2026 Isuzu D-MAX gets new 2.2-litre engine

Quick look

• The 2026 Isuzu D-MAX gets a new turbodiesel engine with a larger 2.2-litre displacement which also has 5% lower fuel consumption and is Euro-5 fuel compliant.

• An 8-speed automatic transmission is now introduced and is available for the Single Cab as well.

When Isuzu Malaysia introduced the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine for the D-MAX in 2019, it was major innovation as it not only moved away from the traditional large displacements of diesel engines but did so without sacrificing performance. However, the ‘traditionalists’ still believe that there’s ‘no replacement for displacement’ and would prefer, if the option is available, a larger displacement.

New engine replaces 1.9-litre unit
There is a 3-litre option in the flagship X-Terrain version but for the rest of the range, Isuzu Malaysia has focussed on promoting the 1.9-litre unit. Now those who want a larger engine can have it with the new 2.2-litre turbodiesel (RM172 more in roadtax) launched today by Isuzu Malaysia for the 2026 D-MAX.

The new 2.2-litre replaces the 1.9-litre engine across the range, but the flagship X-Terrain will still be available with the 190 ps/450 Nm 3-litre engine. For a short while, Isuzu Malaysia will still offer a 1.9-litre single cab as a low-cost option for those who still want it. However, after customers find that the new engine is much better in all respects and will add only RM172 to annual roadtax, they are likely to prefer it.

Newly developed
Previously, Isuzu put a 2.5-litre engine in the D-MAX but this 2-litre unit (designated RZ4F-TC) is not an evolutionary development and is a newly developed engine. The entire block has greater rigidity and to cater for the larger combustion chamber. The cylinder head has been designed to enhance coolant flow and keep running temperatures at optimum levels for consistent performance.

Apart from the block and head, various internal components including the crankshaft, pistons and connecting rods are all new, aimed at optimizing combustion efficiency, longevity and performance while reducing exhaust emissions.

Mounted closer to the exhaust manifold for quicker response, the turbocharger features a new electronically-controlled Variable Geometry System (e-VGS) that precisely regulates airflow through the vanes. In doing so, the new forced induction system is able to deliver a more responsive driving feel particularly at take-off speeds and acceleration. A new low friction bearing also allows the unit to spool up quicker which is particularly useful in on/off throttle situations as it gives drivers the linear feel of a non-turbocharged engine.

The result is a power increase of 8.7% over the 1.9-litre – 163 ps at 3,600 rpm – with 400 Nm of torque, 14.3% more. Maximum torque is available from 1,600 rpm and even at 1,000 rpm, there’s already 255 Nm generated. Isuzu says that on take-off, there is a 56% improvement in the vehicle’s response.

It’s also Euro-5 compliant which means it runs much cleaner. Significantly, especially at a time like this when diesel prices are going crazy, the new engine is said to be 5% more efficient. This is helped by the new Idle Stop Start feature that shuts the engine off when the vehicle is momentarily stopped while the gear selector is in D. It also means that less polluting exhaust gases are generated although running on Euro-5 fuel already means a massive reduction in pollutants.

8-speed automatic transmission
The new engine is paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. It is also available with the single cab version, making the D-MAX the first single cab truck in Malaysia to have an automatic box.

The gearbox has a programmed shift map programmed to quicken shift times between gears, resulting in less power loss between shifts and providing a more spirited drive. To allow for driver control on or off the road, a sequential shifter is also available.

The Rough Terrain Mode (RTM) that was available in all 4×4 Double Cab variants is now extended to the Single Cabs. This intelligent system makes off-road driving safer, especially for drivers who do not have much experience in challenging and rough terrain.

As the vehicle is driven, the system ‘learns’ the amount of traction available and distributes drive power to the wheels with grip. This allows the driver to cross rough or slippery terrain more confidently, and it only requires activation with the press of a button.

Imported from Thailand
Besides cosmetic updates externally, new colours are available. The Single Cab Automatic is also available from the factory (the D-MAX is imported from Thailand) with a silver finish, a change from the usual standard white colour which has been offered.

Inside the 2026 Isuzu D-MAX, new leather patterns can be seen on the seats of the X-Terrain and Premium versions, while new grey stitch fabric seat designs are used in the Auto Plus and Standard versions.

There is also a new 10-inch infotainment display for the X-Terrain, Premium and Auto Plus with a high-resolution screen and quicker processor on board for smoother operation. It includes an inclinometer function and a 2.1A USB Type-C port.

Tailgate Assist has been available on the X-Terrain, Premium and Auto Plus and now is also standard across the Double Cab range. This feature uses a torsion bar in the tailgate hinge to help when raising the tailgate which is very heavy. It works so well that it feels no different from raising a bootlid of a sedan.

Adding value to the purchase of a new D-MAX is a complimentary scheduled maintenance service package for the first 2 years (maximum 20,000 kms) of ownership. This would mean no servicing costs for the first 3 visits at any authorised Isuzu service centre in Malaysia.

6 versions with new engine
As before, Isuzu Malaysia offers many choices and the 6 versions with the new engine have prices ranging from RM141,821.20 (without insurance, Peninsular Malaysia) to RM103,121.20). The 3-litre engine is available in X-Terrain, Double Cab Premium and Single Cab (only with manual transmission) versions and priced between RM109,888.40 to RM162,938.40.

Visit the Isuzu website to know more about the new D-MAX

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Another successful year for Isuzu Malaysia