New models, upgrades coming for Isuzu D-Max
A year after the new generation D-Max was released, Isuzu Ute Australia are planning to boost the ute’s lineup, with upgrades and extra equipment on selected model grades, a new engine option, new grade variants and an all-new model grade coming for 2022.
What is set to be the broadest D-Max offering yet follows extensive customer and media feedback over the past year and is set for Australian release in Q1, 2022.
"Preliminary specifications of the 2022 D-Max range are incredibly exciting; with a new engine, new models and updates fast-tracked to meet Australian customer demand. It's the feedback from our customers that have been the driving force in introducing these updates and we are proud to expand on the proven D-Max recipe that has solidified its place in many Australian driveways," said Isuzu Ute Australia Managing Director, Hiroyasu Sato.
New Additions
While the familiar model grades of SX, LS-M, LS-U and X-Terrain remain, new variants will be added within those grades and some will be removed.
The entry-level SX grade will add a Space Cab Chassis 4x2 auto variant, powered by the existing 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder engine and fitted with a 2100mm alloy or steel tray.
On the SX Single Cab Chassis 4x2, this variant will now be available with Isuzu’s RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre turbo diesel four, paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
Offered locally for the first time, the RZ4E-TC diesel produces 110kW and 350Nm, with Isuzu Ute Australia stating it delivers supreme fuel efficiency, as well as refined and quieter operation. Braked towing capacity on the SX Single Cab Chassis 4x2 with this engine drops to 2,800kg for the manual and 3,000kg for the auto, with 750kg unbraked towing for both.
The mid-level LS-M and upper LS-U grades will be available as a Crew Cab Chassis 4x4 for 2022. Both will be powered by the 3.0 turbo diesel as standard, matched to a six-speed auto. A rear diff lock and Isuzu’s 4x4 Terrain Command system will be standard on both these variants, as will an 1800mm tray in alloy or steel.
The final new addition is an LS-U+ Crew Cab 4x4 auto ute. Sitting between the LS-U and premium X-Terrain, the LS-U+ ute adds extra luxury and convenience features over the LS-U grade, including an 8-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats and leather accented interior.
Dropped from the 2022 D-Max range are the SX Space Cab 4x2 auto and SX Crew Cab 4x4 manual.
MY22 Upgrades
On the existing D-Max lineup, upgrades for 2022 include the addition of standard rear parking sensors on the LS-M Crew Cab 4x4 ute.
The LS-U crew cab ute and space cab ute will add a factory-fitted tow bar receiver and tub liner, smart keyless entry, push button starting, walk-away automatic door locking and heated exterior mirrors. Inside, these two grades add an auto-dimming rear view mirror and vanity mirror light.
The same equipment, excluding the tub liner, will also feature on the MY22 LS-U Crew Cab Chassis 4x4.
Similar upgrades have been made to the X-Terrain Crew Cab 4x4, with the MY22 version of this range-topping grade receiving black and red interior accents, variable heated front seats, a vanity mirror light, auto-dimming rear view mirror, heated door mirrors and a factory-fitted tow bar.
For 2022, a total of eight paint options will be offered, including Marble White pearl and Magnetic Red mica that are limited to the LS-U and X-Terrain, while Volcano Amber metallic remains an X-Terrain exclusive.
2021 to 2022 - Maybe
Even without the additional equipment on selected grades, D-Max pricing for 2022 has increased by around $1,500 to $2,500, while the X-Terrain has jumped $4,000.
For customers who ordered any MY21 D-Max model grade before 31 July, 2021, and are waiting for delivery times that are stretching into 2022 at time of writing, Isuzu Ute Australia say those purchases will not be subject to the MY22 price rises. Furthermore, unfulfilled MY21 D-Max orders may be upgraded to MY22 spec for no extra charge, but this will be at Isuzu’s discretion.
The full 2022 Isuzu D-Max range is due for Australian release in Q1, 2022. See your Isuzu Ute Australia dealer for further details.
2022 Isuzu D-Max ute price range*
Drive Body Grade Engine Trans RRP (Incl. GST)
4x2 Single Cab Chassis SX 1.9L MT $31,200
4x2 Single Cab Chassis SX 1.9L AT $33,200
4x2 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L MT $33,200
4x2 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L AT $35,200
4x2 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L AT $38,700
4x2 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L AT $41,700
4x2 Crew Ute SX 3.0L AT $42,900
4x2 Crew Ute LS-U 3.0L AT $51,400
4x4 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L MT $41,200
4x4 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L AT $43,200
4x4 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L MT $44,700
4x4 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L AT $46,700
4x4 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L MT $47,700
4x4 Single Cab Chassis SX 3.0L AT $49,700
4x4 Crew Cab Chassis LS-M 3.0L AT $52,800
4x4 Crew Cab Chassis LS-U 3.0L AT $58,200
4x4 Crew Ute SX 3.0L AT $50,900
4x4 Crew Ute LS-M 3.0L MT $52,000
4x4 Crew Ute LS-M 3.0L AT $54,000
4x4 Space Ute LS-U 3.0L AT $56,400
4x4 Crew Ute LS-U 3.0L MT $57,400
4x4 Crew Ute LS-U 3.0L AT $59,400
4x4 Crew Ute LS-U+ 3.0L AT $61,900
4x4 Crew Ute XTerrain 3.0L AT $65,900
*manufacturer’s list pricing, excludes ORCs.