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Isuzu showcases Global D-MAX with ‘Metal-to-the-Pedal Challenge’

10/23/2007

Isuzu Philippines Corp. held the “Isuzu Global D-MAX Metal-to-the-Pedal Challenge” on Oct. 8 at the Tagaytay Highlands as part of its effort to continuously promote the hardworking pick-up. The event comprised of two main activities for its media participants: the Global D-MAX ride and the mountain bike competition. The day was capped with a special sneak preview of the Global D-MAX 4x4 model.

Known for its advocacies on tourism and the environment, IPC once again veered from the usual fare of vehicle test drive by incorporating a mountain bike challenge into the event. The diesel expert wanted to show the public that the award-winning and best-selling Global D-MAX is not just for commercial or business use, but also for lifestyle and youthful activities. This is also part of Isuzu’s strategy to also aim the Global D-MAX at a younger market.

Speaking before the press, IPC president Keiji Takeda pointed out the Filipino market’s relationship with the D-MAX. “People at Isuzu would like to show off that the D-MAX is the leading pick-up in Thailand, which is the second largest pick-up market in the world,” he said. “But we at IPC would like to point out that the D-MAX is the favorite of Filipino pick-up users. I believe Filipinos have continuously trusted the D-MAX for its power, durability, reliability and fuel-efficiency.”

Takeda was referring not only to the D-MAX’s overwhelming popularity in Thailand, in which it has already sold more than 500,000 units in just a little over three years, but also to the many recognitions bestowed by Filipinos upon it, including three consecutive years of being “Pick-up of the Year” in the Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards.

Earlier this year, IPC introduced the Global D-MAX, which is now powered by a 3-liter 4JJ1 I-TEQ common-rail direct-injection diesel engine with turbo intercooler that produces a maximum output of 146ps at 3,800rpm and a maximum torque of 294 Newton-meters at 1,400rpm to 3,400rpm. It also has a new six-hole grill design and a height increase of 25 millimeters.

During its launch, the Global D-MAX was initially available only in 4x2 version, but with three variants: the LT base model, the LX mid-range model and the LS high-end model. The LX and the LS have the above-mentioned CRDi diesel engine, while the LT has the 2.5-liter 4JA1-L direct-injection diesel engine.

The LS and the LX boast torsion bar springs and stabilizer bar for front suspension; Flex Ride semi-elliptical leaf springs; 16-inch aluminum wheels; black leather steering wheel; new chrome rear bumper and side stepboard design; new crystal lens rear combination lamp; projector-type headlamps; Optitron-type instrument panel; six audio speakers; sports jersey/fabric combination for the seats; keyless entry; power and central door locks; power windows; and power side mirrors.

The high-end LS also features a Pioneer in-dash CD/MP3 player with USB and iPod connectivity, dual airbags and antilock brakes.

At the “Isuzu Global D-MAX Metal-to-the-Pedal Challenge,” the participants were shown the much-awaited 4x4 version of the Global D-MAX. To be officially launched soon, the Global D-MAX 4x4 adds off-road versatility to all the value-for-money features found on the 4x2 model.