Isuzu's 150kW bi-turbo D-Max isn't coming to SA yet. Here's why
Isuzu's new 2.2-litre bi-turbo D-Max makes 150kW and 500Nm, more than any D-Max before it. It launched in Thailand, but South Africa's diesel quality is holding it back here.
Isuzu's most powerful D-Max yet, powered by a new 2.2-litre bi-turbo diesel, went on show in Thailand on Saturday, 24 October. South African buyers can't get it, and Isuzu South Africa hasn't said when, or if, it will arrive (The Citizen, CAR magazine).
The same engine goes into the MU-X SUV. Thai dealers are due to get both in October 2026 (CAR magazine).
How powerful is the new engine?
It makes 150kW at 3 600 r/min and 500Nm between 1 600 and 2 600 r/min, the highest output of any D-Max or MU-X sold anywhere (CAR magazine).
That is 10kW and 50Nm more than the 3.0-litre turbodiesel in the top South African D-Max, which makes 140kW and 450Nm (CAR magazine).
Isuzu's own claims, compared with the current 3.0-litre (The Citizen):
- 8% better fuel efficiency
- 0 to 100km/h about 5% quicker
- 80 to 100km/h overtaking about 12% quicker
The engine adds a second turbo to Isuzu's existing single-turbo 2.2, along with a new injection system, new pistons, stronger cylinder sleeves and better cooling. When Isuzu first showed it in a concept at last year's Bangkok motor show, it was rated at 162kW and 550Nm. The production version was toned down (The Citizen).
Why isn't it coming to South Africa?
The Citizen reports that the 2.2-litre family can't yet run on South Africa's lower-quality diesel. That is also why the single-turbo 2.2, already sold in markets such as Australia with 120kW and 400Nm, has never been offered here (The Citizen, CAR magazine).
In February, Isuzu South Africa's Dominic Rimmer said the company was looking at the 2.2 but first had to test it locally. "It will come, but we need to make it ready for South Africa," he said (The Citizen).
Isuzu hasn't announced a South African launch date, and none of the reports gives one.
What can you buy here now?
The facelifted D-Max, built in South Africa and launched in June, keeps the 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre diesels. The MU-X, built in Thailand, gets the same two engines here (The Citizen).
The top D-Max LSE double cab with the 3.0-litre and a six-speed automatic costs R900 310. The range comes with a five-year or 90 000km service plan and a five-year or 120 000km warranty (The Citizen).
FAQ
Is the Isuzu D-Max 2.2 bi-turbo available in South Africa?
No. It has only been launched in Thailand so far, and Isuzu has not confirmed it for South Africa.
How much power does the new Isuzu 2.2 bi-turbo make?
150kW and 500Nm, according to Isuzu Thailand's launch figures reported by CAR magazine. That is more than any other D-Max or MU-X.
Why doesn't South Africa get the Isuzu 2.2-litre engine?
The Citizen reports the 2.2-litre engines can't yet run on South Africa's lower-quality diesel. Isuzu South Africa has said it must test the engine locally first.
Which engines does the South African D-Max have?
A 1.9-litre turbodiesel and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel. The 3.0-litre makes 140kW and 450Nm.