It’s possible that the 2025 Isuzu D-Max ute and its SUV sibling, the MU-X, will receive a 2. 2-liter turbodiesel engine with mild hybrid assist as part of their first midlife upgrade.
According to a report by Thailand’s flagship magazine, Isuzu plans to introduce the new 2. 2-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine in the D-Max from 2025, with a 48-volt hybrid formula, along with the MU. -X that will be continued.
The new 2. 2-litre engine evolved from the 1. 9-litre turbodiesel engine, introduced at Australia’s D-Max Diversity in January 2022. As reported in December 2023, the MU-X will also get the 1. 9-liter engine in January 2023. 2024.
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It’s not yet clear at this point if the 2. 2-liter mild hybrid engine will upgrade the 1. 9-liter or 3. 0-liter engines in the Isuzu Ute lineup, or if it will be presented to buyers as a third option in its models.
In Australia, the entry-level 1. 9-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine produces 110 kW and 350 Nm, while the 3. 0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine produces 140 kW and 450 Nm.
According to the report, the 2. 2-liter engine will use the mild hybrid formula to reduce turbo lag on takeoff, as well as providing additional functions for short periods, such as accelerating on climbs or overtaking.
MORE: Why the new Toyota HiLux Mild Hybrid doesn’t qualify as a hybrid
The new powertrain may simply be a reaction to the local launch of the Toyota HiLux mild hybrid in 2024, while Ford is expected to offer a plug-in hybrid Ranger from 2025. Mitsubishi also has the idea of launching its own hybrid edition of the upcoming all-in-one. New Triton Ute.
As with the HiLux, the report states that Isuzu’s mild hybrid formula will consist of an electric motor attached to an engine belt, which will also act as a starter and generator.
Isuzu will launch its first electric vehicle in Norway in 2025, followed by the Thai (and, in all likelihood, Australian) markets, but it may only take until 2027 before it goes on sale locally.
Journalist
Ben Zachariah is an experienced Melbourne automotive and journalist, who has worked in the automotive industry for more than two decades. Ben began writing professionally over 15 years ago and was a former interstate truck driver. He completed his MBA in Finance in early 2021 and is considered an expert in investing in vintage vehicles.