, Space Cab, and Double Cab), manual or automatic, 2WD or 4WD.
Improvements include a full suite of active safety technology, 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic lights and wipers and even adaptive cruise control for automatic models.
Stepping up, the LS-M is available in Double Cab 4WD with automatic or manual transmissions. Improvements include the same as the LX plus LED head lights with LED daytime running lights and 17-inch alloy wheels and more interior trim.
A 9-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, and 18-inch alloy wheels can be found in the LS.
And for those seeking all the bells and whistles is the range headliner D-Max X-Terrain.
The top-spec X-Terrain comes in the Double Cab, 4WD with automatic transmission.
Specifications for the X-Terrain include the active safety technology of the other variants plus a power 8-way driver seat, leather interior trim, smart proximity key with remote engine start, front and rear parking sensors, wheel arch extensions and gun-metal exterior highlights (wheels, grille, mirror caps, door handles and roof rails) as well as a matte black roller tonneau cover and under-rail tray liner.
The new models feature larger and deeper rear trays, a longer wheelbase and lean horizontal bodylines to be sleeker and more aerodynamically efficient than the preceding D-Max.
Customers have the choice of seven different colour options from Splash White, Mercury Silver Metallic, Obsidian Grey, Onyx Black Metallic, Red Spinel Metallic, Sapphire Blue Metallic and the striking new Valencia Orange Metallic.
With 15 variants available, pricing ranges from $49,990 for the LX 2WD through to $75,490 for the top spec X-Terrain model.
Isuzu Utes NZ says while this costs more than its predecessor, the price reflects the inclusion of a more powerful and efficient turbo-diesel engine, upmarket equipment and features, and new safety technology.
