The local utiltiies sales which has grown by 61% over the last five years, little wonder Isuzu is looking for a piece of the action.
The new D-MAX range includes 4x2 and 4x4 variants in ute and cab-chassis configurations, all powered by Isuzu’s reputed 3.0-litre common-rail turbo-diesel, with up to 360Nm of torque and class-leading fuel economy.
“As a new entrant in the crowded Australian car market, Isuzu UTE is looking to its presence at AIMS to launch our exciting and economical new D-MAX Ute range to the public of greater Sydney,” said IUA’s managing director Hitoshi Kono.
The D-MAX is the latest version of the Isuzu-designed one-tonne ute range that has been sold in Australia as the Holden Rodeo for the last 28 years.
Isuzu owns the Rodeo name and IUA decided to adopt the worldwide D-MAX nameplate to link more closely with the reputation for excellence of Isuzu’s light commercial vehicles.
As well as being one of the world’s leading diesel engine manufacturers, Isuzu Motors is the world’s top-selling light-to-heavy truck brand, with a worldwide vehicle shipment volume totalling 642,000 last year.
Isuzu D-MAX will be among more than 40 concepts and all-new or updated vehicle models which will be unveiled at the Australian International Motor Show on October 9.