A more affordable D-Max
SHAH ALAM: Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd has launched a new fuel-efficient 4X2
manual transmission variant of its popular D-Max pick-up truck series.
Its managing director Kyoka Kondo said the new 2.5-litre turbo-diesel
variant is affordably priced on-the-road without insurance at RM67,837 and aimed at both private and commercial users.
“The new Isuzu D-Max 2.5-litre with manual transmission has been one of the most popular variant of the D-Max range as the vehicle offers the same
versatility of the larger 4X4 3.0-litre variant but at a much lower fuel
consumption,” he said at the launch of the new variant in Shah Alam.
The new truck, which is miserly on fuel consumption, is an ideal choice for small- and medium-sized enterprises, petty traders and private users who want the large load capacity of the D-Max without the need for the 4X4 capability.
As a test of the variant’s fuel economy, Isuzu arranged for a stock standard to be driven for 1,400km - from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Baru to Sungai Petani and back - on a single tank full of diesel. The variant has 76-litre fuel tank.
The test was conducted under the supervision of Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM) officials to ensure that no tricks were used.
Among the conditions imposed by AAM stewards were that the D-Max variant
would not be allowed to coast down hill or have its tyres over inflated. The vehicle was also to be driven with the air conditioning switched on at all times.
The new D-Max has a five-speed manual gearbox with a tall overdrive fifth gear to allow easy highway cruising.
At the conclusion of the fuel economy test at Monfort Boys Town, AAM
chairman Tunku Mudzaffar Tunku Mustapha presented a certificate of
achievement to Isuzu Malaysia for its remarkable mileage feat conducted
using a standard and unmodified vehicle.
The D-Max was later donated to Monfort Boys Town for its official use.
Monfort director Brother Rajamanikan Anthony accepted the vehicle on behalf of his organisation.
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