Isuzu D-Max

Isuzu D-Max (Malaysia, pre-facelift)

The D-Max pickup truck received its 2002 world premiere in Thailand.[6] This location was chosen because GM-Isuzu had recently decided to close their small truck assembly plant in Japan and move their joint operation to Thailand.[6] The D-Max is available in various models. The Spark (single cab) (EX) is available only as a 4x2, with three configurations between cab chassis, long bed with power steering and without. SpaceCabs (extended cab), and Cab4s (double cab) can be divided into two major configurations: standard height 4x2s (SL, SX, SLX), and 4x4s (S and LS) with the "Rodeo" name instead of SpaceCab. Crew cabs are all sold with the same Cab4 name (Cab4 models became available late in last quarter). All are built and sold alongside the almost identical Chevrolet Colorado which had debuted in the late first quarter of 2004.

Engine choices for that year till the end of third quarter of 2004 derived from its direct predecessor: 4JH1-T 3.0 and 4JA1-T 2.5.

Hi-Lander 3.0 (lifted 4x2), the trim style became available in late 2003, and ground clearance equals that of the 4x4 models. There are only two cab styles to choose between. This makes Isuzu the third manufacturer in Thailand to begin selling lifted 4x2 pickups (after Toyota and Ford).

In October 2004, Isuzu introduced the DDi iTEQ common-rail diesel engine family for the D-Max. The first engine to appear was the 3.0 4JJ1-TC 146 PS (107 kW; 144 hp), however, since then, a design change in the front end of the car has forced engine alterations. Additionally, new MUA-5H five-speed manual transmission also introduced.

2008 Chevrolet LUV D-MAX 3.5V6 (Chile)

Facelift Chevrolet D-Max LS (Chile)

Interior

During the first quarter of 2005, a 2.5 4JK1-TC 116 PS (85 kW; 114 hp), the second DDi iTEQ engine, was introduced and offered as an economical choice to replace its aging predecessor (4JA1-T was concurrently available for that year only). A mid-cycle refresh brought many models fitted with a new front bumper that incorporated an "instant spoiler" underneath, 4x4 models and Hi-Lander's suspensions were raised up 25 millimeters extra.

In the third quarter of 2006, the D-Max received a minor redesign and the introduction of a third DDi iTEQ engine, 3.0 4JJ1-TCX. This engine is a modified 4JJ1-TC, incorporating a new Variable Valve Geometry Turbo (VGS). The extra power warranted an introduction of new transmissions as well: the MUX 5-Speed manual and MaxMatic-III automatic transmission. All models equipped with Xenon headlamps were changed to projector headlamps instead. Also introduced was the new "Hexapod-plot" interior. Other DDi iTEQ engines were also tweaked a bit for extra power and efficiency.

In 2007, Isuzu celebrated its 50th anniversary in Thailand with "Gold Series" models sold for the 2008 model year. The Hi-Lander Cab4 model with the VGS turbodiesel engine became available for the first time. The 4x4 models get a new front bumper design with chrome accents. Also added was the choice of a 2.5l 4-cylinder engine in LS 4x4 and Hi-Lander models.

During the middle of the first quarter of 2008, the Rodeo LS and Hi-Lander SpaceCab were also fitted with the 3.0-liter VVGS Turbodiesel engine to fill all the remaining gaps in the lineup.

In the early fourth quarter of 2008, Isuzu introduced D-Max Platinum models for 2009 to replace the outgoing Gold Series. LS 4x4 and Hi-Lander received new fascia; chrome on LS 4x4 and semi platinum-silver on Hi-Lander. Minor-modified headlamps and new fog lamps for a platinum look. 4x2 SLX and SX derived fascias from 4x4/Hi-Lander (before Platinum's fascia). Chrome fascia for 3.0 SLX models and color-keyed fascia for SX. Top heads of 3 DDi iTEQ engines changed from gold to platinum. Some models dropped 4JJ1-TC 3.0l engine. All retooled to be acceptable with Biodiesel B5. All SpaceCab models featured new middle pillars called Safety Pillar Cab; pillars and door beam larger and thicker. Not all Cab4 models received retooled rear suspension called Super Flex Plus suspension. Spark EX also received new gauge and indicator. D-Max Platinum models commenced on sale from 15 October.

In the middle of September 2009, Isuzu introduced the D-Max Super Platinum models. SL model was dropped. Highline SLX 4x2 models received same fascia and front bumper as Hi-Lander / LS 4x4 style, new 16" wheels and newer styles of alloy wheels for SLX / Hi-Lander / LS 4x4, newer rear bumper, and new "Super Platinum" marque at the tailgate. LS 4x4 models received skid plate attached under the bumper in brighter silver, newer sidestep. Highline Hi-Lander / LS 4x4 models have newer style blind spot rear view mirrors, and new short-plot antenna.

Every year since late 2005 until now, there are several special D-Max & MU-7 models. Available exclusively only for a period during Thailand's 2 largest auto shows and also other special Isuzu occasions. They were all unique yet never the same in each presentation. D-Max Smart models are such one remarkably special model set. Available in several occasions during 2008. This edition modifies SpaceCab 4x2 2.5 by special white pearl exterior color and optional equipment such as immobilizer key.

Ever since Platinum models introduced, D-Max Smart models expanded up to 3 choices: SpaceCab 4x2, Cab4 4x2, and Hi-Lander 2-Door. These 3 models also updated as new Super Platinum models.

In 2009, a sport version of the D-Max named the X-Series was introduced, aimed especially for a target group of young people normally not interested in using pickup trucks. It was marketed as a "Lifestyle Pickup" and equipped with additional skirts and prominent red Isuzu letters at front grille. The wheels remain unchanged from the normal model but came with gunmetal paint finish. Available in two-door SpaceCab and four-door Cab4 body variants with a manual transmission.

In 2010, D-Max and MU-7 Super Titanium models were introduced. It featured a frontal camera, usually found in luxury cars, first time ever in a Thai pickup, and are the last model in this generation.

In late 2010, revised D-Max X-Series was introduced with new skirts and automatic transmission also available.

– Gold Series – Platinum – Smart – Super Platinum – Super Titanium – X-Series – Modern Move (only in Double-cab 4-door)

List of the special editions of MU-7

– Gold Series – Platinum – Super Platinum – Super Titanium – Groove (use newly designed of Kenwood entertainment system, standard rear DVD monitor) – Choiz

The first generation Isuzu D-Max was launched in June 2005.[7] In the year 2007, Isuzu Malaysia has revealed the latest facelift of its Isuzu D-Max double cab pick-up truck, which has a few improvements in terms of the 3.0 litre engine which now has more power and 19% more fuel efficiency than the pre-facelift version.[8] Another new facelift was launched in 2009 and minor updates occurring in July 2011.[9] The limited edition has been launched for the first generation Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia. The limited-edition is the "Hi-Def" from September 2008,[10] the new limited edition "Hi-Def" launched from June 2012 limited to 210 units.[11]

In China Great Wall and Foday produced the models. In Iran it was produced by Bahman and SAIPA.

Foday Explorer

Great Wall Pegasus

Great Wall SoCool

RA Rodeo

RC Colorado

In Australia and New Zealand, the D-Max was sold as the third generation Holden Rodeo (RA) between 2003 and 2008, before being facelifted into the form of the Holden Colorado. This was a result of the GM-Isuzu split resulting in GM losing the right to use the "Rodeo" name.[12] As with Rodeo, Colorado is available as either two- or four-wheel drive and in a range of body styles including single cab, space cab and crew cab. Power is provided by a range of petrol and diesel engines.[13] Of the petrol engines, Holden offers a 2.4-litre four-cylinder as well as the Australian-made 3.6-litre Alloytec engine. The diesel powerplant is a four-cylinder Isuzu 4JJ1 unit displacing 3.0 litres. The main difference between Colorado and the Rodeo is the revised bodywork from the A-pillar forward.

During October 2008, the Isuzu D-Max was launched in Australia, alongside the almost identical Holden Colorado.[14] Officially available in Australia as its own brand under the marketing name Isuzu UTE Australia, separate to the medium-heavy truck manufacturer, Isuzu Australia.[15]

In June 2012, the RC series Holden Colorado was replaced by the RG model based on the second-generation D-Max body.[16]

In June 2010, Isuzu Utes New Zealand became the official distributor for Isuzu D-Max in New Zealand.[17][18][19]

In the United Kingdom, Isuzu UK is the official distributor for the Isuzu D-Max in summer 2012.[20]

Julie Beamer, director of GM Chile, announced on 5 March 2008 to workers of the only remaining automobile factory in Chile, that said factory would be closed down on 31 July that year.[21][22] The only vehicle that was in production at the time was the Chevrolet D-Max. The announcement came shortly after then-president of Venezuela Hugo Chávez reduced the import quota for cars in Venezuela, the main export market for the Chilean-made Chevrolet D-Max,[23] but GM Chile said in its official statement that the reason behind the end of production in Arica was the lack of favorable conditions for vehicle manufacturing in Chile and fierce competition from many other car manufacturers and countries on Chile's car market.[24]

Chevrolet Colorado

Thai-market Colorado is smaller than the North American model of the same name and almost unrelated.[25] In late January 2006, Chevrolet introduced a G-80 differential lock system as optional for most Colorado trim levels.[25] This feature is not available on the D-Max. Thai-market Colorado received a minor redesign in late 2007.[25]

The late first quarter of 2008, Chevrolet also introduced Colorado 4x2 2.5 with diesel dual fuel system via CNG tank.[25] Switchable between diesel (65) and compressed natural gas (35) as the divided aspect (65:35); moreover also can use diesel purely as well.[26] Biodiesel B5 is also acceptable.[26] Location of the tank is on the bed behind the cab. Available for two cab styles.[26]

Isuzu MU-7 (510)
Overview
Also called	Isuzu Alterra (Philippines)
Production	2004–2013
Assembly	Thailand: Samut Prakan (Isuzu Motors (Thailand) Co., Ltd.)
Body and chassis
Class	Mid-size SUV
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel drive Front-engine, four-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine	3.0 L I4 4JJ1-TC (t/c diesel) (2004 - 2013) 3.0 L I4 4JJ1-TCX (t/c diesel) (2007 - 2013)
Transmission	MUA-5H 5-Speed manual MaxMatic-II 4-Speed automatic (2004 - 2006) MUX 5-speed manual MaxMatic-III 4-Speed automatic transmission (2007 - 2013)
Dimensions
Length	4,955 mm (195.1 in)
Width	1,800 mm (70.9 in)
Height	1,805 mm (71.1 in)
Chronology
Predecessor	Isuzu Wizard
Successor	Isuzu MU-X

Isuzu MU-7

The Isuzu MU-7 is an Isuzu D-Max pickup-based wagon with a seven-seat arrangement. The MU-7 was released in Thailand during November 2004.[27] as the "Sport Utility Wagon" and received advertising.

The MU-7 has the same front fascia as the D-Max but has a covered rear end instead of a truck bed. It is only available in some countries of Southeast Asia. In the Philippines, this model is called the Isuzu Alterra.

Since the early launch, the drivetrain choices are 4x2 and 4x4. All come with one engine: the 3.0 4JJ1-TC DDi iTEQ engine.

Special suspension set which exclusively reserved for all MU-7 is called MOVE suspension. Front: Double Wishbone, torsion bar, anti-roll bar, gas-type shock absorber. Rear: SUV-type leaf springs via gas-type shock absorber.

In the late third quarter of 2006, the MU-7 range of models was updated and separated as Primo (4x2) and Activo (4x4). With a new 3.0 4JJ1-TCX DDi iTEQ, new transmissions were implemented as well: MUX five-speed manual and MaxMatic-III automatic transmission. Also new was the interior, incorporating a console with wood decoration and new "best" seat upholstery.

And just as for the Gold Series and D-Max, both MU-7 Primo GS and Activo GS also receive gold Isuzu badges in 3 locations. GS models also come equipped with a new navigation entertainment system incorporating a new reverse assist (with the camera from Kenwood), all optional since early 2008. Primo and Activo received Wide Vision blind-spot rear view mirror. Also added was the additional new low-cost 4x2 model, the S (with DDI ITEQ 3.0-litre (146 PS)), which is priced below the Primo.

MU-7 Platinum models commenced on the market by 1 November 2008. Frontal changed a bit by platinum tone. Revamped fenders and side trims (by lower tone). But emphasized much in inner accessories. Such as new DVD/VCD/MP3/DiVX player with 2 USB slots via 2 units of 8.1' touch-screen (one at the console and one at the second-row ceiling), built-in Bluetooth and Graphic Equalizer function. All this applied to Highline Primo and Activo models. All models also received platinum painted engines. MOVE suspension for Activo and Primo also retooled. S model receives automatic transmission as optional.

MU-7 Super Platinum models were introduced in the same month as D-Max. Exterior fitted newer front bumper, newer style alloy wheels (except S), newer blind spot rear view mirrors, and newer choice of exterior colors. Models with 3.0 VGS Turbo also received light silver decorations at the scoop rim. Interior featuring new Giallo Walnut wood decorations by console and transmission base. Primo and Activo models equipped with i-GENii (Genius Exploring Network Interactive Intelligence) GPS touchscreen navigation system as standard equipment; with a Thai language menu and Thai voice assistance. Users can always update the database/map.

In April 2011, MU-7 "Choiz" was revealed at the Bangkok Motor Show, with new alloy wheels and small changes to the interior.

In December 2011, the MU-7 "Choiz" was facelifted, with new alloy wheels. Available in 4WD, 2WD 3000 VGS Turbo (4JJ1-TCX 3000cc Diesel Turbo Engine) and 2WD 3000 Ddi (4JJ1-TC 3000cc Diesel Turbo Engine)

2015 facelift

In 2015, The updated D-Max was introduced in Thailand, codenamed 'RT85'. The front fascia was changed with a larger grille and new engine "RZ4E-TC" 1.9L debuted and permanently replaced the 2.5L from the outgoing model. Interior remained unchanged from the old model except for some changes including newer 8" inch infotainment system, newer TFT gauges, and cruise control.

In 2017, the D-Max was updated again in Thailand, with a newer front grille and bumper with Bi-LED Projector Headlamp with LED daytime running lamps, newer alloy wheels and some several changes in the interior for the 2018 model year.

In December 2012, the D-Max X-Series was launched in Thailand. Available in three models choices; SpaceCab Z model was called Speed model, Hi-Lander 2-door in Z model and Hi-Lander 4-door in Z-Prestige model. The exterior has a strip line decal on the body, piano-black front grille with the Isuzu badging in red, skirt around the body and black alloy wheel. The interior has a black and red cloth and leather for the Z-Prestige model. The Isuzu logo on the steering wheel were changed to red color. Exterior color choices are black and white.

In June 2014, a new red exterior color was added in the D-Max X-Series Speed model, called "Speed in Red". Only 300 units were sold.

In South Africa, D Max pick-ups are sold as the Isuzu KB Bakkie. But as of 2018, the KB is now called D-Max.[35]

In the Philippines, the second generation was launched in September 2013.[36] Isuzu's plans for production of the D-Max was temporarily in Thailand, and by October, the new D-Max was produced at Binan plant until 2019 when Isuzu Philippines announced that they will stop local production of the D-Max and instead import the D-Max from Thailand. In October 2017, Isuzu Philippines has unveiled the 3.0 TD "Blue Power" diesel engine, along with MU-X.[37]

The second generation D-Max was launched in September 2011.[38]

The second generation Isuzu D-Max was launched in Malaysia in May 2013.[39] The second-generation Isuzu D-Max to "Elevate Your Journey" is the promotional slogan for the new vehicle in Malaysia.[40] A facelift was launched in October 2016[41] and minor updates occurring in February 2018.[42] Multiple limited editions have been launched for the second generation Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia. The limited editions are the "X-Series" from November 2013 limited to 300 units, the "Artic" from September 2014 limited to 510 units[43] and the "Beast" from May 2016 limited to 360 units.[44] On September 18, 2019, Isuzu Malaysia company had launched the Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Ddi BluePower turbodiesel engine (codename RZ4E-TC), and this is the latest Isuzu D-Max pickup in Malaysia.[45]

Isuzu D-Max (China)

In China, the second-generation D-Max was launched on 7 December 2014 by Jiangxi Isuzu Motors.[46] The engine is 4JK1 2.5 L diesel with 5-speed manual/automatic transmission in 2WD and 4WD model.

All-new Isuzu D-Max for European market use 2.5-liter twin-turbo diesel that make 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) power and 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) of torque, 5-speed manual replaced with 6-speed one
In UK, range are Single Cab, Extended Cab, Double Cab, Double Cab Eiger, Double Cab Yukon and Double Cab Utah and all except Single Cab use 4x4 powertrain as standard and featuring standard features like, 6 Airbags, Stability Control, Daytime running lights, Rev counter, Air conditioning, Front electric windows and Immobilizer and pricing start from GBP14,499 on the road in 4x2 single cab to GBP21,499 on the road in 4x4 double cab Utah with automatic.
In Turkey, available only in single cab (only one model in range) and double cab body and double cab range is HT (4x2 manual), T (4x4 manual), Limited (4x2 and 4x4 manual) and V-Cross (4x4 automatic), pricing start from 48,700 TL to 76,700 TL.
In August 2012, Euro NCAP crash test result for Isuzu D-Max is 4 out from 5 stars and 83% of adult protection.[47] In some markets, the D-Max range consists of Single Cab, Space Cab and Double Cab vehicles available in three different trim levels: LX, LS and LSX. LX versions are only available with a 6-speed manual transmission made by AISIN. LS and LSX models have the option of a 5-speed AISIN automatic transmission.

In Egypt, a 2-door commercial variant of the D-Max is sold as the Chevrolet T-Series. It is powered by a 2.5-liter diesel producing 58 kW (79 PS; 78 hp) and 176 N⋅m (130 lb⋅ft) torque.[48]

Isuzu MU-X (RF10/20)
Overview
Production	2013–present (RF10) 2017–present (RF20)
Assembly	Thailand: Samut Prakan (Isuzu Motors Thailand) India: Sri City (Isuzu Motors India) China: Jiangxi
Body and chassis
Class	Mid-size SUV
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel drive Front-engine, four-wheel drive
Related	Chevrolet Colorado Chevrolet Trailblazer
Powertrain
Engine	1.9 L (116 cu in) RZ4E-TC I4 (diesel) (2016–present) 2.5 L (153 cu in) 4JK1-TCX I4 (diesel) (2013–present) 3.0 L (183 cu in) 4JJ1-TCX I4 (diesel) (2013–present)
Transmission	5-speed manual (2013–present) 5-speed automatic (2013–2016) 6-speed manual (2016–present) 6-speed automatic (2016–present)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,845 mm (112.0 in)
Length	4,825 mm (190.0 in)
Width	1,860 mm (73.2 in)
Height	1,840 mm (72.4 in)
Chronology
Predecessor	Isuzu MU-7/Alterra

The Isuzu MU-X is the successor to the Isuzu MU-7. It is a mid-size SUV, with a seven-seat body on frame. In Thailand this kind of vehicle is called a "PPV", or Pickup Purpose Vehicle, as it is developed from a pickup truck. The Isuzu D-Max on which the MU-X is based is a collaboration between General Motors and Isuzu and is related with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer/Holden Colorado. Due to an agreement with GM, Chevrolet Trailblazer was released prior to MU-X. The MU-X had its world premiere in Thailand on 31 October 2013 and sold on 6 November 2013. In Australia, it was launched in December 2013. To date, the MU-X has been sold only in Thailand, Australia, Paraguay, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, China and India. Isuzu Motors has plans to market it overseas in 50 countries. In December 2013, the MU-X was showcased at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, but it is not sold in Japan. The concept of the MU-X is the car's name itself as an acronym, which is derived from the claim that the car "Makes U eXciting".

Engine and powertrain

Isuzu MU-X (RF10)

• RZ4E-TC Commonrail injection Diesel engine 4 cylinder 16-valve 1900 Ddi Blue power 150 hp (112 kW) at 3600 rpm and 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 1800–2600 rpm with 6-speed Manual and automatic transmission only in 2WD model, since 2016.
• 4JK1-TCX Commonrail injection Diesel engine 4 cylinder 16-valve 2500 Ddi VGS Turbo 136 hp (101 kW) and 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) at 1800–2800 rpm with only 5-speed automatic transmission only in 2WD model.
• 4JJ1-TCX Commonrail injection Diesel engine 4 cylinder 16-valve 3000 Ddi VGS Turbo 177 hp (132 kW) and 380 N⋅m (280 lb⋅ft) at 1800–2800 rpm with 5-speed Manual/automatic transmission (5-speed manual transmission is only in Australia Spec) available in 2WD and 4WD model with Terrain Command since 2016 change to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Suspension, Front: Independent Double Wishbone with coil spring gas shock absorbers stabilizer bar, Rear: 5-link Active suspension gas shock absorbers stabilizer bar

2017 facelift

In Thailand, the MU-X is available in three trim levels, being: Base (CD), Standard (DVD) and High (DVD Navi).

CD and DVD-trim levels are available with the 2.5-liter engine. These trims are called the 2.5 VGS CD and 2.5 VGS DVD respectively. when equipped with the 5-speed automatic (or 5-Speed Manual, which is 4x2 only). The DVD Navi trim level is available with both the 2.5- and 3.0-liter engines, with the 2.5  L engine, it is called 2.5 VGS DVD Navi, In 3.0  L engine with automatic transmission, it is badged as 3.0 VGS DVD Navi.

The 4X4 (which is 5-speed automatic only) is solely available in the 3.0 VGS DVD Navi trim level.[49]

On 14 February 2017, the facelifted MU-X was revealed in a teaser video and website.[50]

The facelifted MU-X (codename RF20), debuted on 4 March 2017 prior to the Bangkok International Motor Show. This facelift including integrated LED front and tail lights, improved interior quality with the addition of soft material, two-tone interior, improved NVH. Engines remained the same as the outgoing model.

On 9 September 2014, Isuzu Philippines Corporation officially launched the MU-X to retire the Alterra (mu-7 in other markets). Available in 3 trim levels, LS, LS-M and LS-A, and for additional ₱10,000, one can have the Silky Pearl White color. However, only the 2.5  L 4JK1-TC (Hi-power) has been made available due to fuel quality concerns. The two lower variants (LS and LS-M) are only available in 2WD and Manual Transmission while the High LS-A can be had in 2WD or 4WD Automatic Transmission with Terrain Command.[51]

In October 2015, Isuzu Philippines Corporation introduced the 3.0 4JJ1-TC (Hi-power) engine with an output of 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) and 380 N⋅m (280 lbf⋅ft) of torque. This engine differs from the global 3.0 as it is still Euro II compliant and produces less power than the 4JJ1-TCX. Apart from the new engine, a chrome tailpipe finisher, 3.0 TD chrome emblem and Daytime Running Lights are fitted as standard on the 3.0 models to differentiate them from the 2.5 models.[52]

In September 2017, as part of the 20th anniversary of Isuzu Philippines Corporation, the heavily revised Isuzu MU-X debuted in the Philippines. The Philippine-spec Isuzu MU-X gets similar features from its Thai-spec model. It gets the newer 3.0 4JJ1-TCX with Blue Power, Euro IV compliant. This new engine also powers the 2018 D-max.[53]

In China, MU-X was launched in May 2015 and was produced by Jiangxi Isuzu Motors.[54]

The third generation D-Max was launched in Thailand on 11 October 2019.[55]