The ever dauntless all-terrain performer
When it comes to the savage terrains of the offroad jungle, the Isuzu D-Max has been one dauntless performer. Ever since its inception in 2002, the brute has not only been a reliable cargo workhorse, but also a wellbred machine off the beaten path. It may not have the muscles of the Dwayne Johnsons or John Cenas of the pickup world. But it has proven that it can be the badass Chris Pratt it can be when needed. Just check out the chevalier in Jurassic World.
In a recent media drive to the untamed territories of the Sacobia River in Pampanga, we brought a fleet of the Isuzu D-Max and Mu-X to, yet again, test their mettle.
Personally, we were able to try, in particular, the Isuzu D-Max 3.0 4X4 LS-E AT.
This writer has been to countless media drives of this kind and the D-Max has never disappointed.
Now, again with this one, we unleashed into the wild its latest powertrain. Specifically, the 4JJ3 three-liter diesel engine, capable of 189hp and 450N-m of torque was now in its element.
Amid the harsh environment riddled with volcanic ash, muddy water and debris, the pickup was undaunted and kept its poise. It remained steadfast using its 4WD controls. From 2H to 4H and even 4L, transfer was such a cinch, smooth and flawless. The aluminum driveshaft working together with the double wishbone coil spring with high-mounted control arm and stabilizer was sterling. This allows, not only a lighter load, but also an efficiently distributed power across the workhorse. Articulation for this caliber can already be above par, if you ask me.
In traversing terrains such as this, the most exposed part of the vehicle is usually its under body chassis. But the D-Max made sure it had superb protection that stretches from the skid plate all the way to the transfer case, the best-in-its-class. It ensures that the vehicle keeps its chassis integrity, enduring harsh road conditions.
Moreover, an on-board Clinometer equipped in its 10inch infotainment touchscreen system can also be enjoyed as it assisted us during descent and incline approaches.
The drive from our entry point at the banks of the Sacobia River toward the edge of the whole offroad course and back took us about two hours.
In the end, this latest-generation Isuzu D-Max has proven that it has the same will and the same spirit as its predecessors of eons ago. Only now, though, this beast has just–truly–far elevated its game.
