The updated Isuzu D-Max recorded a 3% increase in market share despite Malaysia’s diesel subsidy rationalisation.
While diesel subsidies may have only recently been reinstated, it nevertheless appears that Malaysians who genuinely need a dependable workhorse during the days of unsubsidised diesel have continued to flock to the Isuzu D-Max. Such is as Isuzu Malaysia has recently announced that the pickup commanded a 17.3% market share during the second quarter of 2026, marking a 3% increase over the previous quarter.
Or in other words, nearly one in every five pickup trucks sold in Malaysia between April and June this year wore an Isuzu badge!
Now that modest yet significant growth most likely stems from the introduction of the updated D-Max range, which arrived earlier this March. Headlining the refresh was the arrival of a new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, replacing the long-serving 1.9-litre unit, alongside a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
More specifically, this new 2,164 cc turbodiesel has been comprehensively reworked with new internals, a new turbocharger and a high-pressure 250 MPa fuel injection system. Output has consequently risen to 163 PS and 400 Nm, representing gains of 13 PS and 50 Nm over the old 1.9-litre.
Isuzu is currently claiming that this new powertrain delivers 56% better off-the-line response, thanks to 255 Nm of torque being available from just 1,000 rpm. Despite the bump in performance, efficiency has apparently improved too, with the company quoting a 10.7% reduction in extra-urban fuel consumption. Emissions have also been reduced by 21%, while particulate emissions are said to be cut by as much as 99%.
The expanded D-Max range now consists of ten variants, making it one of the broadest pickup lineups currently available in Malaysia. Among the more notable additions is Malaysia’s first single-cab pickup to be offered with an automatic transmission, aimed at buyers seeking the practicality of a commercial vehicle without sacrificing ease of driving.
And as for which variant has proven to be the most popular, that honour goes to the new 2.2-litre Standard 4×4 Auto, which accounts for 36% of all D-Max sales. The new 2.2-litre Single Cab Auto meanwhile makes up 60% of D-Max single-cab sales, highlighting strong demand for a workhorse that is just as comfortable on the daily commute as it is on the job site.
“The traditionally-renowned capabilities of the Isuzu D-Max now combine with a new suite of performance benefits that include refined performance and even greater fuel efficiency that offers Malaysian motorists a superior all-round pickup truck,” said Isuzu Malaysia chief executive officer Tomoyuki Yamaguchi.
