SPY PICS: Next-gen Isuzu D-MAX ute exposed
Isuzu is well down the track towards the Australian launch of its third-generation D-MAX workhorse in 2020The third-generation ISUZU D-Max ute is well into its development, as these spy photos of a left-hand drive test mule going through its paces in snowy Scandinavian climes reveal.
The Japanese company is believed to be progressing steadily towards a global unveiling some time near the end of the year, and Australia is expected to follow with a local launch in 2020.
The Thai-built Isuzu D-MAX range will again spawn a new MU-X seven-seat SUV, with more separation between the models in terms of looks and refinement, and will also be twinned with the next-generation Mazda BT-50.
The off-road ready MU-X wagon is said to be heading towards comfort, refinement and on-road behaviour more akin to large SUVs such as the Toyota Kluger and Hyundai Santa Fe.
Infotainment and safety features are anticipated to be beyond what is currently available, adding autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control into the mix.
The Isuzu D-MAX test mule's enlarged grille, LED headlights and apparently tougher stance suggest the next Isuzu ute – and the new Mazda BT-50 – will strut its stuff with greater assurance and, possibly, improved capabilities over the already-impressive current range.
Rumours are also circulating that Isuzu could be considering a coil-spring rear suspension as a possibility for the D-MAX.
Although European markets will continue to utilise a new 360Nm 1.9-litre turbo-diesel for the next D-MAX, it's expected the company will continue to offer the existing 3.0-litre four-cylinder engine that is doing a sterling job in the current model.
The next-gen Isuzu D-MAX will also mark the Mazda BT-50's departure from its Ford Ranger roots as the company brings to fruition a deal that will see both the Isuzu and Mazda becoming virtual twins.
The Isuzu D-MAX, along with the MU-X SUV, has been distributed in Australia by the Queensland-based Mitsubishi subsidiary Isuzu Ute since 2008 and was the nation's fifth most popular new ute in 2018.
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