Isuzu has revealed an improved version of the D-Max pickup at its production facility in Thailand.
The unveiled changes will be rolled out across all markets, including the UK, but it will be a gradual process.
The UK saw the introduction of the third generation D-Max in 2021, some 18 months behind models going on sale in Thailand.
The pickup had a mild facelift in April 2023, but this latest refresh is set to be more substantial. Described by Isuzu as being a ‘significantly improved model’, it will benefit from a refreshed interior and a more refined exterior.
Unlike in some more minor facelifts, the changes to the exterior are very apparent. The front and rear of the vehicle have been revamped, which Isuzu believes shows the D-Max as strong, aggressive, sporty, and futuristic.
Compared to the previous model, the front grille has been extended in height and width. There’s a new power bulge added to the bonnet, too, but it’s discreet, perhaps to mask the fact we get a 1.9-litre engine rather than the 3.0-litre unit many other territories receive.
The headlight array has been thoroughly refreshed, adding to the modern, sporty look. The daytime running lights create a unique aesthetic, with an upper row of three LED light points on each side.
Around the back, the tailgate is sporting a new light design of its own — three L-shaped LEDs emphasise the vehicle's width, creating a look that Isuzu describe, perhaps a little poetically, as ‘a bird spreading its wings’.
Adding an air curtain at each front corner and an extended tailgate spoiler improves the truck's aerodynamics. There are new alloy wheel designs to finish off the look, rounding out the more dynamic style of the vehicle.
There are also some pleasing changes to the inside of the pickup, which immediately presents a more unified style than the outgoing model.
The infotainment screen is more sympathetically integrated into the dashboard and no longer has a row of physical buttons below it. Instead, there are more touch-sensitive controls and a pair of rotary dial switches, giving a more refined look. Both 8.0 and 9.0-inch options are available, each supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In front of the driver, the instrument panel has been increased in size — with the same graphics style as the infotainment system screen, the 7.0-inch panel brings design consistency to the D-Max’s interior.
The cabin's more luxurious and modern feel is further enhanced thanks to new materials and neat design touches.
Isuzu has opted to continue using leaf springs with a part-time four-wheel drive system. The system set-up appears to be unchanged from the previous model, but Isuzu says that a new rough terrain driving mode has been added, which it believes improves traction where needed, thanks to revised brake and throttle controls.
There’s updated safety equipment, with a new stereo camera system that can trigger automatic emergency braking if it detects an imminent collision with a pedestrian. While this might sound pretty run-of-the-mill, the lens has an integrated heating element, so the system should work flawlessly even in freezing temperatures.
Cross-traffic protection has been added to the upgraded reversing sensors, which will alert the driver if a vehicle is approaching from a blind spot and brake automatically if required.
Why Thailand?
It might seem a little unfair that Thailand jumps the queue for the raft of upgrades, but Isuzu has been rolling trucks off the production line there for almost half a century - more than five million trucks to date.
Thailand is also one of the largest pickup markets, with Isuzu racking-up 180,000 vehicle sales in the country in 2022, which is more than half of global D-Max sales for that year.
“Isuzu is actively taking efforts to realise a carbon-neutral society. Going forward, Isuzu plans to produce a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) pickup truck in Thailand,” said Shinsuke Minami, president and COO of Isuzu, in reference to the future of the one-tonne pickup segment. “Isuzu will first introduce it in Europe and then examine its gradual roll out by meeting the needs of each market, including Thailand. Expectations of Thailand, Isuzu’s largest market for its pickup trucks, will remain steady in the years to come. To continue to contribute to the people of Thailand, I want us to create ‘Transport’ together and for Isuzu to remain a company that captures hearts and endures for eternity.”
You can lease the current Isuzu D-Max pickup with Select Van Leasing from just £297 per month, ex vat*.
*Prices include VAT. Credit is Subject to Status, Ts and Cs and Arrangement Fees apply. Excess mileage may apply. Stock levels and prices correct as of 19/10/23.
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