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Local Isuzu D-Max Sales Soar Since Launch Of New Model

Average monthly bookings of the D-Max jumped over 100% since its all-new iteration arrived. 

The sales success story of the new Isuzu D-Max appears not to just be limited to overseas market anymore, as Malaysian sales of this all-new pickup truck have been booming too. 

Ever since this third-generation D-Max went on sale locally this April, Isuzu have been recording average booking figure of around 1,200 units every month. In comparison to the 500 units sold monthly of its prior iteration, this new pickup has therefore in effect nearly trebled the number of vehicles sold by Isuzu (which only now sells one model) over here in Malaysia. 

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

Now delving deeper into the sales statistics of the new D-Max, the 1.9-litre Premium variant equipped with the automatic gearbox remains the variant of choice for the majority of buyers. Accounting for 36% of sales among the 7 trim levels on offer, Isuzu has also noted that sales of this particular variant has been especially popular in Peninsula Malaysia.

In fact, thanks mainly to the low road tax cost from its small-displacement turbodiesel, 61% of sales for that aforementioned trim of D-Max were registered in West Malaysia. Reversing the traditional 60:40 split of pickup sales, which typically tended to favour the East Malaysian market. 

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

Despite its high road tax however, the new flagship X-Terrain variant with its new 3.0-litre oil burning mill is nevertheless still a strong seller for Isuzu. Racking up 17% of the over 2,500 D-Max sales to date (with more than half coming from the peninsula), the Japanese automaker attributes the sales success of this top-tier truck to the high level of safety tech and luxury accoutrements that come as standard with it. 

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

“This all-new D-Max phenomenon that has swept the various markets has been somewhat overwhelming. Needless to say, the attractive design, new and improved features and proven Isuzu reputation contributed significantly towards convincing customers to switch or upgrade to this all-new D-Max model,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer Masayuki Suzuki in regards to the stellar sales of this newly launched pickup. 

“The response to this new model has been extremely positive considering the limited opportunities prospects have had to fully experience the new model due to the strict movement controls and safety protocols. Our current aim is to ensure the smooth, safe and timely delivery of vehicles to our customers despite the various administrative and logistical concerns faced domestically and globally,” he added.

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

According to Isuzu, the wait time for a D-Max has now been shrunk to just three months. Though that does depend on the variant chosen, of which there are 7: 

  • Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Single Cab (MT)                                      RM88,599.20
  • Isuzu D-Max 3.0 Single Cab (MT)                                      RM95,538.40
  • Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Double Cab Standard (MT)                   RM99,599.20
  • Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Double Cab Standard (AT)                    RM106,999.20
  • Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Double Cab Premium (AT)                    RM121,549.20
  • Isuzu D-Max 3.0 Double Cab Premium (AT)                   RM128,038.40
  • Isuzu D-Max 3.0 Double Cab X-Terrain (AT)                  RM141,938.40

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

PRESS RELEASE: Sales of the all-new Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia has flourished with over a 100 percent rise in orders since the new model made its recent debut, mirroring a similar global phenomenon that has witnessed a huge rise in demand for this vastly-improved pick-up truck.

An average monthly booking of over 1,200 units have been received for this new third-generation model since its launch in April this year, recording a generous leap over the previous average monthly bookings of 500 units. This trend emulates an identical euphoria in such markets as Australia, New Zealand and Thailand where sales growth have also multiplied with buyers eagerly snapping up this sporty and versatile utility vehicle due to its fresh and sporty design, enhanced ergonomics and improved engineering.

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

“This all-new D-Max phenomenon that has swept the various markets has been somewhat overwhelming. Needless to say, the attractive design, new and improved features and proven Isuzu reputation contributed significantly towards convincing customers to switch or upgrade to this all-new D-Max model,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer Masayuki Suzuki.

Combining excellent value and a generous suite of features, the 1.9-litre Premium (Auto) has been the top choice with close to 36% percent of buyers picking this as their next pick-up truck. Offering the lowest engine displacement in the market yet producing a hefty amount of performance, the 1.9-litre Premium model is particularly popular in Peninsula Malaysia where the benefits of the low road tax is best appreciated. In fact, 61 percent of sales were chalked up here, reversing the traditional 60/40 balance where East Malaysia absorbed a bigger share of vehicles.

 

The new flagship model – the X-Terrain – powered by an improved 3.0-litre engine that offers significantly more refinement and performance has also been a popular choice with buyers nationwide, making up 17 percent of the total volume. Despite a premium on its road tax, more than half of all the X-Terrain sales have come from the Peninsular where many of its niceties such as its Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) and comfort features, refined and intuitive cabin, bold and sporty design and superior handling both on and off road make it particularly popular with lifestyle buyers. 

While the all-new Isuzu D-Max has made inroads into the lifestyle segment with its improved design and ergonomics, 81 percent of new owners have stated that they would utilize their trucks for both work and pleasure underlining the inherently robust nature of Isuzu products.

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

“The response to this new model has been extremely positive considering the limited opportunities prospects have had to fully experience the new model due to the strict movement controls and safety protocols. Our current aim is to ensure the smooth, safe and timely delivery of vehicles to our customers despite the various administrative and logistical concerns faced domestically and globally,” added Mr Suzuki.

The all-new Isuzu D-Max is a true game changer with a mix of variants suited to individual requirements and desires. To find out more, an augmented reality experience is available for those who wish to browse in the safety of their own homes. Check out the all-new Isuzu D-Max at pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my or https://www.facebook.com/ISUZU.DMax.Malaysia/

Isuzu D-Max pickup truck

Joshua Chin

Automotive journalist. Professional work on dsf.my and automacha.com. Personal writing found at driveeveryday.me. Instagram: @driveeveryday

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