Headlining the 17MY D-MAX’s and 16.5MY MU-X’s arrival is their new “Pumped Up” engine.
Both vehicles are now equipped with a Euro5 emission compliant 3.0 litre 4JJ1-TC Hi-Power turbo-diesel engine. This new engine is a world first for Isuzu. It was developed exclusively for the Australian market after exhaustive research and testing into the use and demands of existing Isuzu owners, and no other Isuzu D-MAX or MU-X market currently features an Isuzu 3.0 litre Euro5 compliant engine.
Maximum torque output has been increased to 430Nm from the previous model’s output of 380Nm to meet the demands of Australian operating conditions and our customer’s expectations.
Compared to the previous engine, 380Nm of torque (previous maximum) is now on tap from 1,700 – 3,500 rpm – which is 100 rpm lower and continues 700 rpm higher – meaning the same engine rpm provides more power and the same torque can be generated at lower engine rpm.
By producing more power at lower engine rpm, and more torque, the new “Pumped Up” D-MAX and MU-X are both more fuel efficient and produce less toxic exhaust emissions – but still deliver Isuzu’s famous “tree-stump-pulling grunt”, that’s fit for the biggest of jobs.
A new variable geometry turbocharger with intercooler, and ultra-high pressure common rail fuel injection ensures precise and efficient fuel delivery, and a newly designed differential has also been introduced to handle the increase in engine torque and ensure that Isuzu’s legendary durability and reliability lives on.
Revealing the excellence of Isuzu’s diesel technology know-how, the 17MY D-MAX and 16.5MY MU-X’s 4JJ1-TC Hi-Power Euro5 turbo-diesel engine has a number of new features:
1. New design pistons
2. New design fuel injectors
3. New design fuel supply pump
4. VGS turbo-charger
5. Larger Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler
6. New design EGR bypass valve
7. Ceramic glow plugs
8. Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS)
9. Diesel Particulate Diffuser (DPD)
All these new features culminate in a more fuel efficient and low emission turbo-diesel engine that harnesses Isuzu’s century of diesel engine manufacturing, and continues to maintain Isuzu’s reputation for outstanding reliability and low cost of ownership.
New “Pumped Up” transmissions designed and built for purpose
With a new Aisin AWR6B45 6-Speed Automatic Transmission with “lock-up” torque converter, drivers of the D-MAX and MU-X are provided the most efficient gear selection to suit a wide variety of driving conditions – further improving fuel efficiency and lowering CO2 emissions. This automatic transmission features a “adaptive learning” function, which automatically adjusts the gear changes to suit your driving style and circumstances, whether it be towing a load, driving in undulating regions or cruising at highway speeds – thereby improving both driveability and fuel efficiency. A sequential shift mode allows the driver to select gears on demand, giving the driver the same level of control as in a manual transmission, which is extremely beneficial in off-road environments. The new Aisin AWR6B45 6-Speed Automatic Transmission also incorporates the Slip Control System Lock-up Clutch (Lock-up Torque Converter) which raises transmission efficiency in the 2nd to 6th gears (all gears except 1st and reverse) when a certain speed is reached, and improves fuel efficiency. The lock-up clutch will be released when the accelerator pedal is pressed forcefully. This system provides increased transmission efficiency and fuel economy, and automatically operates to reduce torque converter slip loss during moderate acceleration at low speed. It also increases the efficiency effects of engine fuel-cut when coasting.
Also on offer is a new 6-Speed manual transmission designed exclusively by Isuzu. It features “close ratio” gears and “triple cone” synchronizers to provide easier gear selection and long service life. The new 6-speed manual transmission is also linked to a Gear-Shift Indicator on the driver’s instrument panel which intelligently displays the recommended gear position for optimum fuel efficiency.
17MY D-MAX – A new exterior design
The 17MY D-MAX has a new face with a heavy-duty and purposeful appearance. A newly designed engine hood and bold grille gives the D-MAX a stronger, bolder and more rugged appeal. A new headlamp design that accentuates the flowing lines of the front facia and bumper includes projector headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lamps for all LS models, with redesigned front fog lamps providing excellent driver visibility at night, or during inclement weather. EX and SX models also receive a new look halogen head lamp assembly. The LS-T variant 17MY D-MAX also receives new design alloy wheels.
The D-MAX’s aerodynamic wedge shape and roof design provides one of the lowest coefficient of drag (Cd) in its class. Extensively tested in various wind tunnel test facilities around the world – including the Japan Railway Research Institute and wind tunnel facilities in Europe – the Cd of the 17MY D-MAX is 0.4% better than the previous model.
A focus on safety
All LS variants of both the D-MAX and MU-X now receive a reverse camera, and SX and EX D-MAX variants now have an optional accessory reverse camera available.
Both vehicles offer an extensive and impressive level of occupant protection, six airbags (dual front, side and full-length curtain), 4-channel 4-sensor Anti-skid Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and Brake Assist (BA), as well as Hill Start Assist (HAS) and Hill Decent Control (HDC) including, plus dual pre-tensioners with load limiters for the front seatbelts.
There are height adjustable head restraints for all occupants (excluding Space Cab variants), along with ISO-FIX child restraint points in both models.
Both the D-MAX and MU-X cabins are constructed from High Tensile Steel for outstanding strength and rigidity to create a resilient passenger safety cell. To further enhance this design criteria, Isuzu engineers have made use of “Tailor-welding Blank” construction techniques in those areas that warrant additional strength for increased occupant protection, including anti-intrusion door beams.
New comfort and convenience
Both the D-MAX and MU-X have received significant improvements to cabin comfort with the addition of new sound and vibration insulation that provides a more composed driving experience for all occupants.
17MY D-MAX SX and LS-M variants now introduce a 7-inch touch screen display audio system, while LS-U and LS-T variants incorporate an 8-inch touch screen display audio system with in-built Sat Nav.
In addition, 17MY D-MAX Crew SX and LS-M models now receive eight speakers delivering audio for all occupants: two roof mounted speakers in addition to the two front door mounted speakers, two dash mounted tweeters and two rear door mounted speakers.
As with D-MAX, MU-X LS-M variants now introduce a 7-inch touch screen display audio system, with LS-U and LS-T variants receiving the 8-inch touch screen display audio system with in-built Sat Nav.
USB ports now number three in all LS spec variants of both the D-MAX and MU-X. Two are located in the front dash and one in the rear, providing convenient charge points for mobile phones and other portable devices with USB charge ports.
Off-road ready
All 4×4 variants of the D-MAX and MU-X offer an impressive level of ground clearance, affording these models true rugged off-road performance. For added protection, 4×4 models are also equipped with a steel front skid plate, steel sump and transfer case guards plus protection for the leading edge of the fuel tank when travelling off-road.
A newly added Hill Descent Control (HDC) assists driver control by controlling the vehicle’s brakes to maintain a constant low speed when descending steep slopes, or on slippery off-road surfaces. Increased driver control means increased safety, and importantly, HDC is offered on all Isuzu vehicles, including 4×2 variants.
New D-MAX X-RUNNER – Forged from history
To celebrate 100 years of Isuzu automotive manufacturing, Isuzu UTE Australia has introduced a limited edition D-MAX to its one-tonne ute line-up, the 2017 X-RUNNER.
Based on the 17MY Isuzu D-MAX 4×4 with the new 3.0 litre, 430Nm, 6-speed drivetrain, the 2017 X-RUNNER receives customised interior features such as a dark grey trim with piano black accents, sporty red steering wheel stitching and badge, and distinctive two-tone red and black seats. In addition the interior also scores auto climate control air-conditioning, as well as a reverse camera with Rear Park Assist.
The exterior styling of the X-RUNNER also turns heads, with striking red Isuzu badging – as well as a unique 100 years motif, gun metal grey grille, alloys and side steps, and a black sports bar and under-rail tub liner.
Priced at $46,990 drive-away – only 600 X-RUNNERs will be available – in either stunning pearlescent white or cosmic black metallic paint.
Service Plus 555 – Even more bang for your buck
As a testament to the immense confidence we have in building durable, reliable and efficient vehicles, every Isuzu vehicle is backed by the Isuzu UTE Australia Service Plus Program which includes a 5 year warranty, 5 year Roadside Assistance and 5 year/50,000 kilometre Capped Price Servicing program – which adds further peace of mind when it comes to protecting your investment and your wallet.
Additional Information for Fleet Managers
Wheels and Tyres
4×2 SX (Low-Ride)
15″ x 6.5″ drilled silver-finish steel; 215 / 70 R15c Highway Terrain
4×4 EX, SX and 4×2 SX (High-Ride)
16″ x 7″ drilled silver-finish steel; 245 / 70 R16 All Terrain 4×4 LS-M 16″ x 7″ alloy; 245 / 70 R16 All Terrain 4×4
LS-U and 4×2 LS-U (High-Ride)
17″ x 7″ alloy; 255 / 65 R17 Highway Terrain
All models: full size steel spare wheel
