New Models
New Models

Isuzu D-Max ute and MU-X 4WD could get hybrid option, more power

Although Isuzu has just launched its new-generation ute and four-wheel-drive over the past 12 months, a hybrid option and a more powerful diesel variant are under consideration.


Isuzu Ute Australia says it is considering a more powerful Isuzu D-Max ute and Isuzu MU-X four-wheel-drive – as well as the option of hybrid technology in the future.

Executives for the company said while it was too soon to disclose any technical details or likely arrival timing, they indicated Isuzu is investigating the addition of a more powerful flagship in the D-Max ute range – and hybrid tech for the MU-X four-wheel-drive.

Given that both vehicles are largely twins under the skin and share core components and engines, it’s possible the Isuzu D-Max ute and MU-X could both gain a more powerful diesel variant and the option of hybrid tech.

“We cannot talk about the future model, but basically what we can say is that Isuzu … has technology especially in the small truck for the electric vehicle and also some of the hybrids,” Koichiro Yoshida, the sales and marketing director for Isuzu Ute Australia, told a media conference for the 2022 Isuzu MU-X.

“So we are looking for the demand in Australia of when or how, if there is demand, and whether it’s hybrid or not,” said Mr Yoshida.

“Depending on that demand, we need to study to introduce such a model. But at this moment we cannot talk about the future model.”

When asked about a possible 150kW/500Nm version of the 3.0-litre turbo diesel (up from the current output of 140kW/450Nm) for a new “hero” model in the D-Max range, Takeshi Imanari, the deputy general manager of product planning said:

“We can't talk about future model plans. However we understand some competitors are offering such higher-output models,” said Mr Imanari.

“We will keep watching Australian customer demand and if we can find demand to develop or to introduce ... we will do it for the Australian customer.”

The last word on the topic of a hybrid option or a more powerful flagship version of the Isuzu D-Max was delivered by Hiroyasu Sato, the managing director of Isuzu Ute Australia.

“As previously mentioned … we are not in a position to comment about future products including powertrain,” said Mr Sato.

“What we can say at this stage is that Isuzu is researching and developing alternative powertrains to be prepared for the future, but at this stage we believe (the current engine) will satisfy customers.”   

MORE:Isuzu Showroom
MORE:Isuzu News
MORE:Isuzu Reviews
MORE:Isuzu D-MAX Showroom
MORE:Isuzu D-MAX News
MORE:Isuzu D-MAX Reviews
MORE:Search Used Isuzu D-MAX Cars for Sale
MORE:Search Used Isuzu Cars for Sale
MORE:Isuzu Showroom
MORE:Isuzu News
MORE:Isuzu Reviews
MORE:Isuzu D-MAX Showroom
MORE:Isuzu D-MAX News
MORE:Isuzu D-MAX Reviews
MORE:Search Used Isuzu D-MAX Cars for Sale
MORE:Search Used Isuzu Cars for Sale
Joshua Dowling

Joshua Dowling has been a motoring journalist for more than 20 years, spending most of that time working for The Sydney Morning Herald (as motoring editor and one of the early members of the Drive team) and News Corp Australia. He joined CarAdvice / Drive in 2018, and has been a World Car of the Year judge for more than 10 years.

Read more about Joshua DowlingLinkIcon
Chat with us!







Chat with Agent