Isuzu South Africa says the updated D-Max bakkie is coming soon to our market.
Image: Isuzu
Unveiled in 2023, the facelifted current-generation Isuzu D-Max is set to land in South Africa “soon,” according to the Japanese automaker on its local website. On a dedicated page where customers can register to stay updated on the launch, the firm stresses that the revised third generation “is not just a facelift,” with the updates indicating “more than a new look.” The company describes the upcoming version as “a smarter, tougher drive that stays true to its roots, while moving forward where it counts” – an “evolution of proven capability.”
As a reminder, in September 2025 Isuzu announced the introduction of a 120 kW/400 Nm 2.2-litre, four-cylinder turbo diesel engine option – the larger unit replacing the 110 kW/350 Nm 1.9-litre turbodiesel in select overseas markets – to its D-Max and MU-X lineups. While this more powerful diesel is available in Australia, a market that largely mirrors ours, Isuzu SA has said our market won’t receive the 2.2-litre engine in the foreseeable future.
As such, the upcoming updated local D-Max lineup will most likely keep the same turbodiesel options offered with the outgoing, pre-facelifted third generation in SA. This includes the 1.9-litre and the proven 3.0-litre four-cylinder mill – the latter delivering 140 kW and 450 Nm, available from 3 600 and a low 1 600 r/min, respectively. Both the 1.9- and 3.0-litre engines come with the choice of 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains, paired with either six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions.
So, what’s new on the refreshed D-Max? First up, the redesigned front fascia features sharper headlamps, along with fresh LED daytime-running lights, and an updated grille. At the rear, the taillamps have also been revised. Inside, the interior gets a larger touchscreen infotainment system.
