Latest news with #D-Max
The Citizen
12 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Hilux named world's best-selling bakkie, SA among top markets
Having taken first place with the previous-generation RAV4 as the world's best-selling vehicle of 2024, Toyota has also ranked top as the best-selling bakkie manufacturer over the past 12 months. Global top 10 The Citizen reports that, according to a six-month market study by renowned automotive analyst Felipe Munoz, the Hilux ranked above the Ford F-150 as the world's best-seller with sales of 618 200 versus 594 100. Admittedly sold in more markets compared to the F-150's North American focus, the Hilux finished as one of three Toyota products within the global top 10. Its US counterpart, the Tacoma, placed eighth with 215 600 units sold, while the full-size Tundra ranked ninth on 179 400. The Blue Oval also secured three places within the top 10, with the Ranger in fourth (386 900) and the F-250 10th (167 300). General Motors filled the third and sixth spots with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (418 300) and its upscale twin, the GMC Sierra 1500 (267 500), respectively. Stellantis followed in fifth with the Ram 1500 (282 300), and Isuzu took seventh with the D-Max (262 200). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Felipe Munoz | Automotive (@carindustryanalysis) South Africa ranked In a separate ranking of the biggest non-US market bakkies, South Africa featured in the top 10 for no fewer than six mainstream global models. These include the Hilux (4th), D-Max (4th), Ranger (5th), Nissan Navara (7th), Volkswagen Amarok (4th) and Peugeot Landtrek. Most likely a result of their local production — with Landtrek manufacturing set to start next year — the report excludes Chinese brands and the ageing Mahindra Pik Up, which is sold in fewer international markets. So far this year, South Africa's perennial top three — the Hilux, Ranger and D-Max — again feature among the 10 best-selling vehicles for the first half of 2025, with the Hilux remaining at number one overall, followed by the Ranger in second and the Isuzu fifth. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Felipe Munoz | Automotive (@carindustryanalysis)
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Living with the Isuzu Hi-Lander pickup: Can it tackle the urban jungle?
Traversing through a sea of hatchbacks, white cabs, and compact/subcompact SUVs in Mumbai, we are driving the Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander pickup, the oddball amidst everything else around us. The only common factor is the Mumbai monsoon that spares no one, much like its roads. There is a difference, however. I haven't bothered to slow down over the last pothole or the one before that or that occasional puddle of water on one side of the road. Heck, I've not even slowed down when a waterlogged street required me to do so. The Hi-Lander may not be the practical choice for a dense city like Mumbai, but it's surely turning out to be a wise choice on a rain-fested afternoon like this one. No stereo, auto climate control, and electrically adjustable ORVMs may be deal breakers for some, but the Isuzu Hi-Lander does so much else, so much better. We spent some time with it braving the Mumbai monsoons. The Hi-Lander is basic in its looks and equipment but offers a lot more in terms of capabilities Isuzu Hi-Lander: Basic But Capable The Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander is the base trim in the D-Max pickup range. You've met the more modern and desirable V-Cross trim, but the Hi-Lander is bare bones. Call it basic for what it has to offer. Our test unit is devoid of niceties like electrically adjustable ORVMs, auto climate control, and a stereo system, which would otherwise be deal breakers for some. With the Hi-Lander, the purpose is a lot different. It does so many things differently, so much better. The halogen headlamps and blacked-out grille all scream basic, yet essential. But it's not bare-shell. The blue paint scheme on our test car looks nice and upmarket, while the wheels come with covers that look like alloys from a distance. It's tall, wide, and unapologetic. But the lack of rear parking sensors is concerning, given its mammoth size. Isuzu tells us the latest model on sale is better equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), traction control, Hill Descent Control, auto climate control, rear de-fogger, three-point seatbelts for all seats, along with an occupant detection sensor, and an idle stop system. The Hi-Lander does not offer a stereo system, far from the touchscreen-intensive cabin of today's cars The cabin is equally nice from a basic standpoint. The black and grey fabric upholstered seats offer decent support, while the MID unit stacked between the twin-pod instrument console gives you all the essential information. The plastics feel sturdy, if nothing too fancy, and you know, this won't be rattling too much even after rough use over a few monsoons. Isuzu Hi-Lander: When Work Calls The Hi-Lander is easily not the most friendly in the city. The massive proportions of over 5 metres in length make this quite the poser. The loading area gives it a utilitarian feel. Those looking up to you from their humble cars are equal parts in awe and confusion. Easy to mistake one for the outdoorsy type, I get why. However, driving one in the city gives you the same brownie points as a full-size SUV. The three-wheelers make way for you, and so do the hatches. And like I said earlier, no pothole is too big to slow you down. The 1.9-litre diesel has the old-school grunt. The clatter is distinctive and the motor is audible with a long-travel clutch for company. Not the most ideal in bumper-to-bumper traffic This is one of the few offerings still in the market that offer a rather raw driving experience. The long-travel clutch and the gear shifter are nothing like what you expect from a conventional compact SUV. It's a pain to drive in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Heck, I'm pretty sure my testosterone shot up driving the Hi-Lander, that's how much of manual labour it feels. The door closes with a reassuring thud, and the pickup comes to life with that distinct diesel clatter. The Hi-Lander transports you back to the early 2010s when diesel power wasn't seen with an 'end of the world" gaze. The 1.9-litre diesel engine is as old-school as it comes. Power feels aplenty with 161 bhp and 360 Nm of peak torque, while the 6-speed gearbox channels the power to only the rear wheels. Yes, there is no 4x4 available on this mover. It's enough to get by in the city, especially with torque kicking in from just under 2,000 rpm. There is always a surge waiting for you when you want to overtake or simply coast on the highway in sixth gear at 90 kmph. This feels right at home. The deck has a carrying capacity of 225 kg, enough to move houses and then some Isuzu Hi-Lander: The True Purpose But the biggest selling point remains its massive deck that can help move things. Just when I needed to test its capabilities to the fullest, the perfect opportunity arrived when a friend asked me to help her move houses. It's nice when the stars align and allow you to flex the hardest. The deck has a carrying capacity of 225 kg, more than enough to carry boxes of home decor, furniture, clothes, and even plants. Our test unit was also equipped with the lockable hard lid covering the deck, just what you need during the monsoon season. Outside of the actual labour of getting these in and out of the pickup, this was as direct as it gets. On another occasion, we had to move a family of four after dinner at a restaurant since there was no local transport available. We were the only ones left and decided to lend a helping hand in the Hi-Lander. Good thing the rear seats were big enough to accommodate the unexpected extra load. In a way, the pickup has done it all - move things and people - its primary purpose after all. What's even better is how the suspension settles at cruising speeds. The clunks from the suspension are audible at low speeds, and there is a lot of rebound once you go over broken roads. But load the deck up and show the Hi-Lander flat tarmac, and the pickup settles down very well. The extra payload helps with the damping at the rear, and you will enjoy a rather nice experience. Yes, it's not as refined as an SUV, but it's not as basic as a goods mover either. The Hi-Lander is available at the same price point as several compact SUVs but is a different flavour altogether Isuzu Hi-Lander: Should You Buy One? With a starting price of ₹21.80 lakh (ex-showroom), the Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander is competing directly against compact and midsize SUVs. And honestly, if comfort and practicality are what you are looking for, everything else at this price point will be a better buy. The fact that this is a dated model globally, with a new generation already on sale in international markets, works against it. But the Hi-Lander offers something more; it could just be your ticket to freedom from the mundane life. I had myself dreaming of overlanding adventures in the Hi-Lander outside of the city grind. That's what it does to you. Everything will seem possible. From scouting for tents to building your rig or simply diving into the massive list of accessories available, this is a rabbit hole of possibilities. Do you want to dig deeper? That's for you to decide. First Published Date:
The Citizen
a day ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Toyota and Ford dominate 2024's world's best-selling bakkie list
In an even split within the top 10, both brands featured three products apiece. Arch rivals Toyota and Ford occupy a total of six places within the top 10 best-selling bakkies lists of 2024. Image: Jaco van der Merwe Having taken first place with the previous generation RAV4 as the world's best-selling vehicle of 2024, Toyota has also ranked top as the best-selling bakkie manufacturer of the past 12 months. Global top 10 According to a six-month and 153 market research by renowned automotive analyst Felipe Munoz, the Hilux ranked above the Ford F-150 as the world's best-seller with sales of 618 200 versus 594 100. ALSO READ: Now 'replaced' Toyota named world's best selling car of 2024 Admittedly sold in more markets compared to the F-150's core of North America, the Hilux finished as one of three Toyota products within the top 10, its Stateside twin, the Tacoma, and full-size Tundra placing eighth on 215 600 and ninth on 179 400 respectively. Equally, the Blue Oval also filled three slots within the top 10, with the Ranger placing fourth on 386 900 and the F-250 tenth on 167 300. Out of the remainder of the first 10, General Motors occupied third and sixth positions with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (418 300) and its upscale twin, the GMC Sierra 1500 (267 500), with Stellantis placing fifth on 282 300 with the Ram 1500 and Isuzu seventh on 262 200 with the D-Max. South Africa ranked In a separate report of the biggest non-US market bakkies, South Africa ranked in the top 10 of no less than six mainstream global products. These include the Hilux (4th), D-Max (4th), Ranger (5th), Nissan Navara (7th), Volkswagen Amarok (4th) and Peugeot Landtrek. Most likely as a result of all being locally produced, with production of the Landtrek supposed to start next year, the report doesn't mention any Chinese products, or the dated Mahindra Pik Up sold in fewer global markets. So far this year, South Africa's perennial top three, the Hilux, Ranger and D-Max, once again feature within the top 10 best-selling vehicles for the first half of the year, the former keeping its position at number one overall, followed by the Ranger at number two and the Isuzu at number five. NOW READ: South Africa's top 20 mid-year best-sellers of 2025 revealed
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Automotive
- New Straits Times
Isuzu Malaysia enjoys robust half-year sales
KUALA LUMPUR: Isuzu Malaysia says it has recorded a rise in sales volume, driven by its strongest quarterly performance this year, to solidify its position in the market. The company said another quarter of robust Isuzu D-Max sales had resulted in a 16 per cent market share from a total sales volume of 3,081 units in the first six months of the year. Isuzu Malaysia added that the consistent delivery of fuel-efficient, reliable and high-performing pick-up trucks has reinforced its position as the second-best-selling brand in the segment, led by continued strong demand for the Isuzu D-Max. The company said the D-Max's popularity was largely fuelled by the high demand for its capable 1.9-litre variants, which made up over 85.8 per cent of the total sales. It added that the 1.9-litre 4x4 Auto Premium emerged as one of the top-selling models, contributing a notable 18.6 per cent to total sales. This is thanks to its strong value proposition, combining comfort and advanced safety features. Isuzu Malaysia chief executive officer Tomoyuki Yamaguchi said this year's results reinforce the trend seen since last year, as both pick-up enthusiasts and former passenger car owners continue to recognise the advantages of owning and driving the highly capable Isuzu D-Max. "We hope to continue appealing our product benefits in the second half of the year while ensuring positive experiences for our customers," he added.
The Advertiser
7 days ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Isuzu D-Max EV could top $100,000 in Australia
The Isuzu D-Max EVhas been priced and specified in the UK, and if Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) follows suit the electric dual-cab 4×4 ute could cost more than $100,000 when it arrives here. IUA is yet to announce local pricing, specs or launch timing for the first D-Max electric vehicle (EV), which will be launched in Norway later this year, followed by Thailand and the UK, where it will be released in early 2026. Revealed in April, the D-Max EV will be a critical vehicle for IUA, where its only two existing models – the diesel-powered D-Max ute and the related MU-X large SUV – will be hit with increasing CO2-related financial penalties under the federal government's New vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) from this month. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new D-Max. Click here to get a great deal. However, local demand for the first D-Max EV could be significantly impacted by a price premium that, based on the UK model lineup, could amount to about $30,000 over an equivalent diesel D-Max. In Britain, the range-topping D-Max eV-Cross has been priced at £62,495 plus VAT sales tax – substantially more than the £40,900 price of that market's equivalent diesel-powered V-Cross variant. While a direct currency conversion is less relevant, the same price difference applied to Australia's premium D-Max X-Terrain variant (currently priced at $70,500 before on-road costs), would see a fully loaded D-Max EV priced at around $108,000 plus on-roads. An extended-cab D-Max EV will also be available in the UK, priced at £59,995, but even the entry-level dual-cab electric variant called the eDL40 will cost £60,995 in Britain – over £20,000 ($A40,000-plus) more than the diesel variant on which it's based. Given the cheapest dual-cab 4×4 pickup version of the D-Max currently costs more than $50,000 in Australia, the same price premium would see the dual-motor four-wheel drive D-Max EV priced above $90,000. Australia's first electric ute was the LDV eT60, which was initially launched at $92,990 before on-road costs in late 2022. Following significant discounts since then, it has attracted just 117 sales to June 2025. But while the eT60, which will soon be replaced by the new eTerron 9, was a rear-wheel drive dual-cab which claimed a 330km driving range on the European WLTP standard, the D-Max EV will be offered exclusively with a dual-motor permanent four-wheel drive powertrain offering a claimed range of just 263km under the same test cycle. It will, however, match its diesel equivalent/s with a 1000kg payload and 3500kg towing capacity, as well as similar off-road credentials – despite exchanging rear leaf springs for coil springs in a DeDion rear suspension setup. For reference, the eTerron 9 will bring 430km of range (WLTP), a power output of 325kW and the same 3.5-tonne tow rating. The D-Max EV combines a front axle-mounted electric motor producing 43kW/108Nm with a rear motor delivering 97kW/217Nm to offer a combined total of 140kW/325Nm, matching the D-Max's 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel for power but falling 125Nm short. Its 66.9kWh under-floor battery can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW is claimed to offer 20-80 per cent charging in one hour, with 11kW AC home charging said to provide a 0-100 per cent charge in 10 hours. Top speed is listed at just 128km/h and kerb weight increases by about 200kg of the X-Terrain to 2350kg. However, the D-Max EV otherwise offers similar performance figures to its diesel equivalents, including claimed 0-100km/h acceleration in 10.1 seconds, 210mm of ground clearance (down from 240mm), a 600mm fording depth (down from 800mm), and slightly less generous approach and departure angles of 30.5 and 24.2 degrees respectively. Apart from front quarter and rear 'EV' badging, a grille with blue highlights, and a CCS charging port instead of a diesel fuel filler, the electric D-Max looks almost identical to its dual-cab 4×4 diesel stablemates both inside and out. Inside, there is a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control and heated front seas. The D-Max EV will be offered in Europe in two trim levels, both riding on 18-inch wheels and featuring an energy-saving Eco mode and four levels of selectable brake energy regeneration. First revealed in concept form in March 2024, the D-Max EV could be the next all-electric ute (as opposed to plug-in hybrid utes like the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV) to arrive in Australia after the eTerron 9. Electric versions are expected of the top-selling Ranger, the next-generation Toyota HiLux due in 2026, and the all-new Kia Tasman that launches this month. IUA told CarExpert in February it was considering the release of several electrified versions of the D-Max, including mild-hybrid (MHEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), full electric (EV) and even fuel-cell electric (FCEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) powertrains to meet NVES emissions targets. At the time, Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) deputy general manager Sadanori Sugita confirmed the D-Max EV would be launched in Australia "in the near future", before IUA managing director Junta Matsui said the company would not lock in any electrified powertrains until full details of the NVES had been announced. "We haven't decided anything yet, frankly speaking," he said. "We leave our options open. We try to minimise the impact to the market of course. "We're talking to the product development team, talking to Isuzu in Japan, and of course talking to the government side, because not many details have been disclosed yet, even though NVES is going to start in July." The NVES officially commenced on January 1 this year and fines for exceeding CO2 emissions limits started accruing on July 1, before becoming payable in 2028. It sets specific emissions targets that reduce between 2025 and 2029, for both 'Type 1' passenger cars and 'Type 2' heavy vehicles like the D-Max, which currently produces between 177g/km (for 1.9-litre turbo-diesel variants) and 207g/km of CO2 in 3.0-litre dual-cab 4×4 form. While all D-Max variants are therefore under the 2025 NVES Type 2 target of 210g/km, that CO2 limit will reduce to just 110g/km in 2029. However, Mr Matsui said both the MU-X and D-Max will remain NVES-compliant in the long-term, with the help of electrified powertrains. "We're going to find a way for sure. We're going to make a nice balance," he said. "We try to find a nice balance between being fit for purpose for the Australian people and coping with the NVES targets." MORE: Everything Isuzu Content originally sourced from: The Isuzu D-Max EVhas been priced and specified in the UK, and if Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) follows suit the electric dual-cab 4×4 ute could cost more than $100,000 when it arrives here. IUA is yet to announce local pricing, specs or launch timing for the first D-Max electric vehicle (EV), which will be launched in Norway later this year, followed by Thailand and the UK, where it will be released in early 2026. Revealed in April, the D-Max EV will be a critical vehicle for IUA, where its only two existing models – the diesel-powered D-Max ute and the related MU-X large SUV – will be hit with increasing CO2-related financial penalties under the federal government's New vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) from this month. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new D-Max. Click here to get a great deal. However, local demand for the first D-Max EV could be significantly impacted by a price premium that, based on the UK model lineup, could amount to about $30,000 over an equivalent diesel D-Max. In Britain, the range-topping D-Max eV-Cross has been priced at £62,495 plus VAT sales tax – substantially more than the £40,900 price of that market's equivalent diesel-powered V-Cross variant. While a direct currency conversion is less relevant, the same price difference applied to Australia's premium D-Max X-Terrain variant (currently priced at $70,500 before on-road costs), would see a fully loaded D-Max EV priced at around $108,000 plus on-roads. An extended-cab D-Max EV will also be available in the UK, priced at £59,995, but even the entry-level dual-cab electric variant called the eDL40 will cost £60,995 in Britain – over £20,000 ($A40,000-plus) more than the diesel variant on which it's based. Given the cheapest dual-cab 4×4 pickup version of the D-Max currently costs more than $50,000 in Australia, the same price premium would see the dual-motor four-wheel drive D-Max EV priced above $90,000. Australia's first electric ute was the LDV eT60, which was initially launched at $92,990 before on-road costs in late 2022. Following significant discounts since then, it has attracted just 117 sales to June 2025. But while the eT60, which will soon be replaced by the new eTerron 9, was a rear-wheel drive dual-cab which claimed a 330km driving range on the European WLTP standard, the D-Max EV will be offered exclusively with a dual-motor permanent four-wheel drive powertrain offering a claimed range of just 263km under the same test cycle. It will, however, match its diesel equivalent/s with a 1000kg payload and 3500kg towing capacity, as well as similar off-road credentials – despite exchanging rear leaf springs for coil springs in a DeDion rear suspension setup. For reference, the eTerron 9 will bring 430km of range (WLTP), a power output of 325kW and the same 3.5-tonne tow rating. The D-Max EV combines a front axle-mounted electric motor producing 43kW/108Nm with a rear motor delivering 97kW/217Nm to offer a combined total of 140kW/325Nm, matching the D-Max's 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel for power but falling 125Nm short. Its 66.9kWh under-floor battery can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW is claimed to offer 20-80 per cent charging in one hour, with 11kW AC home charging said to provide a 0-100 per cent charge in 10 hours. Top speed is listed at just 128km/h and kerb weight increases by about 200kg of the X-Terrain to 2350kg. However, the D-Max EV otherwise offers similar performance figures to its diesel equivalents, including claimed 0-100km/h acceleration in 10.1 seconds, 210mm of ground clearance (down from 240mm), a 600mm fording depth (down from 800mm), and slightly less generous approach and departure angles of 30.5 and 24.2 degrees respectively. Apart from front quarter and rear 'EV' badging, a grille with blue highlights, and a CCS charging port instead of a diesel fuel filler, the electric D-Max looks almost identical to its dual-cab 4×4 diesel stablemates both inside and out. Inside, there is a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control and heated front seas. The D-Max EV will be offered in Europe in two trim levels, both riding on 18-inch wheels and featuring an energy-saving Eco mode and four levels of selectable brake energy regeneration. First revealed in concept form in March 2024, the D-Max EV could be the next all-electric ute (as opposed to plug-in hybrid utes like the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV) to arrive in Australia after the eTerron 9. Electric versions are expected of the top-selling Ranger, the next-generation Toyota HiLux due in 2026, and the all-new Kia Tasman that launches this month. IUA told CarExpert in February it was considering the release of several electrified versions of the D-Max, including mild-hybrid (MHEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), full electric (EV) and even fuel-cell electric (FCEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) powertrains to meet NVES emissions targets. At the time, Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) deputy general manager Sadanori Sugita confirmed the D-Max EV would be launched in Australia "in the near future", before IUA managing director Junta Matsui said the company would not lock in any electrified powertrains until full details of the NVES had been announced. "We haven't decided anything yet, frankly speaking," he said. "We leave our options open. We try to minimise the impact to the market of course. "We're talking to the product development team, talking to Isuzu in Japan, and of course talking to the government side, because not many details have been disclosed yet, even though NVES is going to start in July." The NVES officially commenced on January 1 this year and fines for exceeding CO2 emissions limits started accruing on July 1, before becoming payable in 2028. It sets specific emissions targets that reduce between 2025 and 2029, for both 'Type 1' passenger cars and 'Type 2' heavy vehicles like the D-Max, which currently produces between 177g/km (for 1.9-litre turbo-diesel variants) and 207g/km of CO2 in 3.0-litre dual-cab 4×4 form. While all D-Max variants are therefore under the 2025 NVES Type 2 target of 210g/km, that CO2 limit will reduce to just 110g/km in 2029. However, Mr Matsui said both the MU-X and D-Max will remain NVES-compliant in the long-term, with the help of electrified powertrains. "We're going to find a way for sure. We're going to make a nice balance," he said. "We try to find a nice balance between being fit for purpose for the Australian people and coping with the NVES targets." MORE: Everything Isuzu Content originally sourced from: The Isuzu D-Max EVhas been priced and specified in the UK, and if Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) follows suit the electric dual-cab 4×4 ute could cost more than $100,000 when it arrives here. IUA is yet to announce local pricing, specs or launch timing for the first D-Max electric vehicle (EV), which will be launched in Norway later this year, followed by Thailand and the UK, where it will be released in early 2026. Revealed in April, the D-Max EV will be a critical vehicle for IUA, where its only two existing models – the diesel-powered D-Max ute and the related MU-X large SUV – will be hit with increasing CO2-related financial penalties under the federal government's New vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) from this month. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new D-Max. Click here to get a great deal. However, local demand for the first D-Max EV could be significantly impacted by a price premium that, based on the UK model lineup, could amount to about $30,000 over an equivalent diesel D-Max. In Britain, the range-topping D-Max eV-Cross has been priced at £62,495 plus VAT sales tax – substantially more than the £40,900 price of that market's equivalent diesel-powered V-Cross variant. While a direct currency conversion is less relevant, the same price difference applied to Australia's premium D-Max X-Terrain variant (currently priced at $70,500 before on-road costs), would see a fully loaded D-Max EV priced at around $108,000 plus on-roads. An extended-cab D-Max EV will also be available in the UK, priced at £59,995, but even the entry-level dual-cab electric variant called the eDL40 will cost £60,995 in Britain – over £20,000 ($A40,000-plus) more than the diesel variant on which it's based. Given the cheapest dual-cab 4×4 pickup version of the D-Max currently costs more than $50,000 in Australia, the same price premium would see the dual-motor four-wheel drive D-Max EV priced above $90,000. Australia's first electric ute was the LDV eT60, which was initially launched at $92,990 before on-road costs in late 2022. Following significant discounts since then, it has attracted just 117 sales to June 2025. But while the eT60, which will soon be replaced by the new eTerron 9, was a rear-wheel drive dual-cab which claimed a 330km driving range on the European WLTP standard, the D-Max EV will be offered exclusively with a dual-motor permanent four-wheel drive powertrain offering a claimed range of just 263km under the same test cycle. It will, however, match its diesel equivalent/s with a 1000kg payload and 3500kg towing capacity, as well as similar off-road credentials – despite exchanging rear leaf springs for coil springs in a DeDion rear suspension setup. For reference, the eTerron 9 will bring 430km of range (WLTP), a power output of 325kW and the same 3.5-tonne tow rating. The D-Max EV combines a front axle-mounted electric motor producing 43kW/108Nm with a rear motor delivering 97kW/217Nm to offer a combined total of 140kW/325Nm, matching the D-Max's 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel for power but falling 125Nm short. Its 66.9kWh under-floor battery can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW is claimed to offer 20-80 per cent charging in one hour, with 11kW AC home charging said to provide a 0-100 per cent charge in 10 hours. Top speed is listed at just 128km/h and kerb weight increases by about 200kg of the X-Terrain to 2350kg. However, the D-Max EV otherwise offers similar performance figures to its diesel equivalents, including claimed 0-100km/h acceleration in 10.1 seconds, 210mm of ground clearance (down from 240mm), a 600mm fording depth (down from 800mm), and slightly less generous approach and departure angles of 30.5 and 24.2 degrees respectively. Apart from front quarter and rear 'EV' badging, a grille with blue highlights, and a CCS charging port instead of a diesel fuel filler, the electric D-Max looks almost identical to its dual-cab 4×4 diesel stablemates both inside and out. Inside, there is a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control and heated front seas. The D-Max EV will be offered in Europe in two trim levels, both riding on 18-inch wheels and featuring an energy-saving Eco mode and four levels of selectable brake energy regeneration. First revealed in concept form in March 2024, the D-Max EV could be the next all-electric ute (as opposed to plug-in hybrid utes like the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV) to arrive in Australia after the eTerron 9. Electric versions are expected of the top-selling Ranger, the next-generation Toyota HiLux due in 2026, and the all-new Kia Tasman that launches this month. IUA told CarExpert in February it was considering the release of several electrified versions of the D-Max, including mild-hybrid (MHEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), full electric (EV) and even fuel-cell electric (FCEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) powertrains to meet NVES emissions targets. At the time, Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) deputy general manager Sadanori Sugita confirmed the D-Max EV would be launched in Australia "in the near future", before IUA managing director Junta Matsui said the company would not lock in any electrified powertrains until full details of the NVES had been announced. "We haven't decided anything yet, frankly speaking," he said. "We leave our options open. We try to minimise the impact to the market of course. "We're talking to the product development team, talking to Isuzu in Japan, and of course talking to the government side, because not many details have been disclosed yet, even though NVES is going to start in July." The NVES officially commenced on January 1 this year and fines for exceeding CO2 emissions limits started accruing on July 1, before becoming payable in 2028. It sets specific emissions targets that reduce between 2025 and 2029, for both 'Type 1' passenger cars and 'Type 2' heavy vehicles like the D-Max, which currently produces between 177g/km (for 1.9-litre turbo-diesel variants) and 207g/km of CO2 in 3.0-litre dual-cab 4×4 form. While all D-Max variants are therefore under the 2025 NVES Type 2 target of 210g/km, that CO2 limit will reduce to just 110g/km in 2029. However, Mr Matsui said both the MU-X and D-Max will remain NVES-compliant in the long-term, with the help of electrified powertrains. "We're going to find a way for sure. We're going to make a nice balance," he said. "We try to find a nice balance between being fit for purpose for the Australian people and coping with the NVES targets." MORE: Everything Isuzu Content originally sourced from: The Isuzu D-Max EVhas been priced and specified in the UK, and if Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) follows suit the electric dual-cab 4×4 ute could cost more than $100,000 when it arrives here. IUA is yet to announce local pricing, specs or launch timing for the first D-Max electric vehicle (EV), which will be launched in Norway later this year, followed by Thailand and the UK, where it will be released in early 2026. Revealed in April, the D-Max EV will be a critical vehicle for IUA, where its only two existing models – the diesel-powered D-Max ute and the related MU-X large SUV – will be hit with increasing CO2-related financial penalties under the federal government's New vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) from this month. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new D-Max. Click here to get a great deal. However, local demand for the first D-Max EV could be significantly impacted by a price premium that, based on the UK model lineup, could amount to about $30,000 over an equivalent diesel D-Max. In Britain, the range-topping D-Max eV-Cross has been priced at £62,495 plus VAT sales tax – substantially more than the £40,900 price of that market's equivalent diesel-powered V-Cross variant. While a direct currency conversion is less relevant, the same price difference applied to Australia's premium D-Max X-Terrain variant (currently priced at $70,500 before on-road costs), would see a fully loaded D-Max EV priced at around $108,000 plus on-roads. An extended-cab D-Max EV will also be available in the UK, priced at £59,995, but even the entry-level dual-cab electric variant called the eDL40 will cost £60,995 in Britain – over £20,000 ($A40,000-plus) more than the diesel variant on which it's based. Given the cheapest dual-cab 4×4 pickup version of the D-Max currently costs more than $50,000 in Australia, the same price premium would see the dual-motor four-wheel drive D-Max EV priced above $90,000. Australia's first electric ute was the LDV eT60, which was initially launched at $92,990 before on-road costs in late 2022. Following significant discounts since then, it has attracted just 117 sales to June 2025. But while the eT60, which will soon be replaced by the new eTerron 9, was a rear-wheel drive dual-cab which claimed a 330km driving range on the European WLTP standard, the D-Max EV will be offered exclusively with a dual-motor permanent four-wheel drive powertrain offering a claimed range of just 263km under the same test cycle. It will, however, match its diesel equivalent/s with a 1000kg payload and 3500kg towing capacity, as well as similar off-road credentials – despite exchanging rear leaf springs for coil springs in a DeDion rear suspension setup. For reference, the eTerron 9 will bring 430km of range (WLTP), a power output of 325kW and the same 3.5-tonne tow rating. The D-Max EV combines a front axle-mounted electric motor producing 43kW/108Nm with a rear motor delivering 97kW/217Nm to offer a combined total of 140kW/325Nm, matching the D-Max's 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel for power but falling 125Nm short. Its 66.9kWh under-floor battery can be DC fast-charged at up to 50kW is claimed to offer 20-80 per cent charging in one hour, with 11kW AC home charging said to provide a 0-100 per cent charge in 10 hours. Top speed is listed at just 128km/h and kerb weight increases by about 200kg of the X-Terrain to 2350kg. However, the D-Max EV otherwise offers similar performance figures to its diesel equivalents, including claimed 0-100km/h acceleration in 10.1 seconds, 210mm of ground clearance (down from 240mm), a 600mm fording depth (down from 800mm), and slightly less generous approach and departure angles of 30.5 and 24.2 degrees respectively. Apart from front quarter and rear 'EV' badging, a grille with blue highlights, and a CCS charging port instead of a diesel fuel filler, the electric D-Max looks almost identical to its dual-cab 4×4 diesel stablemates both inside and out. Inside, there is a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control and heated front seas. The D-Max EV will be offered in Europe in two trim levels, both riding on 18-inch wheels and featuring an energy-saving Eco mode and four levels of selectable brake energy regeneration. First revealed in concept form in March 2024, the D-Max EV could be the next all-electric ute (as opposed to plug-in hybrid utes like the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV) to arrive in Australia after the eTerron 9. Electric versions are expected of the top-selling Ranger, the next-generation Toyota HiLux due in 2026, and the all-new Kia Tasman that launches this month. IUA told CarExpert in February it was considering the release of several electrified versions of the D-Max, including mild-hybrid (MHEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), full electric (EV) and even fuel-cell electric (FCEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) powertrains to meet NVES emissions targets. At the time, Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) deputy general manager Sadanori Sugita confirmed the D-Max EV would be launched in Australia "in the near future", before IUA managing director Junta Matsui said the company would not lock in any electrified powertrains until full details of the NVES had been announced. "We haven't decided anything yet, frankly speaking," he said. "We leave our options open. We try to minimise the impact to the market of course. "We're talking to the product development team, talking to Isuzu in Japan, and of course talking to the government side, because not many details have been disclosed yet, even though NVES is going to start in July." The NVES officially commenced on January 1 this year and fines for exceeding CO2 emissions limits started accruing on July 1, before becoming payable in 2028. It sets specific emissions targets that reduce between 2025 and 2029, for both 'Type 1' passenger cars and 'Type 2' heavy vehicles like the D-Max, which currently produces between 177g/km (for 1.9-litre turbo-diesel variants) and 207g/km of CO2 in 3.0-litre dual-cab 4×4 form. While all D-Max variants are therefore under the 2025 NVES Type 2 target of 210g/km, that CO2 limit will reduce to just 110g/km in 2029. However, Mr Matsui said both the MU-X and D-Max will remain NVES-compliant in the long-term, with the help of electrified powertrains. "We're going to find a way for sure. We're going to make a nice balance," he said. "We try to find a nice balance between being fit for purpose for the Australian people and coping with the NVES targets." MORE: Everything Isuzu Content originally sourced from:
