The third-generation 2021 Isuzu D-Max is already out in the Philippine market. It was launched in March, so without a doubt some folks are already receiving their units.
The 2021 Isuzu D-Max LS-E in stock form
While most of the D-Max owners will be keeping their pickup trucks in stock form, some are already thinking of spicing them up. But how does one go about dressing up their burly truck? To answer that, let’s take some inspiration from two markets that have received the all-new D-Max earlier than the Philippines, Australia, and Thailand.
2021 Isuzu D-Max Full Review: Huge changes for the new-generation model
Ready for the outback
If you want to make your 2021 D-Max more capable off-road, one should take a look at how the Aussies are modifying their Isuzu-made trucks. This is of course made easier for the folks from down-under since famed Aussie-based off-road accessory company ARB has already released some juicy aftermarket bits for the D-Max.
For starters, the company currently has the new ARB Summit bull bar. It provides added protection for the front fascia and the engine bay, and it also offers mounting points for accessories like lights and winches. Plus, it provides the truck a bullish, toughened-up look that will turn heads.
A third-gen D-Max fully-kitted out with ARB accessories
The Aussie company also released a new version of their canopies to fit the new Isuzu model. They are weatherproof, and will definitely help keep your stuff dry and safe. For those adventurous types, the ARB canopy can even function as a make-shift sleeping pod.
For the underside of the truck, one should also consider a skid plate. ARB has developed one for the new D-Max, and its three sections are entirely made out of 3mm steel. If you have the aforementioned Summit Bullbar, installing this part is as easy as bolting it on.
>>> Related: 2021 Isuzu D-Max Old vs New: Spot the differences
The 2021 D-Max equipped with an ARB Canopy
In terms of off-road suspension systems, both Old Man Emu and Ironman already produce kits for the all-new D-Max. For Iron Man, their setup for the D-Max includes front and rear shock absorbers, front coilsprings, front strut shock absorbers, rear shock absorbers, and a beefier set of rear leaf springs.
Old Man Emu’s kit consists of front coilovers with matching shocks, as well as a set of rear leaf springs with matching shocks. Apart from providing the necessary flexibility for off-road use, this kit also increases the height of the 2021 D-Max by 40mm.
>>> Related: ISUZU D-MAX 2013 FOR SALE
Lowered, Thai-style
While the Aussies lean towards modifying the D-Max for off-roading, the Thais have other ideas for the 2021 D-Max. To put it simply, the most popular way of modifying the Isuzu-made truck in Thailand right now is lowering it, and giving it wider wheels wrapped with grippy tires.
As a nod to this trend, Isuzu even rolled out two lowered third-gen D-Max pickups at the 2020 Bangkok International Motorshow. Both of these had carbon fiber exterior pieces, larger brakes, and bucket seats.
It looks downright awesome, right?
>>> Related: Isuzu D-Max: How much do you need to earn to buy one?
So how does one go about lowering the Isuzu D-Max? Well, the more popular solution in the land of smiles is aftermarket coil overs with height adjustment, lowering springs, or outright cutting the existing springs.
There’s also the cheap alternative of acquiring the stock springs of the low-to-the-ground single-cab models and transplanting it on a dual-cab. But then again, single cab pickup trucks are also all the rage in Thailand right now so most who want a low-slung D-Max often start with a single cab model anyway.
Of note, the aforementioned single-cab D-Max variant is currently the entry-level model for the Philippine market. Its price sits at Php 857,000. The top-spec D-Max LS-E. on the other hand, can be had for Php 1,825,000.
The entry-level 2021 Isuzu D-Max Singlecab
So, what do you think? Do you want to turn your 2021 D-Max into a capable off-roader? Or do you want to try to emulate the Thai-style lowered D-Max?
For more automotive news, keep it here on Philkotse.com.
Know more about Isuzu D-Max 2024
The Isuzu D-Max 2024 is a 5-seater pickup truck that is available in several variants with various options for a 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain. Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) is offering this truck at a price that ranges from Php 938,000 to Php 1,945,000. There are two engine options powering the D-Max. One is a 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC inline-4 turbodiesel engine that makes 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, while the other is a 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX inline-4 turbodiesel engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. Either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission can be paired to the said engines.
In terms of dimensions, the D-Max spans 5,277 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height. It boasts a ground clearance rated at 240 mm, as well as a wheelbase of 3,125 mm. Some of the competitors of the Isuzu pickup truck in the Philippines are the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, and Mazda BT-50.
>>> New and used Isuzu D-Max 2024 for sale in the Philippines
Isuzu D-Max Launch
Isuzu Philippines launched the new D-Max in March 2021. The brand offers the third-generation D-Max with a couple of engine and transmission options.
In April 2023, Isuzu PH then brought in the facelifted model that carries a whole host of exterior changes.
As of now, the Isuzu D-Max 2024 Philippines is available in up to 12 variants.
Isuzu D-max Exterior
The facelifted 2024 Isuzu D-max features an all-new exterior design that now comes with a more aggressive and bolder appeal. The D-Max also retains its angular look which adds to the pickup truck’s overall muscular demeanor.
The top-spec 2024 D-Max LS-E variant gets a pair of sharp-looking LED headlights that are integrated with U-shaped daytime running lights. The D-Max’s grille was restyled, and it now comes in a two-tone black-colored finish, which allows the truck to have a more beefed-up appearance as compared to the older version. Lastly, the D-Max’s Philippines angular bumper comes with LED fog lamps.
Other new bits added to the 2024 model include grey-colored over-fenders, cargo extenders, and front bumper guards. It likewise gets a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels sporting a new design.
Isuzu D-max Interior
Inside, the 2024 Isuzu D-Max retains a refined more premium-looking than the old model. This is specifically seen in the top LS-E variant of the D-Max that comes with a two-tone interior theme of black and brown.
It also gets leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster display. You can also see brown accents on the door panels, which gives the cabin a premium-looking appeal. Right at the center of the dashboard, you’ll see a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. Placed below it are tactile buttons for air climate control.
Technology & Safety Features
The 2024 Isuzu D-Max is equipped with a boatload of tech and safety features. First up, the 10.1-inch touchscreen comes with Apple CarPlay and Android compatibility. It also has a built-in navigation system. The said features are standard in almost all of the variants of the 2021 D-Max except for the Single Cab and LT variants.
In terms of safety, the top-spec 2024 D-Max trim is equipped with a total of seven airbags while the rest of the variants gets two. The D-Max LT, LS, LS-A, and LS-E get an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. On the other hand, it is only the LS, LS-A, and LS-E variants that feature electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, and hill descent control.
The top-spec D-Max Philippines is the only variant equipped with the Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS), a tech that’s similar to Subaru’s EyeSight.
Platform & Chassis
The Isuzu D-Max comes with a double-wishbone suspension for the front and a leaf spring on the rear. In terms of braking power, the D-Max gets a ventilated disc for the front while a drum brake is on the rear.
Engine & Drivetrain
The brand offers the third-generation D-Max with a couple of engine and transmission options. The first option is a 1.9L turbo diesel that produces 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. For car buyers who are looking for more power, they can opt for the bigger mill, which is the 3.0L engine that pumps out 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. These two engines are equipped with the brand’s BluePower technology for Euro 4 compliance and better fuel efficiency. Both engines can be paired with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.
Available colors for the Isuzu D-Max Philippines are Valencia Orange, Splash White, Sapphire Blue, Onyx Black, Red Spinel, Galena Gray, and Mercury Silver.
The competition in the pickup truck segment in the Philippines is tight. But in terms of power, the Isuzu D-Max hasn't reached the 500 Club just yet unlike the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. Regardless, the D-Max offers top-notch reliability and durability.
Isuzu D-Max 2024 Price List
Let's check out the Isuzu D-Max 2024 price in September in the Philippines.
| Variants | Price |
|---|---|
| Isuzu D-MAX RZ4E Single Cab 4x2 MT | ₱938,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX RZ4E 4x2 LT MT | ₱1,048,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 Single Cab 4x4 MT | ₱1,178,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LT MT | ₱1,299,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A MT | ₱1,400,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A MT Plus | ₱1,440,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A AT | ₱1,470,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A AT Plus | ₱1,510,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-E AT | ₱1,695,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LS-A MT | ₱1,710,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LS-A MT Plus | ₱1,750,000 |
| Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LS-E AT | ₱1,945,000 |
Isuzu D-Max Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reliability and durability are expected
- Impressive 1.9-liter engine
- Rugged exterior design
- New wheels are better-looking compared to the old model's.
Cons
- Use of leaf spring can be an issue for some
Isuzu D-Max FAQs
1. How much is the Isuzu D-Max 2024 in the Philippines?
The price of Isuzu D-Max ranges from 938,000 Php for entry-level to 1,945,000 Php for top-of-the-line.
2. What is the ground clearance of the new Isuzu D-Max?
The ground clearance of the new Isuzu D-Max is 240mm.
3. Is Isuzu D-Max a Pickup truck?
Yes, D-Max is a Pickup truck.
4. Does Isuzu D-Max have a reverse camera?
Yes, it does. With the reverse camera, you can see what is behind the car on the screen.
5. What is the Wheelbase of Isuzu D-Max Philippines?
Wheelbase of D-Max is 3,125 mm.
₱ 917,000 - ₱ 1,905,000
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