Can the Isuzu D-Max regain its number one spot in Nigeria?

This is the question many Motoring Journalists and Transporters are asking. But only time will tell. Many years ago, the Isuzu Tiger, as the D-Max pick-up was then known was the toast of many transporters and banks who used it as bullion vans and for other purposes.

The Isuzu Tiger was so popular to the extent that people referred to pickups in this category as Isuzu Tiger.

This was before the Toyota Hilux took over the stage as the number one pickup in this segment. Since then, the Hilux never looked back despite the stiff competition from challengers like the Ford Ranger, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen pickups and as well as the various Chinese-made pickups.

But Isuzu seems to have woken up from its slumber to wrestle the number one spot from the Hilux with the introduction of the all-new Isuzu D-Max pickup which was unveiled recently by one of Isuzu’s representatives in Nigeria, Koncept Auto Centre, at a ceremony in Lagos. To demonstrates its determination to challenge the reigning champion, Koncept Auto Centre brought Isuzu bigwigs from Japan and South Africa led by the Executive Vice President of the company, Mr. Takanobu Furuta from Japan and the President and Managing Director of General Motors, Africa, Mr. Mario Spangenberg who promised to take the Isuzu brand in Nigeria to the next level.

The two senior management staff of Isuzu noted that the all-new D-Max pickup has what it takes to beat any contender in its segment.

They are banking on Isuzu’s track record in Africa and around the globe to regain the number one spot. According to them, the D-Max’s superior performance with exceptional fuel efficiency stands it out among the counterparts.

The D-Max comes in 2.5 litre and 3.0 litre diesel engines as well as a DOHC multi-valve 2.4 litre gasoline engine. This enables the D-Max to match every need and requirement of the owner. Designed like a typical sport utility vehicle, the D-Max come in four wheel drive and two wheel drive. It is also available in single and double cabins. The passenger car-like interior guarantees comfort like a high-end sedan, with generous leg-room.

The interior comes in with a modern twin cockpit design to enhance the passenger car-like look and feel and delivers exceptional levels of comfort, easy use functionality and technology.

The all-new D-Max according to Isuzu is the next step forward in the pickup specialists’ remarkable evolution – a continuation of its iconic heritage of innovation, toughness, durability, functionality and appeal.

It’s standout features include:

•Bigger and bolder size for a more commanding presence on and off road, as well as increased comfort, better side quality and improved handling.

•Passenger car-like interior with a modern twin cockpit concept design and excellent head, shoulder and legroom.

•Increased occupant safety with higher levels of active and passive safety features

•Improved four wheel drive controls that are easier to use

•All new suspension and all-new chassis for improved ride and handling as well as increased comfort.