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Kota Kinabalu: Isuzu Malaysia has unveiled the 2026 D-MAX range fitted with a new 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine, delivering increased power and torque over the outgoing 1.9-litre unit while meeting Euro 5 emission standards, a first for a pick-up truck range in Malaysia.

The launch was marked by a media drive flagged off by Universal Motor Sdn Bhd Managing Director Datuk Chok Yun Kiong from the company’s UNI Kalansanan showroom, here, Friday.

The convoy travelled to Kundasang, with the route designed to demonstrate the vehicle’s real-world performance on Sabah’s hilly and varied terrain.

The new engine produces 163PS at 3,600rpm and 400Nm of torque between 1,600rpm and 2,400rpm, representing gains of 8.7 per cent and 14.3 per cent respectively compared to the previous 1.9-litre engine.

Isuzu said 255Nm of torque is available from as low as 1,000rpm, contributing to improved low-speed responsiveness.

The 2026 D-MAX also introduces an 8-speed automatic gearbox with sequential shift across the range, including the Single Cab variant, making it the first pick-up truck in Malaysia to offer an automatic transmission in that body style.

Isuzu Malaysia Chief Operating Officer Kenichi Kudo said the new engine was developed with local driving conditions in mind.

“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 2026 range now spans nine variants, which Isuzu said is the broadest pick-up truck lineup offered by a single manufacturer in Malaysia. The flagship X-Terrain retains the 3.0-litre engine, while the 2.2-litre unit powers the Premium 4x4, 4x2 Auto Plus, Standard 4x4 and Single Cab variants.

All 4x4 models now include Rough Terrain Mode, an off-road traction control feature.

Visual updates include revised front light clusters, grille, rims and side steps. Two new colours, Inishmore Green Metallic and Obsidian Gray Mica, are available on selected variants, while Mercury Silver is offered on the Single Cab 2.2L. Automatic variants also receive body-coloured bumpers.

On the technology side, the X-Terrain, Premium and 4x2 Auto Plus models gain a 10-inch infotainment system, while the Standard variant is upgraded to a 7-inch head unit and now comes with Tailgate Assist as standard equipment.

All 2.2-litre and 3.0-litre variants include a free periodic maintenance package covering 20,000km or two years, along with a warranty of 150,000km or five years.

The X-Terrain carries an extended seven-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Pricing for the D-MAX 2.2L Single Cab Automatic starts at RM111,204.60 in Sabah and RM111,267.60 in Sarawak. The D-MAX 2.2L Premium 4x4 is priced at RM144,804.60 in Sabah and RM144,867.60 in Sarawak.

All prices are on-the-road without insurance for individual buyers.