New turbodiesel engine boosts Isuzu D-MAX sales

Isuzu Malaysia recorded a noticeable growth in the local pick-up segment during the second quarter of 2026. The brand’s market share grew by 3 percentage points compared to the previous quarter, accounting for a 17.3% stake in the segment.

The growth is partly attributed to the updated 2026 D-MAX range introduced in April. Central to the refreshed line-up is a new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine that replaces the 1.9-litre powerplant. Euro5-compliant, the new engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission which enhances throttle response, power delivery, and fuel economy.

According to Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia’s Light Commercial Vehicle Division Kenichi Kudo, the new engine adds a fresh dimension to the driving pleasure and capability of the new Isuzu D-MAX.

“The new range of Isuzu D-MAX with its new 2.2-litre engine and 8-speed automatic transmission have performed exceptionally well since its launch in April this year. The new powerhouse achieves improved heights in every aspect ranging from fuel efficiency, power, quietness and emission. That’s why we don’t hesitate to call it our ‘Best Engine Ever’,” said Mr. Kudo.

Latest sales data shows the 2.2-litre Standard 4×4 Automatic has emerged as the volume driver for the brand, accounting for 36% of overall D-MAX sales.

Meanwhile, the newly added 2.2-litre Single Cab Automatic — Malaysia’s first single-cab pick-up with an automatic transmission — has quickly captured 60% of Isuzu’s total single-cab volume. Clearly, the convenience of auto-shifting is appreciated by operators.

Current D-MAX range
The D-MAX has been available in the Malaysian market for over 20 years and the range has constantly evolved, not only through generations but also in terms of variants to suit different customer needs.

Today’s range has 9 variants, all imported from Thailand, catering to commercial and personal buyer segments. Two powertrains are available: the new 2.2-litre unit and the higher-capacity 3.0-litre engine.

The range begins with the commercial-focused Single Cab variants, available in 2.2-litre manual and automatic options as well as a 3.0-litre manual.

Moving up to the double-cab bodystyle, options include the Standard 2.2-litre (manual and automatic), the 2-wheel drive Auto Plus 2.2-litre automatic, and the feature-packed Premium variants available in both 2.2-litre and 3.0-litre 4×4 configurations.

Sitting at the top of the hierarchy is the flagship X-Terrain 3.0L 4×4 Automatic which is a popular choice for those who don’t want a SUV or passenger sedan as personal transport.

Pricing for the D-MAX in Peninsular Malaysia starts from RM103,121 for the entry-level Single Cab 2.2L 4×4 Manual and tops out at RM162,938 for the range-topping X-Terrain 3.0L 4×4 Automatic (on-the-road prices without insurance).

Another successful year for Isuzu Malaysia