D-MAX base, business models get new Isuzu 1.9L RZ4E engines

For quite some time now, Isuzu has been putting their all-new, cleaner, and compact RZ4-E on the spotlight. As is it, it's seeing duty in the entry-level mu-X and the 4x2 versions of the double-cab D-Max. Now, even the utilitarian single-cab D-Max gets the new engine as well.

That means the long-running 2.5-liter diesel has been put out to pasture for good. Now under the hood of the single-cab D-Max is a 1.9-liter, Blue Power turbodiesel which puts out even more power than the old 2.5-liter. Even though it's as basic as it can be, Isuzu Philippines did not detune the engine. The result is 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque, the same figures found in the posher variants of the pickup.

A fuel tank size of 76 liters helps the single-cab D-Max obtain a longer range on a single tank. With that, it should be a promising choice for fleets who want to maximize their fuel savings. A six-speed manual is the lone transmission choice for the basic D-Max.

The single-cab D-Max is offered as a cab and chassis from the start although customers can order different body applications for the rear. A long bed can be specified, which can load longer, heavier loads than the double-cab variants. For those who need to carry three more passengers, the base model D-Max can be had in four-door, double-cab versions with a shorter bed.

There's also the Flexiqube option courtesy of Almazora. The square body can sit up to 12 occupants, plus another three in front, bringing total capacity to 15. Given that the new 1.9 Blue Power turbodiesels are now in the utility-focused D-Max, you can expect these engine to reach the plusher LS-A variants soon.

Prices for the 1.9-liter Blue Power Isuzu D-Max are as follows:

2018 Isuzu D-Max Single Cab and Chassis: PhP 840,000

2018 Isuzu D-Max PV Flexiqube: PhP 1,004,000

2018 Isuzu D-Max LT 4x2: PhP 1,000,000

2018 Isuzu D-Max LT 4x4: PhP 1,332,000