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Isuzu D-Max 2012 driving report: This is the new Isuzu pickup

Torsten Seibt
Geneva Auto Salon 2020
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A uch Isuzu is bringing a completely new pickup for 2012. The successor to the tried and tested Isuzu D-Max has a completely new four-cylinder diesel, a fresh design and considerably more equipment options. In Thailand we were now able to try out the new generation of models for the first time.

Isuzu D-Max 2012 driving report

The trip to Thailand has a good reason: During the Isuzu D-Max in Germany, a rather is a rare sight, it is a high-flyer in Thailand, where it is also built. Pickups account for up to 70 percent of all annual new registrations in the Asian kingdom, and the D-Max is currently (behind the Hilux) in second place. Isuzu was able to sell over 1.2 million units of the previous model.

The (in Europe) second generation of the Isuzu D-Max - version one debuted in 2002 - is a completely new design. The new generation D-Max will be coming to Germany from June. The new Isuzu D-Max has grown significantly in terms of dimensions. The wheelbase grows by 45 to 3,095 millimeters, and the new D-Max also grows considerably in width (+60 mm) and track width. The length of the D-Max has grown from 5.05 to now 5.29 meters. The wider track ensures safer driving behavior than the predecessor, and the German version also features modern safety features such as ESP, traction control and electronic brake force distribution. Six airbags will be standard in the future.

Instead of the previous two engines, Isuzu is now concentrating on a single four-cylinder variant on the European market. The new biturbo diesel has a displacement of 2.5 liters, delivers 163 hp and 400 Newton meters of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox is flanged on as standard; a new, electronically controlled automatic gearbox with five stages and manual shift mode is available for an additional charge. With the new machine, Isuzu also wants to bring the most economical pick-up onto the German market: The standard consumption is specified as 7.4 liters.

This is how the new D-Max drives

You not only see the growth in size, you can also feel it in the interior, where everything is now more airy in all seats. The appearance of the material has also clearly won, and the look, instrument panel, switches and controls look high-quality and modern. Unfortunately, the new Euro 5 diesel was not yet available for the first trip, we movedthe D-Max with the three-liter diesel known from its predecessor. Since the new 2.5, however, scores significantly better than the previous top engine in terms of both maximum torque and usable speed range, this first impression is already very promising.

With the change from torsion bar to coil springs on the front axle Both driving comfort and driving precision have increased. The new D-Max can be directed more precisely and springs more comfortably, no longer as bumpy as its predecessor. There have also been advances acoustically, the new generation is audibly quieter on the inside, and insulation has been improved. In terms of equipment, Isuzu is back on par with the competition with the 2012 model. A multi-information display in the fittings. LED technology for the rear lights, electric seat adjustment, automatic air conditioning, leather upholstery is now also available at an additional cost. When it comes to luxury, the expensive versions of the new D-Max no longer need to hide.


Isuzu D-Max 2012: the prices

As before, Isuzu will be moving priced at the bottom of the market. In view of the significantly more attractive equipment options, the base prices have risen, but are still below those of the comparable competition. Instead of the previous two equipment lines (Basic and Custom), there will be an extended premium version in the future, which is only available for the double cab. It starts at 24,300 euros for the single cab with basic equipment, the top model, the Isuzu D-Max Double Cab Premium, is available from 33,600 euros ( a detailed price list can be found at the end of our photo show ).

Isuzu continues to deliver the D-Max in three cab versions, and the Single Cab is still available with all-wheel drive. The one-and-a-half cabs, dubbed the 'Space Cab', open in opposite directions and make loading and boarding easier without the annoying B-pillar. Eight new colors are available, the metallic or pearl effect finish costs comparatively little extra: 480 euros. What is new is the ability to order so-called 'Cab & Chassis' versions. Here the Isuzu D-Max comes to the customer without a loading area, who can carry out the corresponding superstructures directly on the cheaper chassis. RV converters will also appreciate this variant.

Sales of the Isuzu D-Max 2012 will start in June.

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