Isuzu D-Max strengthens market position in Malaysia as new 2.2-litre variants gain traction

Isuzu Malaysia says its updated D-Max range, powered by the new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, has received a strong response from Malaysian buyers, helping the brand increase its share of the local pick-up truck market during the second quarter of 2026.

According to the company, Isuzu captured a 17.3% share of Malaysia's pick-up segment in Q2 2026, representing a three-percentage-point increase compared to the previous quarter.

The biggest contributor to the brand's sales has been the new D-Max 2.2-litre Standard 4x4 Auto, which accounted for 36% of all D-Max deliveries during the period.

Introduced in March this year, the refreshed Isuzu D-Max line-up now consists of ten variants, offering one of the widest model ranges in Malaysia's pick-up segment. Central to the update is the new 2.2-litre diesel engine, which replaces the long-serving 1.9-litre unit.

The new powertrain is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is designed to deliver improved refinement, stronger performance and better fuel efficiency, while meeting Euro 5 emissions standards.

Isuzu Malaysia also highlighted the popularity of its 2.2-litre Single Cab Auto, the first single-cab pick-up in Malaysia to be offered with an automatic transmission. The variant now makes up 60% of all D-Max Single Cab sales, with the company attributing its success to the combination of improved ease of driving and its ability to handle demanding commercial duties.

Isuzu Malaysia CEO Tomoyuki Yamaguchi said the latest D-Max combines the model's traditional strengths with improvements in refinement, performance and fuel economy, making it a more well-rounded pick-up for Malaysian buyers.

Meanwhile, Isuzu Malaysia Light Commercial Vehicle Division COO Kenichi Kudo described the new 2.2-litre engine and eight-speed automatic transmission as the company's "Best Engine Ever", citing improvements in fuel consumption, power delivery, cabin refinement and emissions performance.

Customers interested in the new Isuzu D-Max range can visit their nearest authorised Isuzu dealership or the company's official website for more information.