KLIMS 2018: Isuzu Previews New Powerplant, Unveils Kitted-Up D-Max and MU-X

Visitors to the Isuzu stand at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow (2018 KLIMS) will get a chance to check out the company’s latest and most efficient powerplant, as well as ruggedly modified versions of their D-Max pickup truck and MU-X seven-seater SUV.

The result of four years of extensive research, the (RZ4E-TC) 1.9-litre Ddi BluePower turbodiesel engine includes a number of technological enhancements over its predecessors – namely a clothoid curve combustion chamber, 200 MPa common rail injectors, a variable geometry turbocharger, and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.

The 1.9-litre BluePower engine develops 150 hp and 350 Nm of torque from 1,800 – 2,600 rpm. At the same time, its 60 kg or 20% lighter than the larger 2.5L Ddi VGS Turbo engine that it replaces. The BluePower powerplant has already been introduced in Thailand but as of yet, there is no confirmation that the engine will be introduced locally.

Isuzu also unveiled a modified off-road version of its MU-X SUV, inspired by the company’s long-standing experience and participation in the annual Borneo Safari expedition.

The fully off-road capable MU-X is equipped with various add-ons such as a winch, roof tray, mud tyres, and steel bumpers. The ride height has also been increased by three inches for better ground clearance and entry/departure angles. A full leather interior provides contrast to the rugged exterior – which has been finished with a matt-silver base and black and yellow decal highlights.

The D-Max truck, on the other hand, has been upgraded to deliver an urban rugged look. The exterior is wrapped in a striking matte red, with highlight decals in electric blue. Other modifications include steel bumpers, larger multi-spoke alloy wheels, and a roll bar. On the inside, certain trim elements of the interior have been finished in electric blue; the theme is also carried onto the seat inlays.

Additionally, Isuzu also introduced two genuine accessories packages – Titanium and Robust – for new and existing owners to further personalise their D-Max pickups.

Like the name suggests, Titanium boasts a more premium outlook for the vehicle. It consists of chrome headlamp garnishes, rear lamp guards, door handle covers and garnishes, a tailgate cover and garnishes, rocker plates, and door visors.

The Robust package is meant to project a rough-and-tough look. It comes with matte black headlamp garnishes, rear lamp guards, door handle covers and garnishes, a tailgate cover and garnishes, door visors, and an engine hood protector.

Customers may also opt to add on a matte black front bumper guard. The bumper guard covers the entire front side of the vehicle, which is complemented by a matte black over fenders which give the car a wider visual impression.

Both the Titanium and Robust package retail for RM 1,180. The additional front bumper guard and over fenders are priced at RM 1,390 and RM 1,090 respectively.