2026 Isuzu D-Max to get 2.2L Ddi MaxForce engine in Malaysia – replaces 1.9L Ddi BluePower; ROI open

Isuzu Malaysia is gearing up to launch the new D-Max 2.2 TD, which you can now register your interest for. Like in Thailand, we can expect the long-serving RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre Ddi BluePower four-cylinder turbodiesel engine to make way for the revised RZ4F-TC 2.2 litre Ddi MaxForce mill.

According to the ROI page, the new, Euro 5-compliant 2.2L engine serves up 163 PS and 400 Nm of torque, which is more than the 150 PS and 350 Nm offered by the 1.9L unit. The former’s output figures are identical to that in Thailand, which also sees 2.2L engine be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual – the 1.9L mill got a six-speed automatic or manual.

Aside from the bump in displacement, the Ddi MaxForce mill gets redesigned cylinders with a high-flow lubrication system and a high-swirl combustion chamber to improve combustion efficiency. Ultra-low-friction pistons, an electronic variable geometry turbocharger, higher-pressure direct injectors (now operating at up to 250 MPa) and a multi-core ECU have also been added. Isuzu also claims a 10.7% reduction in extra-urban fuel consumption, as well as the lowest carbon dioxide emissions in its class.

Another bit of information obtained via the ROI page is the list of available variants, of which five will be made available to customers. Here’s the breakdown along with their respective engine and transmission pairings:

• X-Terrain – 3.0L AT
• Premium – 2.2L AT and 3.0L AT
• Auto Plus – 2.2L AT
• Standard – 2.2L AT and 2.2L MT
• Single Cab – 2.2L AT and 2.2L MT

Compared to the current D-Max line-up, the V-Cross and Low Ride are the two variants missing from the upcoming range. Just like it is in Thailand, the larger 3.0 litre 4JJ3-TCX engine – also an inline-four turbodiesel – looks to solider on with 190 PS, 450 Nm and a six-speed auto, applicable only to higher-end variants.

Visually, the new D-Max should be unchanged from the facelifted 2023 model – we got this in 2024 – based on what’s going on in Thailand, which is where our D-Max comes from. Stay tuned as we bring you more details of the new D-Max 2.2TD when it is launched.

GALLERY: Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander 2.2 Ddi MaxForce M A/T at Bangkok International Motor Show 2025

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