MORE than just being a workhorse or a vehicle that’s built to take on urban streets, the all-new Isuzu D-MAX LS 4×4 is also capable of serving as an active lifestyle companion that delivers maximum fun over any terrain.
On February 27 to March 1, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) showcased the pickup model’s off-road driving performance and leisurely traits through an event where the D-MAX LS 4×4 challenged the terrain of the world-famous Paoay sand dunes in Ilocos Norte. The vehicle, which carries Isuzu’s reputed strengths of durability, reliability and fuel-efficiency, adds the promise of go-anywhere adventure because of its tried and tested 4×4 system.
IPC President Nobuo Izumina (middle) with the All-New D-MAX 4×4 at the soft terrain of the beach at Bangui Windmills, which contains small pebbles and not-so-fine sand. Also present were IPC EVP Takashi Tomita (right) and SVP for Sales Arthur Balmadrid.
Over the soft surface of the sand dunes, the D-MAX LS 4×4 provided excellent stability and traction over the numerous obstacles at Paoay Sand Dunes—naturally designed in demonstrating the pickup’s advanced electronically controlled 4×4 system. In 4×4 High and 4×4 Low modes, which can be engaged via a knob conveniently located on the vehicle’s center console, the D-MAX LS 4×4 tackled terrain and overcame conditions which are far worse than anything that can be found or experienced in normal driving situations.
Apart from off-roading capabilities, the comfort of the latest D-MAX LS 4×4 was also demonstrated on the winding roads of Ilocos Norte as event participants visited historical attractions like the Marcos Museum, the Malacanang of the North, and the Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The vehicle’s spacious cabin, leather seats finished in mahogany shade, six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, backseat center armrest, 15 storage compartments and 10 cupholders, and premium 2-DIN CD/MP3/Micro USB/Aux Input/Jack/Tuner with Bluetooth connectivity audio system with six-way speakers and a first-in-class ceiling-mounted exciter speaker, were all welcome treats on and off the road.
After spending an enjoyable evening at the Playa Tropical Resort Hotel in Currimao, the D-MAX LS 4×4’s best-of-both-worlds combination of toughness and luxury was further established on the roads that link the Bangui Windmills, Pannzian Beach Resort in Pagudpud, and the rock formations at Barangay Kapurpurawan.
“The D-MAX has always been known for strengths that not only make it a workhorse but also as a vehicle that can provide owners maximum enjoyment,” IPC President Nobuo Izumina said. “In the all-new D-MAX 4×4, these traits are enhanced through features that improve performance and convenience, while at the same time guaranteeing durability, reliability and fuel efficiency. The test drive on the sand dunes and the roads of Ilocos should remove doubts regarding this pickup’s capabilities.”
Ensuring the off-roading prowess of the D-MAX LS 4×4 is a new 4WD Terrain Command Select Dial that allows the driver to switch from 4×2 to 4×4 High mode even while traveling at speeds of up to 100kph. The truck boasts an approach angle of 30 degrees and a departure angle of 22.7 degrees, and can be tilted sideways on a 49-degree slope. It is also equipped with a Limited Slip Differential and has one of the highest ground clearances among pickups, thanks to a ride height of 235mm. Along with 255/65 R17 tires, the truck is very suitable over unpaved roads and flooded situations.
The All-New Isuzu D-MAX 4×4 conquered the challenging sand dunes of Paoay, Ilocos Norte– few vehicles would dare try crossing this ground for possibility of getting stuck and stranded.
Isuzu designed the latest D-MAX to have a heavy-duty chassis and a body structure that’s constructed from high-tensile strength steel, making it more rigid. With a superior suspension system composed of independent double wishbone with coil springs in front and semi-elliptical over-slung leaf springs in the rear, vehicle stability is achieved while being able to accommodate a heavy payload.
Power for the D-MAX LS 4×4 is provided by a 4JJ1-TC iTEQ 3.0-liter Common Rail Direct Injection with Turbocharger and Intercooler diesel engine, which makes 146Ps @ 3,800rpm and 294Nm @ 1,400rpm to 3,400rpm. Matched to this is a new 5-speed automatic transmission that has been thoroughly modernized with a sequential shift function.
To let customers know of the D-MAX 4×4’s capabilities, IPC will stage a series of 4×4 test-drive activities starting at Isuzu Pampanga on April 25 to 27; Isuzu Cebu on May 9 to 11; Isuzu Bacolod on May 23 to 25; Isuzu Cagayan de Oro on June 6 to 8; and Isuzu Davao on June 20 to 22.