Our first impressions on the 2020 Isuzu D-Max
Currently, here in the Philippines, Isuzu is still selling the 2nd-generation D-Max. And guess what, loads of people are still buying the model despite the fact that it’s been around since 2012.
2020 Isuzu D-MAX - Perfect Truck!
And for good reason; it’s a robust pick-up truck with a perfect balance of power, utility, and comfort. And overall, it’s a good deal because of our excise taxes since pick-up trucks are exempt from it.
A couple of months ago, however, Isuzu revealed the all-new 3rd-generation RG01 Isuzu D-Max. It’s already available in Thailand where it’s being manufactured.
As such, we deem that it’s time to share with you our first impressions before its inevitable launch here in the country.
>>> Check out: Isuzu D-Max 2020 Philippines Review
Isuzu D-Max 2020: Exterior
On the outside, the 3rd-generation D-Max is a far cry from the previous generation model. It’s more modern looking, whilst still keeping tough and rugged design cues.
It's very mean looking that's for sure
Upfront, the Isuzu D-Max 2020 is fitted with a pair of bi-LED projector headlights whilst the rear are LEDs. Back to the front, the grille is somewhat similar as it still has those “fanged”, chrome-clad twin slats stretching across the grille.
The front fascia, however, has sharper angles and the character lines found on the sides of the hood are more prominent.
Note the integrated rear bumper found on the top of the line models
In terms of size, the new D-Max is obviously much larger than the previous version. This further emphasizes the redesigned overall look and it provides the D-Max more road presence partly due to the size and partly due to its very aggressive, Audi-esque front end.
And lastly, Isuzu improved the D-Max’s shape, making it more aerodynamic which is always a plus for traveling on the road.
>>> Suggested for you: [Pickup shootout] Isuzu D Max vs Hilux: Spec comparison of the big & tough!
Isuzu D-Max 2020: Interior and safety features
Inside, the RG01 D-Max is miles apart from the current version in terms of appearance.
On top of that, it now comes with a lot of useful features like a larger 9-inch touchscreen that’s capable of meeting your basic needs like smartphone connectivity and navigation. There’s even a voice recognition function.
What’s definitely changes apart from becoming modern and high-tech however is the new D-Max’s interior space. While the new one is a bit shorter, it’s definitely wider so we get more elbow room. Legroom is also larger due to its longer wheelbase.
This two-toned interior found on the top of the line variants is definitely, very premium looking
>>> Update now: Latest Isuzu D-Max Philippines price
Unlike most pick-up truck models who seemingly forget about passenger comfort, the D-Max comes with an AC vent for the rear and even a USB charging port.
The amount of safety features aboard the new D-Max is also impressive. It now comes with active safety systems like cross-traffic alert and a blind-spot monitoring system on top of the already competent suite of passive safety features.
>>> Read more: Isuzu D-Max 2020 unveiled. Is the 2020 Isuzu Mu-X up next?
Isuzu D-Max 2020: Performance
Under its hood, the new D-Max is powered by an improved 3.0-liter turbodiesel which can make a maximum of 188 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque.
The said engine is also mounted further into the vehicle providing more balanced. Couple to that is the fact that Isuzu has vastly improved the RG01’s steering sensitivity thus providing it with more agility.
Isuzu D-Max 2020: We’re very excited
Despite 2020 MIAS’s postponement (we were hoping to see this new model there), there’s still a lot of hype among Isuzu fans when the 3rd-generation, 2020 D-Max is concerned.
Isuzu fans are particularly loyal fans of their brand after all and a new and improved version of the well-loved D-Max marque will only drive to catch their (and our) attention.
Who wouldn't be excited?
For more first impressions on the latest car models, keep reading here on Philkotse.com.
Know more about Isuzu D-Max 2024
The Isuzu D-Max 2025 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 2025 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 2025 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 2025 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 2025 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 2025 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 2025 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 2025 Price List
Let's check out the Isuzu D-Max 2025 price 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 2025 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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