The Isuzu D-Max is set to receive a new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine with mild-hybrid assistance, according to a report out of Thailand. Here’s what we know so far…
The Isuzu D-Max is currently available with either a 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine or a likewise oil-burning 3.0-litre motor. But a fresh report out of Thailand suggests the Japanese automaker is gearing up to offer the bakkie with a new powerplant, complete with mild-hybrid assistance.
According to Headlight magazine (in a report first brought to our attention via a Citizen Motoring story), the new engine will displace 2.2 litres and boast 48V technology. Like the Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V already detailed for Europe (and set to launch in South Africa at some point during 2024), the mildly electrified D-Max will likely employ a belt-driven generator to charge a small battery pack.
The Thailand-based publication’s report includes no information on the positioning of the battery pack nor its capacity. Moreover, it’s not clear exactly how much extra oomph such a system would add to the new 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine’s peak outputs (which are likewise unknown).
Still, judging by the performance of similar systems, Isuzu’s mild-hybrid arrangement should bring some fuel-consumption improvements along with better throttle response, enhanced acceleration and quieter start-up.
Headlight magazine claims the new 2.2-litre mild-hybrid engine could be rolled out as early as 2025, though it’s worth keeping in mind Thailand’s RG-generation D-Max product cycle is well ahead of South Africa’s, with our Struandale-built version having launched only in April 2022 (as opposed to late 2019 in Thailand).
Indeed, a facelifted D-Max was revealed for that country in October 2023, with no indication of when such a refreshed model will come online in Mzansi (with our market instead focusing on the new X-Rider for now). Interestingly, in September 2023, Isuzu’s global division also seemingly confirmed it plans to launch an electric bakkie – which may well wear the E-Max badge – in 2025.
As a reminder, the current model’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine generates 140 kW and 450 Nm, while the 1.9-litre unit offers 110 kW and 350 Nm. Transmission options on both engines comprise a 6-speed manual gearbox or an automatic with the same number of cogs.
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