The Isuzu D-Max has gained mild-hybrid assistance to rival V-Active versions of the Toyota HiLux, but the technology isn’t yet confirmed for Australia.
In March, Isuzu unveiled the D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV (mild-hybrid electric vehicle), though the 48-volt dual-cab wasn’t yet confirmed for a production run.
That’s now changed, with Isuzu’s Thailand division – which produces the D-Max – officially unveiling the mildly electrified ute.
Despite being one of Australia’s top five best-selling vehicles, the brand’s Australian arm is yet to lock in the D-Max MHEV locally.
“We are excited that Isuzu continues to innovate and develop diesel powertrains to suit global markets,” an Isuzu Ute Australia spokesperson told CarExpert.
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“However, at this point in time, we are unable to comment on future powertrain developments for our local market, but are continuing to monitor its requirements including the reception of hybrid and BEVs to ensure that we continue to provide a product mix to meet Australian consumer needs.”
While most D-Maxs sold in Australia are powered by a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and mated to a four-wheel drive system, the mild-hybrid technology is only available on the less potent rear-wheel drive 1.9-litre variants.
Unlike a traditional hybrid system, it doesn’t help drive the wheels, instead taking load off ancillary features – similar to the technology in Toyota’s V-Active mild-hybrid HiLuxes.
Isuzu hasn’t detailed the outputs of the mild-hybrid D-Max, however if it’s anything like the HiLux V-Active, it’ll have unchanged power and torque figures, meaning its 110kW and 350Nm claims remain.
Its battery holds up to 370Wh – or about one-third of what you’ll find providing assistance to a Toyota Corolla hybrid – and 8.4Ah, almost double the amperage of the HiLux V-Active.
Compared to the standard D-Max upon which it’s based, the mild-hybrid version incurs a 10,000 Baht (circa $450) premium – almost identical to the $770 price increase to certain HiLux dual-cabs with V-Active.
Otherwise there are no additional changes compared to the D-Max, apart from a handful of MHEV badges on the exterior.
Isuzu hasn’t announced plans to trial a similar mild-hybrid system on its better-selling 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine which packs 140kW and 450Nm.
While the D-Max MHEV is as yet unconfirmed for Australia, a fully electric version of the popular ute has been locked in for a local launch.
The D-Max EV concept made its public debut in March alongside the mild-hybrid ute, and is powered by dual electric motors with combined outputs of 130kW and 325Nm, plus a 66.9kWh battery.
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