D-Max is Isuzu’s flagship model. The Japanese carmaker is active in the SUV segment, with MU-X, but the truck is still the #1 priority for bosses. The good news for all the fans is that COVID-19 outburst is not slowing down the development of the new generation. The 2021 Isuzu D-Max will be out and the latest reports say two Japanese companies joined forces to improve chances on the market. The D-Max will share the platform with the new Mazda BT-50. Pickups will be available next year and here are the first things we know about them.
Isuzu is offering the platform and Mazda’s design is the best combination. The new truck will be attractive and capable of working. We will see what kind of engines the 2021 Isuzu D-Max will use. Mazda’s SkyActiv technology is an option, but it is more likely that Isuzu will remain focused on diesel power. A hybrid unit is not likely to happen.
2021 Isuzu D-Max Redesign, New Generation
The current version of the D-Max dates from 2012. The company revisited the truck two times, but now it is time for the biggest update ever since. The new generation is also possible. According to the first photos, the fresh look will make the pickup totally different than before. The wider grille is making it more aggressive. The company announced special packages. The off-road bundle will make the D-Max more competitive to the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. The truck might be lifted a bit for the new series.
The company didn’t unveil all the details. We believe the 2021 Isuzu D-Max will feature single and double cab configuration. Also, more bed accessories are going to be included. High-end accessories are adding the most advanced technologies that will help towing and 4×4 drive.
Interior
The 2021 Isuzu D-Max will be wider than before and it will ride on the new platform. The interior is getting a space boost. However, Isuzu is praising the safety. More options are available. Plus, Apple CarPlay becomes standard all across the lineup. The official website offers a virtual drive, and the cabin looks fresh. The off-road packages will include seats which will increase the level of comfort.
2021 Isuzu D-Max New Engine
The base configuration of the 2021 Isuzu D-Max will include the same 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine. The powerplant is good for 161 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. Engineers boosted the same unit to 190 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This will make the D-Max more competitive against its biggest rivals. Well, Isuzu was a synonym for the base and affordable pickup truck without too many options. Now, everything is at another level for the new season. The company is developing this truck for the past five years and the 2021 YM debuts after 3 million miles of testing.
Another possibility is to borrow a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine from the new partner. Also, there are a few other powerplants in the existing model that could be back on the 2021 D-Max. A 2.5-liter diesel was the drivetrain for the European model, while the only petrol unit was available exclusively in Ecuador.
Verdict
The new model will start the new era of Isuzu and D-Max. Well, the Japanese carmaker already started the evolution with the MU-X SUV and now the new truck is ready to contribute to building up the image. The versatility of the new model will be the key factor. The partnership with Mazda will help Isuzu with their design issues since the D-Max struggled to make a breakthrough. Boring styling is replaced with modern and aggressive language. In combination with a more efficient engine, we believe that D-Max is ready to conquer.
Furthermore, the manufacturer might decide to expand the market. On the other hand, the partnership with Mazda will stop them from appearing in too many same places where BT-50 is going to be available. Also, the 2021 Isuzu D-Max won’t go across the ocean. The US market is the most demanding world of the truck industry. Oil-burners are rare there since these units can’t meet emission requirements. But, if Isuzu decides to invest heavily in the development, the profit will be very high.
Check out the official site of the new D-Max HERE