Isuzu teases new D-Max ute

Tuesday, 8 October 2019

Isuzu has teased the next D-Max ute in a brief video. We slow it down and take a closer look.

Isuzu recently revealed a short preview of its next-generation D-Max ute, which is likely to be in New Zealand sometime in 2020.

The video teaser posted on Isuzu's Thailand website is accompanied by a countdown which will expire on October 12 NZ time when get a full look at the new D-Max at a live launch event.

All-new and developed in a joint-venture with Mazda, the next D-max is likely to pack the latest safety and technology features, something Mazda would have required for its next-gen BT-50.

The new D-Max will retain its current look. The Mazda-based equivalent will likely get a totally different exterior.

The new-generation Isuzu D-Max is also expected to be even more capable off-road than the current model, with the video showing a glimpse of a rear diff-lock button. Again, this is something likely driven by Mazda as, while the current D-Max doesn't have a locking rear diff, the BT-50 does.

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Tucked down to the right of the gear selector is a sneaky little rear locking diff button, something the current D-Max doesn't have.

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Isuzu has not confirmed what engine the D-Max will pack, but given that the current 3.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder had a major overhaul in 2017 it is likely to soldier on in the new model.

However, there is considerable speculation that Isuzu's twin-turbo 1.9-litre Isuzu diesel available in other countries could be added to the D-Max range as an option on certain models, much like Ford has done with its 2.0-litre biturbo diesel engine in the Ranger.

The next Mazda BT-50 is likely to follow about 12 months behind the Isuzu D-Max.

The current Mazda BT-50 is, of course, based on the Australian-developed Ford Ranger and is built in the same factory in Thailand. Three years ago Mazda announced it was ending its 30-year partnership with Ford and that it would switch to a joint venture with Isuzu for the next BT-50 ute.

Although Isuzu is building the vehicle for Mazda, it will apparently have a unique appearance and won't simply be a new badge or grille.