Isuzu Dmax 2018 Philippines Review: Price, Specs, Interior, Exterior & Blue power engine

The Isuzu Dmax has been known as a noted pick-up truck in the Philippines since its first launch in 2002. Billed as an “out of the ordinary” vehicle which is able to perform competently on any roads, the Dmax has captivated Filipinos with its rugged charm, impressive performance together with a homely feeling in the cockpit.

In point of fact, the Dmax has not got a very powerful engine when compared to other contestants in pick-up segment. However, it alone has given them a tough time for around 15 years. And this period of time seems not to terminate seeing as not long ago, Isuzu introduced a new turbo-diesel engine named “Power Blue.” This is the reason why today, Philkotse.com wants to introduce an all-new as well as current top-of-the-line variant of the Isuzu pickup – the Isuzu Dmax 2018 Philippines LS 4x4 3.0 Blue Power AT, which has been so far pampered with the state-of-the-art Blue Power Technology.

Hopefully our Isuzu Dmax 2018 Philippines Review will help you more conceive of this truck before arriving at final decision of bringing it home.

The Isuzu Dmax has been known as a noted pick-up truck in the Philippines since its first launch in 2002

>>> Related posts:

• Isuzu Dmax & Isuzu MU-X now meet the Euro 4 emissions standard
• Check out the new prices of the upgraded Isuzu Dmax and MU-X

Minor changes cover the exterior

Taking everything into consideration, the Isuzu Dmax 2018 exterior reflects minimal changes. Perhaps, the refinements it received a year ago are enough to refresh itself with a more aggressive look, especially at the front-end. In addition to that, somewhere we still find its pleasant silhouette. New hood, bumpers and headlights are all clean, elegant and subtle. 

Somewhere we still find its pleasant silhouette

Let’s behold a new set of 18-inch, 6-spoke alloy wheels filled in the wheel arches

However, those things are not what make you aroused most. Let’s behold a new set of 18-inch, 6-spoke alloy wheels filled in the wheel arches. How handsome!

Subjectively, the Isuzu Dmax appearance has never let us down. The inside, inversely, needs more work. In spite of being solid, easy-to-cleanse and well-wearing, the Isuzu Dmax 2018 interior is overflowed with plastic. The biggest sinner, not a soul else, is climate control system which abuses considerable space of the cabin, not to mention its hard-to-use for first-time drivers. Apart from this, other parts are easier to use.

The cabin is overflowed with plastic

To tell the truth, the new Dmax has actually been re-done at some points to bring a more modern mien to the cockpit. Do you spot new leather seats and instrument cluster? More than that, the infotainment system now comes fitted with tire pressure sensors as an option and also is revised with more crunchy graphics.

Although the Isuzu D-Max’s steering wheel is not adjustable, the pick-up can still provide users a heightened level of comfort, remarkably when seated. In detail, the front seats can make you restful and comfortable during long trips and long stints in traffic. To be honest, these seats are not as helpful and practical as other sporty compact machines, but, keep in mind that it’s a pickup whose main task is howling goods. Alongside, the front seats are placed quite high, even at the lowest position, providing a dominant view for driver, yet not for newbie. As we’ve pointed out, the climate control system is actually a wrongdoer since it continues conquering the front space but thankfully, the space is still enough.

The pick-up can still provide users a heightened level of comfort, remarkably when seated

Moving back, the second-row seats are capable of comfortably sitting three adults. The second-row seats are also equipped with adjustable headrests and 3-point seat belts. Not only that, when catering only two passengers at the rear, they will be very contented with the center armrest. Being absent here is the ISOFIX child seat anchors; despite this, conventional child seats are not bad, right?

On top of that, twin glove boxes, cup holders, a profound center console bucket and others storage items turn the Dmax into a very user-friendly pick-up.

>>> Click to find our Isuzu Dmax 2017 interior review on Philkotse.com

Safety is also top concern for Isuzu regardless of a pick-up truck. In this aspect, perhaps the new Dmax can leave other trucks in the same price range far more behind. Namely, the vehicle comes standard with:

• Dual airbags
• Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) with EBD
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Hill Descent Control
• Electronic stability control with traction control
• Rear parking sensors with rear camera

Here is what the changes occur the most. The Isuzu Dmax 2018 is now motivated by an all-new 4JJ1-TCX 3.0L four-cylinder turbo diesel engine capable of dishing out 177 hp at 3,600 rpm and 380 Nm of peak torque at 2,000 rpm. This engine is part of the Blue Power Technology range, which also meets the Euro 4 emissions standard.

The Dmax is now motivated by an all-new 4JJ1-TCX 3.0L four-cylinder turbo diesel engine

Owing to this new mill, the Isuzu Dmax always feels relaxed and willing underway and never has a stressed or taxed sensation even at high speeds. Besides, this is partially thanks to coming into a goody from the N-Series that has the same engine in common. Additionally, the NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) is significantly amended. Coming aired to a 5-speed automatic transmission, the Dmax presently offers less obtrusive and smoother shifts than before. 

The Isuzu Dmax always feels relaxed and willing underway and never has a stressed or taxed sensation

What’s more is that the suspension system stays firm and very solid. With rear leaf springs, the new off-roader boasts all good qualities of a ladder-on-frame machine. There is no undesirable bouncing or bucking indeed.

The only imperfection is just some clatter at full throttle. Nonetheless, diesel-powered model users will not regard this as a big trouble.

In the matter of fuel consumption, the pick-up gets a great mileage at 7.63 km/L in the city (at 13 km/h). It is likewise a good highway rider with decent fuel efficiency of 10.52 km/L at an average speed of 54 km/h.

Isuzu D-Max: Tough Enough for Anything

The Isuzu Dmax LS 4x4 3.0 Blue Power A/T 2018 can be had for P1,670,000. This price sounds pricey but frankly speaking, it’s more affordable than the Chevy Colorado, Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

If you’re on a tight budget, let’s ponder other lower trims which are still good enough.

>>> Latest changes in Isuzu D-Max price are regularly updated here

Once and for all, the top-spec Dmax 2018 is not a crucial breakthrough for the Dmax range. The additional Euro 4 compliant engine, veritably, is a huge bonus for the cruiser. In defiance of not being as flamboyant or modern as other contenders, the Isuzu Dmax always merits to be a reliable choice in the Philippine auto market.

In all sincerity, the renowned pick-up truck from Isuzu is not for those who’re seeking for a glossy and sleek toy, yet for Pinoy drivers who are into practical, strong and comfortable workhorse.

Hope that our Isuzu Dmax 2018 Philippines Review has given you useful information for your car search!