Johannesburg – Isuzu has given its updated D-Max bakkie a meaningful mechanical refresh, with the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine receiving a range of upgrades that make it a more competitive option in the hard-fought mid-size bakkie segment.
The changes have been unpacked on the latest episode of The Citizen Motoring’s Pitstop podcast, which takes a closer look at what is new on the facelifted D-Max and what the updated 1.9-litre mill brings to the table.
While the Japanese manufacturer offers a 2.2-litre turbodiesel in other global markets, the Southern African market version of the D-Max retains its 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre turbodiesel engines. The bigger 3.0-litre DDI unit continues to produce 140kW and 450Nm of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox, and once held the record as the fastest four-cylinder bakkie engine in the segment. 
It is the 1.9-litre unit, however, that has received the most attention. Power and torque outputs remain unchanged at 110kW and 350Nm respectively, but the engine now features a larger and newer turbocharger alongside an upgraded Engine Control Unit. Fuel pressure has been boosted, the combustion chamber redesigned, and the point at which maximum torque is delivered has been reduced by 300rpm to arrive at 1 500rpm. Throttle response has also been improved, and the ratios for the six-speed automatic gearbox have been revised.
The upgrades put the 1.9-litre D-Max on a direct collision course with the Ford Ranger’s 2.0-litre single turbodiesel, which produces 125kW and 405Nm. Ford’s single turbo unit has built a strong reputation for performance and fuel efficiency, and has recently been introduced on the current generation Ford Everest for the first time.
Notably, Toyota’s segment favourite, the Hilux, will no longer compete in this power bracket. The 110kW 2.4-litre GD-6 diesel engine producing 400Nm has been dropped from the revised Hilux lineup, leaving the segment more open for Isuzu and Ford to contest.
Emaswati keen to experience the updated D-Max for themselves can contact Mbabane Motors, the flagship Isuzu dealership in the Kingdom of Eswatini, to arrange a test drive.
