Ghandhara Industries Limited (GIL) is gearing towards introducing the Isuzu D-MAX range of pickups that would rival the Toyota Hilux range in Pakistan. GIL has made a Technical Assistance Agreement with Isuzu Motors Limited (Thailand) to assemble and sell the Isuzu D-MAX pick up in our country.
Related: 2018 Toyota Hilux Revo Launched with New 2.8L Engine
The Isuzu D-MAX will create an ambience of competition as the segment was enjoyed by the Toyota Hilux till now. According to our sources, the D-MAX will offer a lot more than the Toyota rival and will be priced competitively too. Below is what you can expect from the Isuzu D-MAX in Pakistan.
The Engines:
The D-MAX in Pakistan will be available with a choice of 2 engines. Both the engines will be diesel powered units including a 2.5 liter 4JK1-TC TCX and 3.0 liter 4JJ1-TCX. Here is a brief comparison with the new 2.8 liter 1GD-FTV Hilux engine.
| Engine | Bore(mm) | Stroke(mm) | Displacement | Power Rating | Torque |
| Hilux 1GD-FTV | 92.0 | 103.6 | 2.8 liters | 177 PS | 450 Nm @1400-2600rpm |
| D-MAX 4JK1-TCX | 95.4 | 87.4 | 2.5 liters | 136 PS | 320 Nm @1800-2800rpm |
| D-MAX 4JJ1-TCX | 95.4 | 104.9 | 3.0 liters | 163 PS | 380 Nm @1800-2200rpm |
The Dimensions:
Dimension wise the D-MAX is similar to the Hilux, but it’s a tad shorter in height and length but is slightly wider and has a marginally longer wheelbase.
| Isuzu D-MAX | Toyota Hilux | |
| Length (mm) | 5295 | 5335 |
| Width (mm) | 1860 | 1855 |
| Height (mm) | 1795 | 1815 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 3095 | 3085 |
The Key Features:
According to our information, the D-MAX will be available with Push-start, Airbags, Traction control with ESC, Projector headlamps with LED DRLs, Isuzu premium infotainment system with 8-inch screen and 8 speakers, and will offer high value 4×4 accessories including the bull bar etc.
Body & Transmission:
The Isuzu D-MAX will be available in single and double cabin with standard and premium trim options available with manual as well as automatic transmission. The D-MAX will reportedly offer more than the Toyota Hilux and it’s flagship Revo variant.
Expected Launch:
GIL will formally launch the Isuzu D-MAX pickup range in Pakistan by mid 2018.
Related: Upcoming Competitors of Toyota Hilux in Pakistan
Expected Price:
Official prices are yet to be announced but considering the ongoing Rupee devaluation against Dollar, car & fuel prices in Pakistan are likely to go up. As per the information received so far the D-MAX price will range between PKR 25 lac to PKR 45 lac depending on the engine & configurations.
The initial batch of the Isuzu D-MAX pickups will be imported while the company intends to sell the D-MAX at a discounted price initially in order to capture greater market share which will be a good move. We will have to wait and see if the D-MAX is able to dethrone the Toyota Hilux, stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more information on the Isuzu D-MAX.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
