Tag Archives: pickup truck

NEWS

Jetour unveils F700 pickup truck prototype secretly in Shanghai

At 2025 Auto Shanghai, Jetour showcased a futuristic full-size pickup truck concept model, the F700.

Why do we say it’s futuristic?

The F700 Concept features ‘coach’ style doors similar to those found on luxury models like Rolls-Royce, or suicide doors without a B-pillar in the middle.

Not many people know that Jetour actually displayed a prototype model of the F700, which closely resembles the actual production version at the Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao hotel, which served as the accommodation for global media.

Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos of the impressive pickup truck model, as all recording devices and smartphones had to be left outside the giant box.

What we can conclude is that the F700 is essentially the G700 in a pickup version, with a boxy body design and a front structure that is almost the same.

The F700 shares the same platform as the G700 ladder-frame SUV.

According to the specification sheet placed next to the model, the F700 is powered by a 2.0-liter TGDI hybrid engine mated to a hybrid transmission (DHT) and two electric motors (one for each axle).

The F700 is also equipped with a 34.13 kWh battery pack.

The pickup truck chassis is supported by double-wishbone suspension both front and rear, as well as a four-wheel drive (4WD) system.

With the addition of a bed at the rear, the F700 has larger dimensions, measuring 5,495 mm in length compared to the G700’s 5.1 meters, with a wheelbase of 3,350 mm.

So far, the F700 model is still in the development stage, with the actual production version likely to be revealed to the public in the near future.

 

Jetour G700

NEWS

Isuzu D-Max 4×2 1.9L MT Low Ride officially launched, priced from RM92k

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Isuzu Malaysia today officially announced the arrival of a new, more affordable variant of the Isuzu D-Max pickup truck: the D-Max Double Cab 1.9L 4×2 Manual Low Ride.

Priced at RM92,199.20 (on-the-road excluding insurance), the D-Max Low Ride is aimed at providing a more cost-effective and efficient transportation solution for business operators, service providers, or companies with large vehicle fleets.

The D-Max Low Ride is powered by a durable and fuel-efficient 1.9-liter diesel engine (code RZ4E-TC) that produces 150 PS and 350 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

Compared to the existing D-Max, the D-Max Low Ride features a lower ground clearance, providing a cargo loading height of just 780 mm from the ground, thus facilitating the loading and unloading of goods.

At the same time, the cargo space in the back can accommodate a payload of up to 930 kg.

Standard features of the D-Max Low Ride include Splash White color, halogen headlights, fog lights that also serve as daytime running lights (DRLs), 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/70R16 tires, power windows, and electrically controlled side mirrors.

The cabin space offers fabric-upholstered seating, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, analog gauge cluster combined with a 3.5-inch MID screen, a 12V socket, and a single DIN audio player with support for various music codecs.

In terms of safety, the D-Max Low Ride includes features such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control system (TCS), hill start assist (HSA), and downhill control (HDC).

The Isuzu D-Max Low Ride is now available at all official Isuzu showrooms nationwide and comes with a five-year warranty or a mileage limit of 150,000 km.

NEWS

Isuzu D-Max Low-Ride 4×2 MT now open for booking, starting from RM92k

Isuzu Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the cost-effective pickup truck model, the Isuzu D-Max Low-Ride 4×2 MT for the Malaysian market.

The D-Max Low-Ride is aimed at users who need a reliable and cost-efficient commercial vehicle while also providing ample space.

This Low-Ride model shares the same 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC engine used in the D-Max 1.9-liter Single Cab, producing 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and a torque of 350 Nm at 1,800-2,600 rpm.

The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, ensuring lower ownership and operating costs.

One unique feature of this model is that the height of the cargo area is only 78 cm from the ground, which facilitates loading and unloading items.

In addition to seating up to five passengers at a time, the cabin space of the D-Max Low-Ride is equipped with fabric-covered seats, a single DIN entertainment system, a steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustments, a central locking system, and electronically adjustable side mirrors.

Safety aspects are also a priority, as this model is equipped with systems such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), brake assistance (BA), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control system (TCS), hill start assist (HSA), hill descent control (HDC), in addition to dual airbags, Brake Override System (BOS), emergency stop lights, and reverse sensors.

Orders for the Isuzu D-Max Low-Ride pickup truck are now open through all authorized Isuzu dealers nationwide.

Only one color is available, namely Splash White, with the starting selling price set at RM92,199.20 on the road, excluding insurance.

Each purchase is accompanied by a warranty of five years or a mileage limit of 150,000 km.

NEWS

Mitsubishi Triton wins best design award at 2024-2025 Japan COTY

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has announced that the Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck has won the Best Design award at the Japan Car of the Year (COTY) 2024-2025.

This marks the second time Mitsubishi Motors has received this award, following a similar achievement with the Mitsubishi Delica kei car in the 2023-2024 JCOTY edition.

The judges unanimously selected the Mitsubishi Triton for its captivating image as a four-wheel drive (4WD) model, encouraging customers to explore a new lifestyle.

2025 Mitsubishi Triton: Five new things we found – First Drive

The sixth-generation Mitsubishi Triton was successfully launched in the Malaysian market last October, with five variants available, including a single cab variant.

This all-new Triton not only boasts a ‘Beast Mode’ image but also benefits from a new platform, engine, suspension setup, and a cabin design that emphasizes both modern aesthetics and practicality.

For more details about the Mitsubishi Triton, you can read the link below:

2025 Mitsubishi Triton, new platform & engine, five variants, starting from RM102k

 

TEST DRIVE

Three weaknesses we found on 2025 Mitsubishi Triton

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Honestly, I’m not someone who enjoys driving pickup trucks, but my recent experience with the 2025 Mitsubishi Triton is still fresh in my memory.

Apart from its more refreshed appearance, the new Triton now features a new platform and engine, a tuned suspension system, and a more user-friendly cabin layout.

In short, this new Triton offers impressive on-road performance, while still being capable of tackling tougher and more challenging off-road routes.

However, in my opinion, there are three shortcomings that Mitsubishi should address to make the Triton a more valuable offering, justifying every ringgit spent.

 

1. Absence of a 360-Degree Camera

Did you know that the 2025 Triton uses a new platform that provides larger dimensions—longer, wider, and taller?

This means that this sixth-generation pickup truck is the largest model ever produced in Triton’s history.

Unfortunately, this increase in size does not come with a 360-degree (or 540-degree) camera feature.

The lack of this feature makes driving a bit challenging, especially when navigating narrow areas or winding through overgrown paths that lack clear routes.

The fairly high front bonnet structure at times makes me feel less confident when driving in tight spaces.

 

2. Subtle Steering Vibrations Can Make Driving Fatiguing

Based on my experience, I found that the steering response of the new Triton is very easy to handle, even though the Triton has grown in size.

The Lane Change Warning (LCA) feature enhances driving safety, as it only vibrates when the driver is detected not using the turn signal to change lanes.

The absence of Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) isn’t a significant issue. However, what I noticed is that the steering system of the Triton produces subtle vibrations while driving on the highway.

For short-distance driving, this slight vibration is not a problem, but it can become tiring for the driver over longer distances.

 

3. Rear Headrest Structure Is Not Passenger (or Driver) Friendly

When I switched to the rear seats, I found that the rear bench of the 2025 Triton offers a comfortable reclining angle that isn’t too upright.

However, this comfort is hindered by the headrest structure, which does not adequately support a comfortable head position.

If you observe, the second-row passenger headrests are tilted forward. Therefore, rear passengers may feel slightly more upright than usual.

The position of the center headrest can also obstruct the rearview mirror’s field of vision, so it’s advisable to remove that headrest if your pickup truck isn’t carrying extra passengers.

You can read our findings and review of the 2025 Mitsubishi Triton at the link below:

2025 Mitsubishi Triton: Five new things we found – First Drive
NEWS

Chery KP11 to compete with Ranger, Triton, Hilux, launching in 2025

The mid-size pickup truck segment is set to be enlivened by the arrival of a new contender from mainland China.

In conjunction with the Chery International User Summit held in Wuhu, Chery showcased a prototype model of the pickup truck known by the codename KP11.

At first glance, one might assume that the Chery KP11 is a model infused with various design elements from well-known pickup trucks.

For example, the front end features layered main headlight designs with L-shaped daytime running lights, reminiscent of the new Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck.

Meanwhile, Ford pickup truck elements can be observed through the front grille structure with a prominent CHERY wordmark, the use of blue color, rear lights, and the presence of side step bars on the rear bumper.

To further accentuate the versatile character of this pickup truck, Chery has incorporated various camping accessories, including a rack on the rear bed and a rooftop tent.

According to local media reports, the Chery KP11 is expected to be offered with a choice of a 2.4-liter turbo petrol engine with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) configuration or a range extender version.

The Chery KP11 is set to be launched in the Asia-Pacific, South America, and Europe markets next year, joining the already competitive pickup truck segment populated with models such as the Ford Ranger, GWM Cannon, Mazda BT-50, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Navara, and Toyota Hilux.

EV, NEWS

2025 JAC T9 2.0L diesel and BEV versions previewed, price starts below RM120k, launch in Jan 2025

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Evolvelectric Motors, the official distributor of JAC Motors vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the mid-size pickup truck model 2025 JAC T9 today.

For the local market, there are two powertrain options offered, namely the 2.0L turbo diesel version and the electric (BEV) variant.

Both versions of the T9 have the same dimensional size, measuring 5,330 mm in length, 1,965 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height with a wheelbase of 3,110 mm.

The ground clearance is as high as 210 mm, with an approach angle of 27 degrees, departure angle of 23 degrees, and the capability to ford water up to 800 mm in depth.

The JAC T9 Grand-ES features a 2.0-liter turbo diesel inline-four engine with 167 hp @ 3,600 rpm and torque of 410 Nm @ 1,500-2,500 rpm, paired with a four-wheel-drive (4WD) system and an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Meanwhile, the JAC T9 Grand-BEV is equipped with a combination of two electric motors.

The front axle motor produces 94 hp/176 Nm while the rear axle motor generates 215 hp/342 Nm, with a combined power reaching 516 Nm.

The CATL LFP battery pack with an 88 kWh capacity allows a range of up to 340 km (WLTP data).

The JAC T9 Grand-BEV also supports 11 kW AC charging (15-100% charge in 6 hours 50 minutes), as well as fast DC charging at 88 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 30-80% in just 35 minutes.

Externally, the JAC T9 comes with features such as LED headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL), LED taillights, side step boards, rear sports bar, and roof rails.

Moving into the cabin, the JAC T9 offers amenities such as a 7-inch cluster screen, a 10.4-inch center screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, six-way power-adjustable front seats, ambient lighting system, wireless device charging, and six speakers.

For the rear passengers, there are second-row air vents, additional USB ports, and power sockets for electronic devices.

Loaded safety features include seven airbags, a 360-degree surround-view camera, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning (LDW), lane-keep assist (LKS), adaptive cruise control (ACC), and traffic sign recognition system (TSRS).

It’s no surprise that both versions of the JAC T9 pickup truck received a five-star rating in the Australasian NCAP (ANCAP) new vehicle assessment.

The estimated selling price for the JAC T9 2025 pickup truck starts below RM120,000 for the diesel version, valid until December 31 for the first 300 customers, with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Meanwhile, the JAC T9 Grand-BEV is priced below RM200,000 and comes with a six-year manufacturer’s warranty or a limit of 200,000 km. It is valid for the first 100 customers who book before December 31, 2024.

 

JAC T9 Grand-ES

 

JAC T9 Grand-BEV

NEWS

2025 Mitsubishi Triton, new platform & engine, five variants, starting from RM102k

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has officially launched the new generation pickup truck 2025 Mitsubishi Triton, for the local market.

It will be available in five main variants, consisting of four double-cab variants and one single-cab variant designed for heavy-duty work.

Utilizing a completely new, more robust platform, the 2025 Triton offers larger dimensions, with a length of 5,360 mm (+55 mm), width of 1,930 mm (+115 mm), height of 1,815 mm (+35 mm), and a wheelbase of 3,130 mm (+130 mm).

As standard, the Triton comes with double wishbone suspension in the front, followed by leaf spring suspension at the rear aided by tuning for improved handling and comfort.

In addition to the new platform, the Triton also comes with the new MIVEC 4N16 diesel engine, producing 181 hp @ 3,500 rpm and a torque of 430 Nm @ 2,250-2,500 rpm.

The top variant, Athlete, features a two-stage turbo with Euro 5 standard, delivering high power at 204 PS @ 3,500 rpm and a torque of 470 Nm @ 1,500-2,750 rpm.

Moreover, the Athlete variant also includes an electronic power steering (EPS) system and the 4WD Super Select II system, offering up to seven driving modes (Normal, Eco, Gravel, Sand, Mud, Snow, Rock).

Only the two lowest variants (including the single-cab variant) are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the rest come with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The new Triton now features an upgraded Dynamic Shield design language with a “Beast Mode” approach.

Exterior features include LED headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL), 18-inch rims (16 inches for lower variants), and T-shaped graphics on the rear lights.

The cabin uses a more modern Horizontal Axis concept, showcasing analog meters, a seven-inch LCD screen, a central touch screen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support, six climate control speakers, rear row air vents, premium leatherette-wrapped seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and leather-wrapped gear knob.

The base variant is equipped with a basic audio system that comes with 4 speakers, fabric seats, and urethane-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.

In terms of safety, the Mitsubishi Triton comes with up to seven airbags, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist, Active Stability Control, Hill Descent Control (HDC), as well as advanced safety features such as Forward Collision Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Warning (BSM), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and High Beam Assistance (AHB).

For the local market, the selling prices of the Mitsubishi Triton 2025 are as follows:
Triton Single Cab (MT) – RM101,980
Triton GL (MT) – RM114,980
Triton GL (AT) – RM116,980
Triton Premium (AT) – RM145,980
Triton Athlete (AT) – RM165,980

As standard, the 2025 Mitsubishi Triton comes with a manufacturer’s warranty for five years or a mileage limit of 200,000 km (whichever comes first), except for the Mitsubishi Triton Athlete, which comes with an unlimited mileage warranty for five years, valid for registration until only December 31, 2024.

 

2025 Mitsubishi Triton Athlete

2025 Mitsubishi Triton Single Cab

NEWS

2024 Mitsubishi Triton now open for booking, five variants, priced from RM102,000

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Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) today officially opened bookings for the sixth generation of the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck model.

Offered in five variants, the estimated selling price of the Mitsubishi Triton starts from RM102,000 for the Single Cab variant, and from RM170,000 for the Triton Athlete variant.

The all-new Mitsubishi Triton brings significant exterior and interior changes.


It now features the new Beast Mode design language, a new 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine (4N16) capable of generating 184 PS/350 Nm of torque (Single Cab), or as high as 204 PS/470 Nm for the highest variant.

The new Triton also comes with a newly developed mega frame chassis offering durability and robustness, as well as a larger body size compared to the previous model.

The new suspension system now offers enhanced handling stability and driving comfort, accompanied by the Super Select-II four-wheel drive system and seven driving modes.

The safety aspect of this pickup truck has been enhanced with Active Yaw Control function, and the most advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).


It also offers modern conveniences such as wireless device charging slot, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as various storage spaces available inside the cabin.

Finally, for those in need of a workhorse, the Triton Single Cab offers the largest cargo deck in its segment, with dimensions of 2,340 mm width and 1,580 mm length.

For the first 500 customers who book the Mitsubishi Triton 2024 pickup truck, they will receive a 60-liter foldable storage box valued at RM450.

NEWS

Kia Tasman takes on the formidable Al Qudra desert

You may already know that Kia is busy developing its very first pickup truck, known as the Tasman.

In the latest development, the automaker announced that the Tasman is currently undergoing its next phase of testing in the deserts of Al Qudra, United Arab Emirates.

Previously, the ladder-frame pickup truck had undergone various tests, including off-road driving in the rugged Alabama Hills, California, water wading, and on-track driving to evaluate its handling, chassis strength, and towing capabilities.

This time, a pre-production prototype of the Tasman was flown to the Al Qudra desert to ensure it can handle extreme hot weather and challenging driving conditions.

According to Kia, the pickup truck has been subjected to at least 1,777 different types of tests, with over 18,000 rounds of tests have been completed so far.

No technical details have been announced yet. However, reports indicate that the Tasman is likely to feature a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine similar to the one used in the Sorento, and could be offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive guises.

Additionally, the Tasman is said to boast a maximum payload of up to 998 kg and a towing capacity of nearly 3.5 tonnes.

Exactly where the Tasman will be sold is still unknown, but reports from South Korea suggest it will likely be offered in the Middle East, Africa, and Australia.

The Tasman is expected to make its global debut at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia, which will take place from October 29 to November 2.

EV, NEWS

Maxus e-Terron 9 announced for the European market, with a driving range of 430 km

Chinese automotive manufacturer Maxus has just launched its latest model, the electric pickup truck e-Terron 9, for the European market.

Unlike existing electric pickup trucks in the market, the Maxus e-Terron 9 features a semi-monocoque chassis construction that is quite unique.

It promises the advantages of both a unibody and body-on-frame construction within a single chassis.

The Maxus e-Terron 9 is powered by two electric motors that offer all-wheel drive, with a total power of 436 hp and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.8 seconds.

The truck offers several driving modes including Normal, Sand, Mud, and Custom, as well as an adjustable air suspension system.

Its 102 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack enables the truck to travel up to 430 km on a single full charge (WLTP data), in addition to supporting fast DC charging at 115 kW (20-80 percent in 40 minutes).

The Maxus e-Terron 9 features Vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, providing a 2.2 kW and 6.6 kW power outlet.

The exterior of the Maxus e-Terron 9 resembles well-known pickup truck models, such as the front end with C-shaped lighting units resembling the Ford F-150, and a side profile reminiscent of the Hummer EV.

As for the cabin interior, the Maxus e-Terron 9 features a minimalist dashboard design with a single panel housing dual screens, a two-spoke steering wheel, and two-tone leather upholstery.

There are up to 20 storage spaces for items, along with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with massage and ventilation functions.

The front seats can also be reclined flat to provide a resting space of 1,700 mm.

In terms of dimensions, the truck measures 5,500 mm in length, which is 140 mm longer than the Ford Ranger.

It is also capable of accommodating long cargoes up to 2,400 mm in the rear bed, thanks to the automatic tailgate and opening mid-gate feature.

Moreover, the Maxus e-Terron 9 can tow cargoes of up to 3,500 kg and has a payload capacity of around 620 kg.

In addition, it offers a front cargo space of 236 liters with an electrically powered frunk door.

The sales of the Maxus e-Terron 9 pickup truck in Europe are set to commence in the fourth quarter of this year.

NEWS

BYD Shark launched in Mexico with a starting price of RM250k

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BYD has officially introduced its first pickup truck, the Shark, in Mexico. BYD Chief of Americas Stella Li said Mexico was chosen due to the increasing demand for pickup trucks in the country.

It is interesting to note that the Shark was launched just hours after Joe Biden announced a tariff increase from 25% to 100% on EVs from China.

Reuters reported that BYD does not have any plans to sell the Shark in the United States.

As previously reported, the Shark uses a new plug-in hybrid powertrain known as the DMO (Dual-Mode Off-Road).

The PHEV powertrain features a combination of a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and two electric motors that generate a total power of 430 hp, allowing the Shark to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds.

The battery specifications are not disclosed, but this truck offers an electric driving range of up to 100 km (NEDC cycle) and a total driving range of 840 km. The fuel consumption rate is approximately 7.5 litres per 100 km.

Like the Leopard 5, the Shark is built on a ladder frame chassis. It measures 5,457 mm in length, 1,971 mm in width, 1,925 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,260 mm, making it larger than the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

The chassis is combined with an independent suspension system at the front and rear, which BYD claims can offer a balance between handling performance and comfort.

The Shark is a true and true pickup truck, so it boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg. The truck bed offers a cargo space of 1,450 litres with a payload limit of 835 kg. For off-road driving, there are three selectable modes: Sand, Mud, and Snow.

Inside, you will find several elements synonymous with the BYD brand, including a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

Additionally, it features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the “Hi BYD” voice command system, karaoke function (microphone sold separately), a 50W wireless charger, and a 12-inch head-up display.

The safety system includes six airbags and ADAS features such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Intelligent Navigation System (ICC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Rear Collision Warning (RCW), Rear Cross Collision Warning (RCTA), Rear Cross Collision Braking (RCTB), and more.

In Mexico, the Shark is available in two variants, namely the GL and GS. The selling price starts from 899,980 pesos (RM250,356) for the former and 969,800 pesos (RM269,777) for the latter.

NEWS

2024 Isuzu D-Max facelift now in Malaysia – new looks and tech, from RM99k

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THE facelifted version of the third generation Isuzu D-Max has been officially launched in Malaysia, bringing fresher looks and a host of new features and equipment.

The lineup of the pickup truck remains unchanged, comprising five variants as follows:

  • X-Terrain 3.0L 4X4 AT
  • Premium 1.9L 4X4 AT & 3.0L 4X4 AT
  • Auto Plus 1.9L 4X2 AT
  • Standard 1.9L 4X4 MT & 1.9L 4X4 AT
  • Single Cab 1.9L 4X4 MT & 3.0L 4X4 AT

Pricing starts from RM98,949.20 for the 1.9-litre Single Cab while the flagship X-Terrain is priced at RM157,938.40 on-the-road without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia.

 

The most noticeable changes in design include sharper Bi-LED headlights, bigger grille with a new honeycomb insert, and redesigned fog lamp housings. The turning signals are now integrated with the LED daytime running lights.

At the rear, you’ll spot newly designed taillights and a new tailgate that now includes a new handle with a keyhole, enabling the tailgate to be locked should a canopy or cover be fitted.

Wheels come in 18-inch size, in Tough Style design for the X-Terrain and Sporty Style design for the Premium. They are wrapped in 265/60 R18 all-terrain tyres.

As for exterior colours, Valencia Orange is replaced with the new Namibu Orange Mica, while Islay Grey, Onyx Black, and Dolomite White Pearl colors are still available.

Inside, the X-Terrain variant gains several new features seen usually in high-end SUVs. For example, the driver is greeted with welcome lights, door sill and footwell illumination upon opening the door.

The luxurious feel is enhanced further with leather upholstery on the seats and steering wheel, along with a Miura pattern on the door panels. Isuzu says Miura is inspired by a classic Japanese origami-inspired paralellogram design.

Additionally, the D-Max now comes equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen that provides access to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera, and Around View Monitor.

The pickup truck also comes with a 7-inch multi-info display, USB-C charging port, wireless charger, and an 8-speaker surround sound system.

The safety system is enhanced through the use of a fourth-generation stereo camera with a wider 120-degree field of view. The camera is also capable of increasing its forward detection distance from 120 meters to 150 meters.

Another new update is the Rear Cross Traffic Brake system. When the vehicle detects an on-coming vehicle while reversing, an audible and visual signal is given. It will proceed to apply the brakes should an imminent collision be anticipated.

The D-Max’s off-roading prowess is also enhanced with the new Rough Terrain Mode, which is standard on all Double Cab 4X4 models. The is able to detect the level of grip each wheel has and apportion the power from a spinning wheel to the wheel that has most grip. It can be used in all transmission modes – 2H, 4H or 4L.

The engine lineup remains unchanged. Like before, there’s the 4JJ3-TCX 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline-four, generating 190 PS and 450 Nm, and the RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre inline-four unit making 150 PS and 350 Nm.

NEWS

BYD Shark PHEV pickup truck to launch soon

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BYD recently announced that its first pickup truck will be called the Shark, making it the automaker’s latest model to be named after marine animals after the Dolphin, Seal, and Sea Lion.

Set to make its debut at the Beijing Motor Show, the Shark will reportedly feature BYD’s latest plug-in hybrid powertrain known as DMO (Dual-Mode Off-Road).

Details regarding the powertrain are scarce but according to reports, it may feature a combination of a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and two electric motors just like the Fang Cheng Bao 5.

In the Fang Cheng Bao 5, the ICE-eletric motor combo generates a total system output of 680 PS and 760 Nm. The off-road SUV is also said to offer an electric range of up to 125 km or up to 1,200 km in hybrid mode.

Apart from the PHEV version, there is a possibility that the Shark will also be offered in a full electric version somewhere in the future.

As far as design is concerned, recent leaked photos of the Shark show that the pickup truck has a front fascia resembling that of the Ford Ranger.

The cabin looks a tad watered down compared to other BYDs, featuring a digital instrument panel, central display, flat-bottom steering wheel, and a row of switches arranged adjacent to the gear lever on the center console.

Will the Shark swim its way to the Malaysian market? There is no official announcement yet, but BYD has previously stated that it plans to sell the pickup truck globally.

NEWS

Ford Ranger MS-RT is a Europe-exclusive, motorsport-inspired truck

THE Ford Ranger lineup for the European market has been further expanded with the introduction of a new sporty variant called the Ranger MS-RT.

The latest offering from Blue Oval is developed in collaboration with M-Sport (Ford’s partner in rally), but don’t expect it to come with any more power as upgrades are limited to aesthetics.

That being said, the Ranger MS-RT is guaranteed to turn heads with its motorsport-inspired styling. At the front, there’s a honeycomb grille and integrated splitter inspired by extreme Ranger racing trucks that compete in Asia.

The side profile appears lower thanks to sculpted side skirts, while the rear is adorned with an integrated diffuser. The rear tailgate comes with MS-RT graphics and a ducktail spoiler, which is complemented by a cab spoiler.

You may not realise, but the Ranger MS-RT is 82 mm wider than the standard version. The bulging fenders are matched with 21-inch diamond-cut rims wrapped in low-profile 275/45 tyres – the largest wheels ever to be offered on a Ranger.

The interior displays new seats that not only look sportier but also offer better support. They are upholstered in eco-leather and suede with distinctive MS-RT pattern and blue stitching.

Other features include a sports steering wheel with heating and a blue 12 o’clock marker, a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4 infotainment system, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, and Intelligent Speed Limiter.

Under the hood, there’s a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine making 240 PS and 600 Nm. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and the new e4WD all-wheel-drive system also found in other Ranger variants.

Despite not getting any additional power, the Ranger MS-RT promises better handling through new, firmer front dampers and retuned rear suspension. Its height has also been reduced by 40 mm, giving the truck a more aggressive stance and greater handling and stability through corners.

More importantly, its capability as a pickup truck remains intact. It can still carry loads of up to 1,000 kg and has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg.

NEWS

Isuzu D-Max posts record sale for two consecutive years, 9,650 unit sold in 2023

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THE Isuzu D-Max continues to record outstanding sales for 2023 with 9,650 units sold, setting a new record. This represents an increase of 439 units compared to the 9,211 units sold in 2022.

This achievement serves as evidence of the success of the design and features offered by the pickup truck, which has transformed the market and garnered more fans.

With its record sales for two consecutive years in Malaysia, the third generation Isuzu D-Max has successfully carved its own path and become the preferred pickup truck for consumers.

“Since the introduction of the third-generation D-Max in Malaysia in 2021, the interest in this model has remained consistently high due to its advanced features, excellent driving characteristics, versatile operations, and favorable value,” said Shunsuke Okazoe, Chief Executive Officer of Isuzu Malaysia.

“This new model has also expanded our customer base, recording a 185 percent increase in sales while simultaneously retaining our existing customer group.”

With a comprehensive lineup of eight variants for the Isuzu D-Max, users can choose the model that best suits their needs, ranging from the Single Cab version to the most advanced and flagship X-Terrain model.

Once again, the 1.9L Standard variant is the top choice, constituting 28% of sales.

Demand for the X-Terrain variant has also continued to increase throughout 2023. Its sales have risen by 24.5 percent since its launch. Notable features include the Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) and a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Sustained strong demand for the Isuzu D-Max has enabled the brand to secure the No. 2 position in Sabah, Kedah, and Pahang for the pickup truck segment. Nationally, it holds the third position with a market share of 16.6 percent.

NEWS

JPN receives three new Isuzu D-Max to enter Orang Asli villages

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THE Isuzu D-Max has been selected as the new vehicle for the National Registration Department (JPN) in their efforts to enter Orang Asli villages located in the interiors across the country for citizenship registration activities.

Three units of the Isuzu D-Max delivered will be utilized to serve at JPN offices in Kuala Mu, Perak; Gua Musang, Kelantan; and Kuala Rompin, Pahang. Its primary role is to operate alongside the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) and enter Orang Asli settlements to register residents, especially newborns in the respective areas.

To ensure safe travel for the vehicle and all passengers, all of these Isuzu D-Max units have been equipped with a winch, bull bar, canopy, and tires suitable for muddy surfaces.

In addition to the 3.0-liter diesel engine with 187hp and 450Nm torque, the D-Max is also equipped with a four-wheel drive system, differential lock, and the ability to wade through water up to a depth of 800mm.

This will allow it to confidently cross streams, rivers, or flooded roads and facilitate the team’s safe travel to and from their destination.

The Director-General of JPN, Zamri bin Misman, received three units of the Isuzu D-Max 3.0-liter from the Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, Kenkichi Sogo, during a brief ceremony held recently in Rompin.

The Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, Kenkichi Sogo, announced that the proven reputation of the Isuzu D-Max as a reliable vehicle will undoubtedly further facilitate the government department’s operations.

“The Isuzu pickup truck has earned recognition and established a reputation as a vehicle capable of enduring any condition and road surface.

“We are confident that this new D-Max will serve JPN very effectively in carrying out their duties,” added Kenkichi Sogo.