Why Is The 2026 Isuzu D-Max 2.2L The Best Value Pickup Truck Today
This is the 2026 Isuzu D-Max 2.2L and it is going to be a popular pickup truck due to its new, more powerful 2.2L RZ4F-TC turbodiesel engine, which delivers 163PS and 400Nm of torque whilst being paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission which means it will offer class best fuel efficiency and lower ownership costs.
Yes, right now many Malaysian diesel owners are complaining about the rising costs of diesel at the fuel stations (Gulf War issues) and there are a number of diesel pickups truck, SUV and even passenger car owners trying to sell their vehicles in the used car market.
Prices are not encouraging and most of these diesel vehicle owners are not using their vehicles as work horses and instead they love the torque delivery and also they enjoyed the years of low ownership costs when diesel was heavily subsidised by the Malaysian government.
Now, with subsidies removed, the real cost of diesel is being felt and this is why a 2.2L D-Max makes for a better choice. You still get all the cabin creature comforts and safety features (ADAS features included, such as Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning), plus you have this world class efficiency.
Let us explain. This Isuzu 2.2L D-Max is considered a class-leader as it offers 8.7% more power and 14.3% more torque than the previous 1.9L unit, with strong low-end response (255 Nm at just 1,000 RPM). It also boasts a 10.7% reduction in extra-urban fuel consumption, which means plumbers, gardeners, electricians, work crews and contractors will benefit from its ownership.
Durian farmers are already millionaires, so lets leave them out, instead small farmers and plantation owners who will need a fleet of pickup trucks …… especially the single cab version, should be looking here for the fleet replacement.
Now, urban cowboys, city commuters who love the large and ‘garang’ look of pickup trucks, should come into a Isuzu showroom and take a test drive …… with the family …… to get a better understanding of its cabin comfort.
Climb into the drivers seat, which is powered and well bolstered, you get a SUV like feel and view ahead. Rear passengers get a comfortable back seat with headrests. Legroom is decent in the rear unless you are a basketball player or a sumo wrestler.
Ignite the engine and the diesel clatter is low, its almost like a petrol engine. The dashboard sits low and offers great view out. The 6-speaker audio system is good and you have a well defined 10-inch touchscreen that has wireless Apple CarPlay and also Android Auto ready.
Driving in city traffic will have you feeling you are in a SUV as its steering feel and handling is not harsh. The suspension system is tuned well, its turning radius is good at 6.25m and turning circle is about 12.5m curb to curb.
In case you were wondering, Isuzu has provided Type-C USB charging ports and a wireless smartphone charger so your family can have their devise charged and in use during family inter state drives.
So, to sum up. The new 8-speed automatic provides smoother shifting, better acceleration, and improved refinement for both work and daily driving. The engine is engineered for better combustion efficiency and lower maintenance requirements, offering one of the lowest operating costs and diesel consumption in its class.
The updated range includes Euro 5 compliance and advanced safety features, making it a reliable and versatile choice for both cargo hauling and personal use.
Isuzu D-Max 2.2L Premium Specifications
Engine: 16-valve DOHC 4-Cylinder CRDi
Capacity: 2,164cc
Transmission: 8-speed auto
Max Power: 161hp @ 3,600rpm
Max Torque: 400Nm @ 1,600-2,400rpm
Price: RM141,821.20
