Isuzu Malaysia is seeing strong demand for its new 2.2-litre D-Max range, with the updated pick-up helping the brand increase its share of Malaysia’s pick-up truck market to 17.3% in Q2 2026.
The figure represents a three-percentage-point improvement over the previous quarter, highlighting growing demand for the latest D-Max following its introduction earlier this year.
The new 2.2-litre diesel engine replaces the previous 1.9-litre unit and is positioned as a key upgrade for the D-Max, bringing improved response, refinement and fuel efficiency while meeting Euro 5 emissions standards.
It is paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, developed to complement the characteristics of the new engine and deliver smoother, more responsive performance.
“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,” said Isuzu Malaysia CEO Tomoyuki Yamaguchi.
The D-Max 2.2 Standard 4×4 Auto is currently the most popular variant, accounting for 36% of the model’s sales.
Since the launch of the 2026 D-Max range in March, Isuzu Malaysia has expanded its line-up to 10 variants, giving buyers a wider choice across different applications and price points.
The new engine is also proving popular among commercial users. The D-Max 2.2 Single Cab Auto, which Isuzu says is Malaysia’s first single-cab pick-up offered with an automatic transmission, now accounts for 60% of the brand’s single-cab sales.
Despite its focus on workhorse capability, the automatic transmission is designed to make the Single Cab easier to drive, while its four-wheel-drive system allows it to tackle challenging terrain and carry heavy loads.
Isuzu Malaysia Light Commercial Vehicle Division COO Kenichi Kudo said the new engine has raised the D-Max’s capabilities across several areas.
“The new powerhouse achieves improved heights in every aspect ranging from fuel efficiency, power, quietness and emission. That’s why we don’t hesitate to call it our ‘Best Engine Ever’,” said Kudo.
With strong demand for the 2.2-litre variants and a broader 10-variant line-up, the latest D-Max is giving Isuzu a stronger foothold in Malaysia’s increasingly competitive pick-up truck market.
