New Isuzu D-MAX delayed
Vehicles now expected in showrooms August, ahead of official September 1 launch dateThe Australian arrival of the much-anticipated new-generation Isuzu D-MAX ute has slipped back from mid-year into the third quarter of 2020.
While Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) refused to comment on new D-MAX timing, other carsales sources indicated an initial supply of vehicles should arrive in dealers in late July or more likely August, ahead of an official launch date around September 1.
When contacted by carsales, IUA would only concede the new RG-series Isuzu D-MAX would not launch in June as originally expected.
If the new timing is accurate that makes it a busy time for ute buyers, as the updated Toyota HiLux is due to launch in Australia in late August.
Late in the year the new Mazda BT-50 – which is based on the latest D-MAX – will also be launched in Australia.
Other new utes in Australia this year include the just-launched Jeep Gladiator, updated Nissan Navara and Great Wall Motors’ replacement for the Steed.
Complications around the COVID-19 pandemic are understood to have interrupted the new D-MAX rollout.
The plant in Thailand where it is built was shuttered for four weeks through April into early May, but is now up and running again.
Whenever it does arrive the new D-MAX will be hotly anticipated. The current generation proved a popular value-buy, ranking fifth in 4x4 pick-up/cab chassis sales in 2019.
The new D-MAX will feature a beefed-up 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. Six-speed manual and automatics will be on offer alongside 4x2 and 4x4 systems. The latter will include a two-speed transfer case and a rear locking diff.
Key numbers include a 3500kg braked towing capacity and 800mm water fording ability.
The D-MAX measures up at 5265mm long, 1870mm wide and 1790mm high. It has an approximate 1890kg kerb weight and a maximum 1024kg payload.
It is expected to add autonomous emergency braking and other driver-assist systems for the first time, as well as a new-generation infotainment including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Inside the new Isuzu features a 9.0-inch touch-screen, leather seat trim for top-spec models, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry/start and a digital speedo.
It will continue to be available in single-cab, space-cab and dual-cab body styles.
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