X-RUNNER returns to Isuzu D-MAX range

Isuzu UTE has this week launched its heavily revised D-MAX ute and MU-X seven-seat SUV range  in Australia, led by the return of the popular D-MAX X-RUNNER limited-edition ute.

Priced from $46,990 drive-away, the D-MAX X-RUNNER includes Isuzu UTE’s stronger 430Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine and new six-speed automatic transmission as standard fare.

Externally, the D-MAX X-RUNNER is distinguished by red Isuzu badging, a 100-years decal – a nod to the brand’s 2017 centenary – gunmetal grey grille, alloys and side steps, black sports bar and under-rail tub liner.

In-cabin accoutrements include dark grey trim with piano black accents, red-stitched steering wheel and two-tone red and black sport seats.

All D-MAX X-RUNNER variants include a revering camera, climate control and reversing sensors, and are available only in pearlescent white or cosmic black paint. Only 600 examples are available.

“For several years now we have introduced a limited-edition X-RUNNER that is designed to appeal to the younger end of the segment,” explained Isuzu UTE Australia assistant general manager of marketing and public relations, Dave Harding.

“With the additional features and sharp drive-away pricing, the X-RUNNER is always an extremely attractive value proposition – and they look great – something a little different to our standard line-up.

“Previous years have seen the X-RUNNER sell out in a number of months and we expect this new version to be no different,” he added.

The D-MAX X-RUNNER is arguably the headline act of the new D-MAX ute range. Isuzu UTE says the model’s Euro5 emissions-compliant 4JJ1-TC Hi-Power engine offers 50Nm more torque than the outgoing unit, now providing a peak of 430Nm, and 380Nm (the old unit's peak figure) from 1700rpm (100rpm lower) to 3500rpm (700rpm higher). Power output remains unchanged at 130kW.

Although it's familiar to the previous model (and Isuzu's new 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine has been ruled out Down Under for now), the 3.0-litre engine is significantly redesigned.

Key changes include newly designed pistons, fuel injectors, fuel supply pump and EGR bypass valve, larger EGR cooler, ceramic glow plugs, variable geometry turbocharger, diesel particulate diffuser, and an ‘intelligent battery sensor’ to help prevent accident discharge.

The engine is now mated to a choice of a six-speed manual or close-ratio six-speed automatic transmission ($2100) across the board, the latter an Aisin-sourced AWR6B45 unit whose torque converter now locks in all gears bar first to further improve fuel economy. Isuzu UTE says the new D-MAX delivers fuel economy of between 7.2-8.1L/100km on a combined cycle, plus CO2 emissions ranging between 190 to 209 grams per kilometre. Corresponding figures for the MU-X are 8.0-8.1L/100km and 211 to 214 grams per kilometre.

Isuzu UTE’s new D-MAX and MU-X range is recognised by what it says it’s a “heavy-duty and purposeful appearance”. The front-end and bonnet are new, as is the headlight design that now incorporates projector-style main beams and LED daytime running lights on LS grades. EX and SX variants continue to offer a halogen globe. The alloy wheel design is updated on LS-T models.

Inside, the D-MAX and MU-X receive a reversing camera as standard on LS grades, an accessory unit offered on D-MAX SX and EX variants. D-MAX SX and LS-M models also adopt a 7.0-inch touch-screen infotainment interface with eight-speaker audio system.

Higher grade LS-U and LS-T models score an 8.0-inch array with proprietary sat-nav. All models now offer three USB ports.

Thanks to improved aerodynamics, the cabin of the D-MAX and MU-X is now quieter than before, and with the increased use of high-tensile steel also stronger than before.

Isuzu UTE says the changes, along with anti-intrusion door beams, improve occupant protection, as do electronic driver aids that include six airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control, hill-start and hill-descent assist.

Top-tether and ISOFIX child-seat anchors are included, as are adjustable head-restraints, and front seatbelts with dual-pretensioners and load-limiters.

All Isuzu UTE D-MAX and MU-X variants are backed by the manufacturer’s Service Plus 555 five-year warranty, roadside assistance and capped-price servicing program.

Since 2008 Isuzu UTE has continued to sell impressive numbers. In 2016 the 4X2 utility range finished third behind Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, also outnumbering Holden Colorado in December (2016). The seven-seat MU-X SUV meanwhile holds a 5.9 per cent slice of the market.

“For eight years straight now we have posted significant growth – no easy feat when you’re competing in the market’s most competitive segments – and that’s a testament to the hard work of our dealer network and staff,” Isuzu UTE Australia CEO and managing director, Yasuhiro Takeuchi, told motoring.com.au.

“We have some exciting developments planned for both the business and our products that will enhance our existing customers’ experience and also attract new buyers to our brand, so I’m confident we will continue to prosper in 2017,” he concluded.

2017 Isuzu UTE D-MAX 4X2 pricing (plus ORCs):
SX Single-Cab/Cab-Chassis -- $28,500 (man only)
SX Single-Cab/Cab-Chassis Hi-Ride -- $31,700 (auto only)
SX Crew-Cab/Pick-Up -- $34,500 (man only)
SX Space-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $35,500 (auto only)
SX Crew-Cab/Cab-Chassis Hi-Ride -- $37,300 (auto only)
SX Crew-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $38,000 (auto only)
LS-U Crew-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $43,600 (auto only)

2017 Isuzu UTE D-MAX 4x4 pricing (plus ORCs):
EX Single-Cab/Cab-Chassis Hi-Ride -- $34,800 (man)
SX Single-Cab/Cab-Chassis Hi-Ride -- $38,000 (man) / $40,100 auto)
SX Space-Cab/Cab-Chassis Hi-Ride -- $40,700 (man) / $42,800 (auto)
SX Crew-Cab/Cab-Chassis Hi-Ride -- $43,200 (man) / $45,300 (auto)
SX Crew-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $43,900 (man) / $46,000 (auto)
LS-M Space-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $46,200 (man) / $48,300 (auto)
LS-M Crew-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $46,400 (man) / $48,500 (auto)
X-RUNNER Crew-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $46,990 (auto, drive-away)
LS-U Crew-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $48,300 (man) / $50,400 (auto)
LS-T Crew-Cab/Pick-Up Hi-Ride -- $54,200 (auto only)

2017 Isuzu UTE MU-X 4X2 pricing (plus ORCs):
LS-M seven-seat SUV -- $41,800 (auto only)
LS-U seven-seat SUV -- $43,800 (auto only)
LS-T seven-seat SUV -- $47,500 (auto only)

2017 Isuzu UTE MU-X 4x4 pricing:
LS-M seven-seat SUV -- $47,000 (man) / $49,100 (auto)
LS-U seven-seat SUV -- $49,000 (man) / $51,100 (auto)
LS-T seven-seat SUV -- $54,800 (auto)