Nation’s first energy-efficient auto
Published on: Saturday, September 21, 2019
Isuzu D-Max 1.9 litre EEV.
Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s first Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) pick-up truck was launched Wednesday, with Isuzu D-Max powered by a revolutionary 1.9-litre engine.Having produced some 25 million engines as the oldest automotive manufacturer in Japan, Isuzu proudly takes the leap into the future by introducing the new RZ4E, one of the most compact, efficient and robust diesel engines for pick-up trucks today.
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Designed to meet future requirements for reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions, the new 1898cc engine surpasses all its design parameters despite its small displacement by increasing engine performance, durability and better economy, lower NVH, lower friction and operating cost, according to a statement Thursday.
The resulting breakthroughs, particularly in its low fuel consumption and CO2 led to the 1.9-litre Isuzu D-Max being the first pick-up truck in the country to be certified based on UN Regulations 101 with the EEV status by the Road Transport Department of Malaysia (JPJ).
Deemed revolutionary by Isuzu Malaysia CEO Koji Nakamura, it combined cutting-edge technology and Isuzu know-how to provide users with the ideal combination of durability, performance and economy.
To extend the benefits of the new Isuzu D-Max to a wider audience, Isuzu Malaysia has focused part of its range of eleven variants towards the business segment starting with the new entry, the 1.9-litre low ride 4x2 manual that is directly aimed at serving the business community. This is followed by the single cab models that come with 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre engines, both with 4x4 drivetrain.
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Then come the double cab versions available in manual or auto in basic (Type B) and premium trim. Joining this line up is the new 4x2 auto version aimed at the urban user who does not require the 4x4 function. Top of the line are the 4x4 Auto Premium variants both with the 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre engines.
Apart from the new body decal design, the new Isuzu D-Max distinctively carries a new 18-inch alloy rim design that not only provides the vehicle with a sportier look, it provides sharper handling to the Isuzu D-Max that already benefits from a 56kg reduction in weight of the new engine. Automatically-folding door mirrors add to the convenience when parking in tight spots.
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To aid loading, Isuzu have also developed a soft-touch tailgate that is available as an option. The mechanism uses a novel strut to control the opening speed of the tailgate while a torsion bar makes lifting possible using just one finger.
A high-speed USB charging port sits ahead of the gear selector and the Isuzu D-Max now comes with a secondary port situated behind the centre compartment for rear passengers allowing gadgets or mobile devices to remain well charged on any journey.
The gem in the new Isuzu D-Max must certainly be the 1898cc RZ4E-TC engine. Developed internally over four years by Isuzu Motors in Japan, the engine boasts technical breakthroughs that have resulted in a higher engine output of 150PS @ 3,600rpm (up by 10pc) and 350Nm of torque (up by 9pc) between 1,800 and 2,600rpm over the existing 2.5-litre 4JK1-TCX.
The new Isuzu D-Max also features the inclusion of Hill Descent Control (HDC) making descending steep or slippery slopes a less tricky task. New too is the Vehicle Launch Assist Control that increases initial torque on gradients of 25pc or more. Through this feature, the vehicle is quicker off the mark without suffering the effects of turbo lag when accelerating from idle.
As an introductory campaign, Isuzu Malaysia is conducting a nationwide test drive campaign at all its dealerships where a mystery gift awaits all who test drive the new 1.9-litre Blue Power Isuzu D-Max between September 21 and October 31 this year. Prospects will also receive a ticket that entitles them to be in the running for a Blue Fever lucky draw at the end of the promotional period.Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
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