Announced last month, the new Isuzu D-MAX Double Cab 1.9-litre 4×2 Manual Low Ride pick-up truck is officially launched today. Imported from Isuzu’s factory in Thailand and priced (excluding insurance) from RM92,199.20 in Peninsular Malaysia, RM94,279.60 in Sabah and RM94,170.30 in Sarawak, it is one of the most affordable pick-up trucks available in Malaysia.
The ‘Low Ride’ designation refers to the overall ride height of the vehicle being around 5% lower than standard D-MAX trucks. This is useful in operating conditions where ground clearance is not important (ie in urban conditions). With the deck floor 78 cm from road level, it makes loading and unloading easier from the cargo bed which can take up to 930 kgs of goods.
Low running costs
Apart from its lower purchase price, the D-MAX Low Ride 4×2 offers lower running costs with its proven and highly-dependable mechanicals including the 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel engine. This powerplant has proven to be big on performance yet frugal in fuel consumption, and operators will also enjoy one of the lowest annual roadtax rates among pick-up trucks in the market.
Although it is a light commercial vehicle which will be subjected to more demanding usage, Isuzu Malaysia gives a 5-year (maximum of 150,000 kms) warranty with the D-MAX Low Ride.
Equipped like a passenger car
Despite its simplicity, it is certainly not frugal in comfort and safety. For convenience, the door mirrors are power adjusted while the four windows are electrically-operated. The central locking system is speed-activated with an override button that is conveniently located for the driver to select.
In the past, pick-up trucks used to come with vinyl upholstery but even at its low price, the D-MAX Low Ride 4×2 comes with fabric-covered seats. The driver can get an ideal driving position with the steering column being adjustable for both tilt and reach while the instrument panel offers clear information through its large meters and 3.5-inch multi-information display.
Besides radio reception, the audio system has a USB port which allows connecting devices to play a personal selection of music, while a 12V socket provides power to charge devices or other equipment throughout the journey.
Safe as a car
Isuzu treats the occupants of the D-MAX Low Ride with the same respect as those of passenger cars, giving them the high levels of protection. Besides having ASEAN NCAP’s top rating of 5 stars, the truck also has a host of passive and active safety features. These include frontal airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hillstart Assist and Hill Descent Assist, as well as frontal airbags. Standard halogen headlights also provide strong illumination at night.
“The new Isuzu D-MAX Low Ride is designed to deliver significant value to its owners. The back-to-basics features and fuss-free functionality are aimed at keeping operating costs low while delivering high-levels of productivity,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s CEO, Shunsuke Okazoe.
Visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my/d-max-low-ride to locate a showroom where you can view, test and purchase the new D-MAX Low Ride as well as other Isuzu vehicles.