Isuzu D-Max

The Isuzu D-Max is a compact pickup truck and mid-size pickup truck manufactured since 2002 by Isuzu. It is a successor to the Isuzu Faster/KB. The first and second-generation model shares its platform with the Chevrolet Colorado. The third-generation model shares its platform with the third-generation Mazda BT-50, which is produced in the same Isuzu plant in Thailand.
In Australasia the D-Max was marketed as the Holden Rodeo from 2003 to 2008, when it was relaunched as the Holden Colorado. The Isuzu D-Max itself was also introduced during 2008, selling alongside the Holden-badged offering.
The D-Max also has an SUV counterpart based on the same platform, which is the MU-7 for the first-generation model, and the MU-X for the succeeding generations.

First generation (RA, RC; 2002)

Market

Thailand

The D-Max pickup truck received its 2002 world premiere in Thailand. This location was chosen because GM-Isuzu had recently decided to close their small truck assembly plant in Japan and move their joint operation to Thailand. The D-Max was available in various models. The Spark was available only as a 4x2, with three configurations between cab chassis, long bed with power steering and without. SpaceCabs, and Cab4s can be divided into two major configurations: standard height 4x2s, and 4x4s with the "Rodeo" name instead of SpaceCab. Crew cabs were all sold with the same Cab4 name. All are built and sold alongside the almost identical Chevrolet Colorado which had debuted in the late first quarter of 2004.
Engine choices for that year until the end of third quarter of 2004 derived from its direct predecessor: 4JH1-T 3.0 and 4JA1-T 2.5.
Hi-Lander 3.0, the trim style became available in late 2003, and ground clearance equals that of the 4x4 models. There were only two cab styles to choose between. This makes Isuzu the third manufacturer in Thailand to begin selling lifted 4x2 pickups.
In October 2004, Isuzu introduced the DDi iTEQ common-rail diesel engine family for the D-Max. The first engine to appear was the 3.0 4JJ1-TC, however, since then, a mid-cycle refresh brought many models fitted with a new front bumper that incorporated an "instant spoiler" underneath. Additionally, new MUA-5H five-speed manual transmission was also introduced.
During the first quarter of 2005, a 2.5 4JK1-TC, the second DDi iTEQ engine, was introduced and offered as an economical choice to replace its aging predecessor. 4x4 models and Hi-Lander's suspensions were raised up 25 millimeters extra.
In the third quarter of 2006, the D-Max received a major facelift and the introduction of a third DDi iTEQ engine, 3.0 4JJ1-TCX. This engine is a modified 4JJ1-TC, incorporating a new Variable Valve Geometry Turbo. The extra power warranted an introduction of new transmissions as well: the MUX 5-Speed manual and MaxMatic-III automatic transmission. All models equipped with Xenon headlamps were changed to projector headlamps instead. Also introduced was the new "Hexapod-plot" interior. Other DDi iTEQ engines were also tweaked a bit for extra power and efficiency.
In 2007, Isuzu celebrated its 50th anniversary in Thailand with "Gold Series" models sold for the 2008 model year. The Hi-Lander Cab4 model with the VGS turbodiesel engine became available for the first time. The 4x4 models get a new front bumper design with chrome accents. Also added was the choice of a 2.5l 4-cylinder engine in LS 4x4 and Hi-Lander models.
During the middle of the first quarter of 2008, the Rodeo LS and Hi-Lander SpaceCab were also fitted with the 3.0-litre VGS Turbodiesel engine to fill all the remaining gaps in the lineup.
In the early fourth quarter of 2008, Isuzu introduced D-Max Platinum models for 2009 to replace the outgoing Gold Series. LS 4x4 and Hi-Lander received a new front grille design; chrome on the LS 4x4 trim and semi platinum-silver on the Hi-Lander trim. Minor-modified headlamps and new fog lamps for a platinum look. 4x2 SLX and SX derived fascias from 4x4/Hi-Lander. Chrome fascia for 3.0 SLX models and colour-keyed fascia for SX. Top heads of 3 DDi iTEQ engines changed from gold to platinum. Some models dropped the 4JJ1-TC 3.0l engine. All retooled to be acceptable with Biodiesel B5. All SpaceCab models featured new middle pillars called Safety Pillar Cab; pillars and door beam larger and thicker. Not all Cab4 models received retooled rear suspension called Super Flex Plus suspension. Spark EX also received new gauge and indicator. D-Max Platinum models commenced on sale from 15 October.
In the middle of September 2009, Isuzu introduced the D-Max Super Platinum models. SL model was dropped. Highline SLX 4x2 models received same fascia and front bumper as Hi-Lander / LS 4x4 style, new 16" wheels and newer styles of alloy wheels for SLX / Hi-Lander / LS 4x4, newer rear bumper, and new "Super Platinum" marque at the tailgate. LS 4x4 models received skid plate attached under the bumper in brighter silver, newer sidestep. Highline Hi-Lander / LS 4x4 models have newer style blind spot rear view mirrors, and new short-plot antenna.
Every year since late 2005 until now, there are several special D-Max & MU-7 models. Available exclusively only for a period during Thailand's 2 largest auto shows and also other special Isuzu occasions. They were all unique yet never the same in each presentation. D-Max Smart models are such one remarkably special model set. Available in several occasions during 2008. This edition modifies SpaceCab 4x2 2.5 by special white pearl exterior colour and optional equipment such as immobilizer key.
Ever since Platinum models introduced, D-Max Smart models expanded up to 3 choices: SpaceCab 4x2, Cab4 4x2, and Hi-Lander 2-Door. These 3 models also updated as new Super Platinum models.
In 2009, a sport version of the D-Max named the X-Series was introduced, aimed especially for a target group of young people normally not interested in using pickup trucks. It was marketed as a "Lifestyle Pickup" and equipped with additional skirts and prominent red Isuzu letters at front grille. The wheels remain unchanged from the normal model but came with gunmetal paint finish. Available in two-door SpaceCab and four-door Cab4 body variants with a manual transmission.
In 2010, D-Max and MU-7 Super Titanium models were introduced. It featured a frontal camera, usually found in luxury cars, first time ever in a Thai pickup, and are the last model in this generation.

Malaysia

The first generation Isuzu D-Max was launched in June 2005. In the year 2007, Isuzu Malaysia has revealed the latest facelift of its Isuzu D-Max double cab pick-up truck, which has a few improvements in terms of the 3.0-litre engine which has more power and 19% more fuel efficiency than the pre-facelift version. Another new facelift was launched in 2009 and minor updates occurring in July 2011. The limited edition has been launched for the first generation Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia. The limited-edition is the "Hi-Def" from September 2008, the new limited edition "Hi-Def" launched from June 2012 limited to 210 units.

Australasia

In Australia and New Zealand, the D-Max was sold as the third-generation Holden Rodeo between 2003 and 2008, before being facelifted into the form of the Holden Colorado. This was a result of the GM-Isuzu split resulting in GM losing the right to use the "Rodeo" name. As with Rodeo, the Colorado is available as either two- or four-wheel drive and in a range of body styles including single cab, space cab and crew cab. Power is provided by a range of petrol and diesel engines. Of the petrol engines, Holden offered a 2.4-litre four-cylinder as well as the Australian-made 3.6-litre Alloytec engine. The diesel powerplant is a four-cylinder Isuzu 4JJ1 unit displacing 3.0 litres. The main difference between the Colorado and the Rodeo is the revised bodywork from the A-pillar forward.
In October 2008, the Isuzu D-Max was launched in Australia, alongside the almost identical Holden Colorado. Officially available in Australia as its own brand under the marketing name Isuzu UTE Australia, separate to the medium-heavy truck manufacturer, Isuzu Australia.
In June 2012, the RC series Holden Colorado was replaced by the RG model.

Engine	Power	Torque	Transmission
2.4 L inline-four			5-speed manual
3.6 L Alloytec V6			4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
3.0 L inline-four			4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
2.8 L inline-four			6-speed automatic 5-speed manual
2.8 L inline-four			6-speed automatic 6-speed manual

New Zealand

In June 2010, Isuzu Utes New Zealand became the official distributor for Isuzu D-Max in New Zealand.

Europe

In the United Kingdom, Isuzu UK is the official distributor for the Isuzu D-Max in summer 2012.

South America

Julie Beamer, director of GM Chile, announced on 5 March 2008 to workers of the only remaining automobile factory in Chile, that said factory would be closed down on 31 July that year. The only vehicle that was in production at the time was the Chevrolet LUV. The announcement came shortly after then-president of Venezuela Hugo Chávez reduced the import quota for cars in Venezuela, the main export market for the Chilean-made Chevrolet LUV, but GM Chile said in its official statement that the reason behind the end of production in Arica was the lack of favorable conditions for vehicle manufacturing in Chile and fierce competition from many other car manufacturers and countries on Chile's car market.

Safety

Second generation (RT; 2011)

In 2011, the Japanese automaker revealed the second-generation D-Max, which was designed in cooperation with General Motors and is a sister model to the second-generation Chevrolet Colorado. As with previous models, the D-Max shares its ladder chassis platform, body construction, mechanical componentry and interior design with the Colorado. The model features different front and rear end styling treatments as well as bespoke body panels.
The new Isuzu ladder-frame chassis platform dubbed "i-GRIP" underpinning the second-generation D-Max is 42% stronger than its predecessors, leading to more improved ride and handling than the first generation. The frame includes improved cross bracing at the rear, improving stability under loads and while towing, while also "ensuring long-term durability when used regularly in harsh environments". The longer wheelbase of – longer than before – became standard on all three body styles.
The Transfer case marketing name has been renamed from "Touch-on-the-fly" to new "Terrain command" system, which uses a simple knob to allow for seamless changing of drive modes from to 2-Wheel Drive mode to 4-Wheel Drive mode. The new suspension, made up of independent double wishbone with coil-spring setup at the front and a rear suspension made up of over slung leaf-springs installed above a special long span rear axle, makes for a comfortable driving experience.
The D-Max continues to be offered in all three body styles: Single Cab, Space Cab, and Crew Cab. Customers will also continue to have a choice of rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models. The Space Extra Cab has laterally opening doors to give easier access to the rear seat. The D-Max is also equipped with safety features such as Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System, Anti-lock Braking System, emergency brake assist, a number of airbags and electronic brakeforce distribution. EBD detects the payload weight and modulates the rear braking force to compensate for the increased vehicle weight. In ESC fitted models, ABS goes to 4-channel 4-sensor type instead of the then 3-channel 4-sensor.