Isuzu pick-up trucks have always had a special appeal because they serve owners in so many ways. Sabah users in particular know that the Isuzu D-MAX has proven to be an exceptional choice because it is confidently able to carry large loads, has the ability to go just about anywhere with ease and always remains durable and safe. Its record-breaking fuel efficiency also allows the vehicles to easily and safely get to any destination around the state before requiring a fuel top up.
Today, the new 2026 Isuzu D-MAX range featuring the new 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine raises the bar for pick-up trucks even higher as it offers enhanced driveability, better load handling, exceptional starting performance and superior fuel economy.
Producing 8.7 percent more power over the 1.9-litre engine at 163PS at 3,600rpm, the all-new 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine also improves torque output by 14.3 percent, producing 400Nm between 1,600rpm to 2,400rpm. Significantly, 255Nm of torque is produced from 1,000rpm; more than half of the maximum torque available, giving the new model very confident and quick acceleration almost from start-off, ideal to tackle the steep and rugged areas of Sabah.
New also is the 8-speed automatic gearbox with sequential shift. This gearbox is also available in the Single Cab model, making the Isuzu D-MAX Single Cab the first in Malaysia to offer an automatic gearbox. With this new gearbox, it is not only significantly easier and more relaxing to drive, the truck remains more robust with less wear and tear from mishandling.
Speaking during a media drive experience from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia Kenichi Kudo explained that the improved performance of the new 2.2-litre engine raises the profile and driving pleasure of the Isuzu D-MAX without sacrificing economy or durability.
“Almost every component in the new 2.2-litre Isuzu engine has been redesigned or engineered to provide exceptional performance, superior fuel economy and legendary reliability. Its driving dynamics have been improved to make it exceptionally suitable for the rugged and challenging conditions here in Sabah,” he said.
The flagship of the Isuzu D-MAX range will continue to be the X-Terrain powere exclusively by the famed 3.0L engine while the 2.2L engine comes in from the highly-popular Premium 4×4 variant. This will be followed by the 4×2 Auto Plus and the best-selling variant of the range, the Standard 4×4 model. Together with the Single Cab, Isuzu Malaysia offers the largest selection of pick-up trucks in the country with nine variants to choose from.
The entire Isuzu D-MAX 4×4 range also now features the Rough Terrain Mode, Isuzu’s off-road traction control system that makes dirt driving as simple and safe as a press of a button.
Scoring another first in Malaysia, the entire 2.2-litre D-MAX range complies with Euro 5 exhaust emission standards making it one of the cleanest pick-up trucks in the market.
Apart from the engines, the new 2026 Isuzu D-MAX also receives a number of updates including new light clusters, grille, rims and side steps. Noticeably, the new models feature two additional colours namely Inishmore Green Metallic and Obsidian Gray Mica available in selected variants. The Single Cab 2.2L is also available with the option of Mercury Silver. The automatic variants enjoy body-coloured bumpers for a more contemporary outlook.
In addition, the 2026 Isuzu D-MAX range further receives useful upgrades including a new 10” infotainment system for the X-Terrain, Premium and 4×2 Auto Plus models. The Standard variant receives a new 7” head unit and now comes with Tailgate Assist as standard.
All 2026 Isuzu D-MAX 2.2L and 3.0L variants come with a 20,000km/2-year free periodic maintenance package and enjoy a 150,000km or 5-year warranty except for the flagship X-Terrain that enjoys a class-leading 7-year unlimited mileage warranty.
The new Isuzu D-MAX 2.2L Single Cab Automatic is priced at RM111,204.60 in Sabah and RM111,267.60 in Sarawak (Individual On The Road without insurance) while the Isuzu D-MAX 2.2L Premium 4×4 is priced at RM144,804.60 in Sabah and RM144,867.60 in Sarawak (Individual On The Road without insurance).
