New 2015 Isuzu Dmax2014 2015 Isuzu Dmax is a combination of American ingenuity and Japanese engineering genius. Like all previous models, 2012 Isuzu Dmax shares its ladder chassis platform, body construction, mechanical components and interior design (dash, centre stack, steering wheel and doors) with the upcoming 2013 North American Chevrolet Colorado.
Dmax uses Isuzu's own engine and drivetrain. Isuzu's iTEQ engine has been retained but has been tuned up. Engines performance have been upgraded with Variable geometry turbocharger (VGS Turbo) and Isuzu Dmax's engines pass Euro V emission standard. 2012 Dmax still comes with 5-speed manual but has unvelied new 5-speed "Rev-Tronic" automatic transmission with sport mode (2011 model had 4 speed automatic transmission). 4x4 models have been renamed from "Rodeo" to "V-Cross", and transfer case has been renamed from "Touch-on-the-fly" button to new "Terrain command" system that uses spin system to allow for seamless changing of drive modes from 4-Whell to 3-Wheel Drive mode. Isuzu front suspension made up of independent double wishbone with coil-spring setup and a rear suspension made up of over slung leaf-springs installed above a special long span rear axle make for a comfortable driving experience.
The D-Max gets more storage spaces. Isuzu Entertainment System includes eight speaker comprising two large 6 x 9 inch front speakers and a roof-mounted Exciter speaker sound system replete with surround sound in the newly designed dash along with 'iGENIE' navigation system which include support for real-time traffic reports, and is equipped with standard Bluetooth and portable music player connectivity. It also comes with comfortable Flex-Ride suspension system; 2-DIN audio-video head unit with navigation-ready system; projector-type headlamps that provide 14% more illumination than their ordinary counterparts; side-impact steel beams; and rear camera and sensor.
Isuzu has combined ultra-aerodynamic technology normally utilized by Japanese bullet trains with state-of-the-art aerospace technology called Isuzu Insight.
Available in 4 models line-up, 3 body type, 3 drivetrain ; 2WD, High-ride 4x2 (Hi-Lander) or 4x4 (V-Cross) in Single cab (Spark), Space Cab and Crew Cab (Cab4) [Spark available only in 4x2 drivetrain]
Isuzu claims that its new "i-Grip" platform accommodates a body that's 42% stiffer than before to help improve handling and ride.
But the design details of the D-Max and Colorado are obviously different like the front/rear lights and grille and bumper up front.
Exterior & interior highlights
Modern and sleek exterior lines compliment the new bulkier and aggressive on-road stance. The larger exterior dimensions afford a considerable increase in interior space raising occupant comfort levels and improving the rear seat access in crew and space cab models.
nside, the two also share the same basic fascia and other interior panels. But the D-Max gets differently styled panel dials and an instrument cluster on the centre console housing functions for the audio and air-con.
Note the "dual-cockpit" design of the fascia which draws inspiration from Chevrolet's cars like the Cruze C-segment saloon.
A stylish and contemporary dash compliments the interior design. Functional upgrades include increased stowage areas. A new audio system features portable music player connectivity and Bluetooth.
Focus on safety
With a growing importance on occupant safety, the new D-MAX has focused in this area as a largest priority.
New side airbags that deploy from the side bolster of the front bucket seats protect the driver and passenger thorax region from side impact forces. Also featured are side curtain airbags to further protect occupants in these situations. A front driver and passenger system complete the array of airbags offered as standard.
Isuzu is highligthing safety and convenience features. For example, the D-Max now boasts a high level of active safety like anti-lock brakes, brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability system. The luxurious gimmick is an 8-speaker audio with surround sound.
As with most other pick-up brands, Isuzu sees a growing demand for the high-riding 2WD with automatic gearbox, due to its fashionable elevated body that also has a functional role in battling the notorious flooding conditions in the country. The 4WD double-cab variant is still being offered on largest of the range.
Toyota Hilux Vigo and Mitsubishi L200 Triton already come equipped with Variable Geometric Turbo VGT for optimal performance and maximum fuel-efficiency. Isuzu has finally caught up with the two giants and the 2012 Isuzu D-Max now comes equipped with VGT / Variable Geometric Turbo.
Chassis Development
A newly developed ladder frame chassis in the D-MAX builds on the engineering successes of the class leading platform. It features a stiffer design with improved cross bracing at the rear, further improving stability while both loaded and while towing. It also ensures long term durability when used regularly in harsh environments.
“i-GRIP PLATFORM” (ISUZU GRAVITY RESPONSE INTELLIGENT PLATFORM) achieves excellent vehicle stability because of an extended wheelbase, wheel tracks and optimal engine installation just behind the front wheels which allows for optimal weight distribution location. Improved strength and rigidity with a larger chassis when compared to pickups of the same class which is proven by the fact that is stronger by 42%. All-new suspension setup with independent double wish-bone with coil springs up front while the rear suspension consists of long span leaf-springs resulting in excellent road grip and vehicle stability under every road condition with or without loading the vehicle, and of course a smooth and comfortable ride at every speed level…reach for the future of motoring that the world has been waiting for, a new level of driving experience unique only to Isuzu.
Electronic Stability Control is also now fitted as standard.
The new Emergency Brake Assist and Anti-lock Brake System are designed to detect an emergency braking situation during hard application of the brakes. These systems work in unison to slow the vehicle without locking up the wheels and aiding stability. Electronic Brake Distribution further assists by detecting the payload weight and modulating the rear breaking force to compensate.
Chevy Colorado and Isuzu Max now have different engines. The 2012 Isuzu D-Max uses carried-over diesel-turbo engines albeit tweaked to Euro 5 emission standards with higher outputs and new-generation common-rail fuel-injection including the 116hp/280Nm 2.5 and VGS versions of the 136hp/320Nm 2.5 and 177hp/380Nm 3.0. One of the biggest asset of this engine is the introduction of the "Isuzu Insight" which will detect and analyze the vehicle behavior and driver's driving habit, to be more safer and more fuel efficient.
While a five-speed manual is still on offer for traditionalists, the automatic transmission now comes with five-forward ratios to match the Mitsubishi Triton and Nissan Navara. Isuzu's arch-rival, the Toyota Hilux Vigo Champ, still sticks with four gears in the automatic version.
For the 2012 Chevrolet Chevy Colorado, there will be a 2.5-litre diesel-turbo called Duramax and a bigger 2.8-litre variant for those needing more power and torque.
Power and torque have both been improved through the technological refinement of Isuzu’s well renowned 3.0L diesel power-plant. The upgraded inline 4-cylinder diesel delivers a peak torque output of 380Nm and peak power output of 130kW. The torque is delivered across a flat curve through a large majority of the rev-range to aid drivability and make ease of towing.
As expected from an Isuzu diesel, it delivers outstanding fuel economy even with the increased power and torque outputs.
An all new automatic transmission offers a refined shift map through 5 speeds. This joins the 5-speed manual in the range.