After mu-X, Isuzu PH to launch updated 2023 D-Max LS-E

A few weeks ago, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) revealed the updated 2023 Isuzu mu-X LS-E. Not only did the 7-seater midsize SUV receive a fresh new coat of paint, but it also received a restyled grille, more stylish alloy wheels, and a smart power tailgate.

It will officially make its public debut in the country next month but IPC has already revealed all the changes and pricing of the updated mu-X (including the lesser variants). However, we were left wondering if the D-Max will also receive its own refresh sooner than later.

Fortunately, we can confirm that the restyled D-Max is also set to make its Philippine debut soon. During a dealership event in Cagayan De Oro, the automaker shared that the refreshed D-Max will be unveiled to the public alongside the recently revealed 2023 mu-X LS-E on April 21, 2023. And just like the SUV, the updates to the pick-up truck will only be seen in the top-spec LS-E variant.

Official details and specs regarding the 2023 D-Max refresh are not yet available at this time. However, we need not look far as Thailand has already had it for quite some time now. First revealed in The Land of Smiles as a 2022 model year, the updated pick-up truck sports several exterior and interior changes.

For starters, it gets a new “Double Dimension” grille that’s painted in a unique two-tone black & gray hue which gives it a sportier look. There’s also a new two-tone finished front bumper guard that’s painted in the same colorway as the grille. Also replaced are the “turbofan” style rims as the D-Max in Thailand now comes with a sportier set of 18-inch alloy wheels painted matte black that offers a more aggressive look.

While nothing has been confirmed yet, we’re hoping IPC brings a new shade of color to the local D-Max lineup. Whereas the mu-X LS-E received the new Norwegian Blue hue, we’re keeping our fingers crossed Isuzu actually brings the Islay Gray Opaque color for their popular pick-up truck.

Moving inside and the changes to the cabin are far more subtle compared to exterior revisions. There’s a new two-tone black and brown leather upholstery for the steering wheel, leather seats, dashboard accents, as well as door card trim pieces. For added comfort, the front seats get the new CoolMax feature which serves as the pick-up’s ventilated seat function. We’ll be keeping our hopes up Isuzu actually brings these to the local market as well.

Under the hood, we can expect the top-of-the-line D-Max LS-E to be powered by the familiar 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX turbo-diesel that churns out 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque. Power will then be sent to a 6-speed automatic transmission and will be available in either 4x2 or 4x4 guises. Hopefully, IPC makes the rear-locking differential a standard feature since many customers have been wanting to get one for their D-Max.

With the official reveal set to happen in the middle of April, we’re sure to keep you updated if there are new developments or details regarding the 2023 D-Max LS-E bound for the Philippines.