Introducing China’s discounted Isuzu D-Max: The Qingling Taga Daka H
Want a half-price D-Max? The Qingling Taga Daka H is just that, but you can't get one here.
The 2021 Isuzu D-Max has been enjoying strong sales since the all-new ute was introduced onto the market in 2020. But despite its success, the D-Max it replaced is still alive and well in overseas markets.
Earlier this year, Isuzu's Chinese partner Qingling introduced the Taga Daka H – a redesigned and re-engineered dual-cab ute based on the previous-generation D-Max.
Buyers get a choice of a 172kW/310Nm 1.8-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder or a 107kW/310Nm 3.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder – the latter sourced from Isuzu – and both matched with a five-speed manual transmission.
The interior has been heavily revised in the new Taga Daka H, with a 10.0-inch 'floating' infotainment screen giving occupants Apple CarPlay and Baidu CarLife capability, while the driver gets a digital instrument cluster and keyless start.
The Qingling is offered in two different body styles: a standard model which mirrors the previous D-Max, and a 'Long Body', which fits an 1800mm tub to the back – offering the benefits of a dual-cab body, with the load capabilities of a single-cab.
While the cheapest (current shape) dual-cab Isuzu D-Max offered in Australia is priced from AU$42,900 plus on-road costs, Chinese buyers can pick up a Qingling Taga Daka H from 104,200 CNY – or roughly AU$21,000. Don't hold your breath for a local launch though, as the Taga Daka H is only offered in China.
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