By Khulekani Dumisa

The current D-Max may be on its way out but it is still one of Isuzu’s most important products. It is also still very competitive locally, having pipped the Ranger to the second spot in the bakkie charts In August thus making that month, one of the bakkie’s best ever in 14 years. To keep the momentum going, Isuzu has added more standard features to the leisure models of the range.

Improved D-Max LX and LE

Having launched a 3.0 TD Double Cab X-Rider Automatic recently, Isuzu has repositioned the LX and LE models. These models now have an all-black interior including a black roof liner and black cladding on the pillars. In addition, 4×4 models get a black 4×4 sticker which has been changed from red.

4×2 models now come standard with Tow bar and Sports bar.  Isuzu says, the LE models have been repositioned to make them more attractive to fleet buyers and better positioned against their main rivals.

3.0 litre LX and LE Plus models feature a Brake Override System – activated when both brake and accelerator pedals are pressed together.

Next Generation D-MAX Bakkie

Isuzu has also announced that work is underway on the engineering and testing of the next generation D-MAX bakkie which will be manufactured at Isuzu’s assembly plant in Port Elizabeth.

Some of the key projects being undertaken include testing on the load box which in the current bakkie has significantly thicker steel in strategic areas such as the load box inner panels, load box front panel, and tailgate.

Other areas receiving attention from local engineers include, dust sealing, suspension tuning and development of local dampers, development of all terrain tyres, rear differential lock and axles, wiring harnesses, and accessories such as canopies, roll bars and nudge bars.