Just a year after its global launch, the third-generation Isuzu D-Max has won the “Best Pickup truck” at the Business Vans Awards. For those unaware, the said award is given by Business Vans, a UK-based website focusing on commercial vehicles and fleet cars in general. To this end, this is a testament to the D-Max's versatility, durability, and onboard features.
The all-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max
To be specific, the D-Max's third-generation model has received significant updates which makes it suitable as a reliable, all-around utility vehicle. According to Business Vans Managing Editor Chris Wright, the new Isuzu-made truck provides excellent driver comfort, great cargo carrying abilities, off-road capability, safety, and on-board tech.
Business Vans also had to account for the fact that this model is also one of the few pickup trucks to be bestowed a five-star safety rating from the notoriously strict and thorough European New Car Assessment Program. This is thanks to its array of driver-assist features, combined with its structurally strong ladder-frame chassis and passive safety equipment.
The ADAS and its new interior features contribute a lot of the D-Max's desirability
Of note, the Philippine-spec D-Max LS-E largely shares the same specs as the top-spec Euro variant. It comes with a lot of active safety technologies in the form of Isuzu’s Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS). This kit includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, among others. With these features, the Isuzu-made truck also has a five-star rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (ASEAN NCAP).
Moreover, the third-gen D-Max's new engine is still based on the highly reputable Isuzu J-series turbodiesel mill. Called the 4JJ3-TCX, it comes with new improvements like a new variable geometry turbocharger, new engine castings using Isuzu's very own patented aluminum cylinder head, and many other new components.
The Philippine-spec D-Max LS-E's plush interior
At most, the Philippine-spec 2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0-liter variants can make up to 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. There’s also a more economical 1.9-liter, which can produce up to 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. Either engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual transmission. Only the 3.0-liter variants can either come with a 4x4 or 4x2 drivetrain, while the 1.9-liter variants are only available with 4x2.
The 2021 Isuzu D-Max LS-E top-of-the-line variant features an upmarket interior. It now comes with leather seats and interior surfaces, a larger 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a push to start button, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic air-conditioning with rear vents, and many other niceties.
Currently, the price of the Isuzu D-Max in the local market ranges from Php 857,000 to Php 1,825,000. For the latest car news, keep reading here on Philkotse.com.