Isuzu PH removes LS RZ4E D-Max models from lineup

It seems Isuzu Philippine Corporation's revamping of the D-Max lineup has resulted in the discontinuation of a certain variant.

When IPC first launched the all-new D-Max last year, customers who wanted a mid-range pickup truck can choose between the LS-A and the LS. Buyers could also choose from two engines; the flagship 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX that cranks out 190 PS with 450 Nm of torque, or the smaller 1.9-liter RZ4E that puts out 150 PS plus 350 Nm of torque.

Both engines can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, with the LS RZ4E serving as the “more affordable” model for those who want a pickup truck but not a big 3.0-liter under the hood.

However, IPC has decided to stop offering the LS RZ4E models. We noticed this when we checked their website recently and noticed that all LS RZ4E variants have been removed. This was also the time that we found out that the automaker quietly released the 3.0 LS-A 4x4 M/T and the 3.0 Single Cab 4x4 M/T models.

With the LS RZ4E no longer available, those who are looking to get a mid-range double-cab D-Max complete with all (or several) amenities can now only opt for the LS-A variant. There is the LT 4x2 double cab version, but it's essentially a bare-bones variant meant for fleet customers.

D-Max LT 4x2 M/T double cab with RZ4E engine

So why did IPC decide to ax the LS RZ4E from the D-Max lineup? While the company has yet to make an official statement, our best guess is that it came to sales and pricing. Before its removal, the LS RZ4E 4x2 M/T retailed for PHP 1.219 million while the LS RZ4E 4x2 A/T was available for PHP 1.309 million.

But with the LS-A 4x2 M/T and A/T variants selling for PHP 1.320 million and PHP 1.390 million, respectively, perhaps IPC thought it would be better to simplify the D-Max lineup and remove the LS RZ4E models entirely. Another possible theory is that Isuzu may be upgrading the LS RZ4E and equipping it with more features while still offering a mid-range product.

Until then, for customers who want to get a 1.9-liter RZ4E turbo-diesel D-Max, your only choice is to get the Single Cab 4x2 and the LT 4x2 variants of the pickup truck.