Isuzu has pulled the covers off a 2027 update for the Isuzu D-Max and MU-X, headlined by a new twin-turbo version of its 2.2 litre diesel. The bi-turbo engine makes 150kW at 3600rpm and 500Nm between 1600 and 2600rpm, a solid step up from the 120kW and 400Nm of the current single-turbo 2.2 litre.
More muscle for the top grades
The new engine uses a high-pressure injection system and pairs with a six-speed manual or a retuned eight-speed automatic, and for now it is reserved for the higher-spec variants. The facelift also brings mild styling changes, including revised grilles and front detailing. Isuzu builds both models in Thailand for local and export markets, including Australia, and the updated range reaches Thai showrooms at the end of October.
Cartell Assessment
A 25 percent lift in power and torque is exactly what the D-Max needed to keep pace with the new wave of hybrid and high-output diesel utes. Buyers here have been asking for more grunt, and a bi-turbo 2.2 answers that without jumping to a bigger, thirstier engine.
AU Outlook
Isuzu has not confirmed Australian timing or pricing for the bi-turbo yet, and local D-Max and MU-X models continue with the 120kW 2.2 litre for now. Given Australia is a core market, an update here looks a matter of when, not if.
