One of the most anticipated releases from Isuzu Philippines is the third-generation D-Max. Launched in Thailand last year, the new model puts the brakes on the long-standing Isuzu-GM partnership with a completely new platform that makes it shorter yet wider and higher than the outgoing version.
The latest D-Max uses an all-new platform
Changes are obvious on the outside, sporting a much more aggressive-looking fascia with a larger grille accompanied by redesigned slats. The fenders are now more slightly more evident, adding muscle to the pickup’s stance. Even the interior has been revamped, with the dial-shaped interface on the center stack replaced by a sleeker row of switches.
2021 Isuzu D-Max Quick Look
The engine choices from the old model have been retained, with a slight output bump on the bigger power plant. A more comfort-oriented suspension whittled down the new Isuzu D-Max’s maximum payload in favor of improved handling, but the top-spec variant comes with a new set of driver-assist features.
Find out how much you’ll need to set aside for Isuzu’s latest four-wheeled beast.
Isuzu D-Max 1.9 4x2 Single Cab MT
The entry-level D-Max is probably the most versatile workhorse of the range, with a bare chassis rear that allows owners to install a range of body upfits as their business requires, from the closed van to passenger configurations. Standard multi-reflector halogen headlamps rest on the fascia, with an energy-absorbing bumper rendered in black for ease of maintenance and repairs.
Up to three occupants can ride abreast inside the cabin, with the passengers perching on bench seats while drivers have the bucket seat all to themselves. A 1.9L turbodiesel engine provides plenty of grunt with 148 hp and 350 Nm of torque, matched to a 6-speed manual gearbox.
The D-Max Single Cab is priced at Php 857,000, and a 20 percent downpayment or Php 171,400 gets you a monthly bill of Php 23,968 for 36 months, dropping to Php 19,290 for 48 months. Raising the initial deposit to 30 percent or Php 257,100 returns an even lower Php 14,461, on a 60-month payment term.
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Isuzu D-Max 3.0 4x4 LT MT
Riding on 17-inch steel wheels, this variant gets you a cargo bed and the most affordable 4x4 drivetrain in the range, combined with a more powerful 3.0L turbodiesel engine that kicks up 187 hp and 450 Nm of twist. The headlamps now have a battery-saving function, which should help in driving down overhead costs.
Occupants will be treated to a sharper-looking interior
The dual-cab configuration accommodates up to five passengers on cloth upholstery, with a 60/40 split-folding rear bench for carrying more cargo inside as needed. A 1-DIN head unit provides a bit of entertainment on working days.
It comes with a sticker price of Php 1,288,000. Putting down a 30 percent downpayment or Php 386,400, you’ll need to save up Php 31,520 monthly for the next 36 months. A higher initial payment of 40 percent or Php 515,200 will entail 48 monthly payments of Php 21,743 each.
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Isuzu D-Max 3.0 4x2 LS-A AT
This upper-spec trim offers the same 3.0L power plant that works in concert with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Halogen foglamps now accompany the headlamps out in front, with power side mirrors for convenience. The rear cargo bay is now more robust with a bedliner as standard.
There’s dual-zone climate control with a pollen filter, while a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto handles communications and entertainment. Safety features include remote keyless entry, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, traction/stability control, and hill start assist.
All these come for Php 1,390,000. As far as financing goes, this can be divided into 36 monthly payments of Php 38,875 on a 20 percent downpayment or Php 278,000. Doubling the deposit to Php 556,000 reduces the monthly amortization to Php 23,465, if you choose to go with a 48-month payment plan.
Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E AT
The flagship variant pulls out all the stops in terms of powertrain and features, with automatic LED headlamps flanking gunmetal grille. Power-folding side mirrors are standard, along with a front bumper guard, cargo extenders, and over fenders. There’s a roof rail that can carry up to 100 kg. on top of the cabin.
The bigger 3.0L turbodiesel engine has been tweaked to squeeze out more power
>>> Related: 2021 Isuzu D-Max Old vs New: Spot the differences
A leather steering wheel sits on front of a 4.2-inch multi-information display on the instrument cluster, and occupants get to sit on brown leather. Aside from the default safety features, the LS-E is equipped with the Subaru-derived Advanced Driver Assist System which includes forward-collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.
As expected, this carries the highest premium in the range at Php 1,825,000. For financing options, a downpayment of 30 percent or Php 547,500 carries a monthly bill of 44,661 for 36 months. Depositing half of the sticker price, amounting to Php 912,500, returns a monthly amortization of Php 31,901 for the same period, or Php 21,997 if it’s a 60-month payment term.
Keep in mind that these are just estimated figures, as it does not include other relevant costs such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and registration. For further information, call or visit your nearest Isuzu dealer.
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