Last week, Isuzu Philippines Corporation brought several motoring journalists to Ilocos Norte for a special kind of off-road driving featuring the D-Max 4x4. "The D-Max LS 4x4 challenged the terrain of the world-famous Paoay sand dunes in Ilocos Norte," IPC says. "The vehicle, which carries Isuzu's reputed strengths of durability, reliability and fuel efficiency, adds the promise of go-anywhere adventure thanks to its tried-and-tested 4x4 system."
The D-Max 4x4 boasts an advanced electronically controlled 4x4 system that features 4x4 High and 4x4 Low modes that can be engaged via a knob on the center console.
"The D-Max has always been known for strengths that make it not just a workhorse but also a vehicle that can provide owners maximum enjoyment," IPC president Nobuo Izumina points out. "In the all-new D-Max 4x4, these traits are enhanced through features that improve performance and convenience, while at the same time guaranteeing durability, reliability and fuel efficiency. The test drive on the sand dunes and the roads of Ilocos should remove doubts regarding this pickup's capabilities."
Those "doubts" that Izumina is referring to must have stemmed from the fact that the new D-Max comes with a carryover engine from the old model--the 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TC iTEQ common-rail direct-injection turbodiesel engine. But as the photos here show, the new D-Max is very much capable of conquering even the most uncooperative of terrains. Much is owed to the level of equipment and design that Isuzu gave this pickup: 4WD Terrain Command Select Dial, limited slip differential, 255/65 R17 tires, an approach angle of 30 degrees, a departure angle of 22.7 degrees, and a ride height of 235mm.
Now, if you're still unconvinced in spite of these images, you might want to test-drive the D-Max 4x4 yourself. Isuzu is holding a series of 4x4 test-drive activities around the country: Isuzu Pampanga on April 25-27; Isuzu Cebu on May 9-11; Isuzu Bacolod on May 23-25; Isuzu Cagayan de Oro on June 6-8; and Isuzu Davao on June 20-22.
