The all-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max is so popular, they've decided to launch it again

So good they did it twice: the all-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max has just been launched in Malaysia, but you already know all about it if you've been following our posts.

The preview article from 16-April already details all you need to know, but today's event marks the car's official market launch.

Also read: All-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia - priced from RM 89k, new 3.0L engine, ADAS!

Fully-imported (CBU Thailand) for now (with CKD to come later), prices range from RM 89k to RM 141k, across 7 variants:

Note too that there's a slight difference in warranty packages. The range-topping X-Terrain is backed by a best-in-class 7-year/unlimited mileage warranty, while the rest gets a 5-year/150,000 km package.

Better wading depth and ground clearance

Shaped in the same wind tunnel that honed Japan's shinkansen bullet trains, this third-generation D-Max's design goes beyond typical exterior redesigns.

For one, it sits higher - minimum ground clearance is now 240 mm, 5 mm up from the previous model. Water wading depth is better too at 800 mm, up from the last-gen's 600 mm.

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay-ready

The cabin's got a new look too, gaining a look and feel that mirrors an SUV more than it would a workhorse pick-up truck.

Higher-end variants come with leather upholstery, e-LUMAX instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch multi-information display (MID), auto-dimming rear view mirror, and even 8-way power adjustable driver's seat (X-Terrain only).

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support on 7- or 9-inch touchscreen infotainment systems are available in the 1.9 Premium variants and above.

Also read: Why your next car should come with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay

New 3.0L engine, revamped 1.9L mill, rear diff-lock

Powertrain-wise, this is how the new D-Max stacks up:

The fuel-efficient 1.9-litre mill is carried over from before, now refined to have sharper throttle response. Meanwhile, the 3.0-litre engine is new - coming with 13 PS and 70 Nm more from the one used in the previous generation.

There's a choice of 6-speed automatic or manual gearbox, an improved Terrain Command 4x4 system, and a rear differential lock - but this is limited only to the X-Terrain.

Also read: Pros and Cons: 2021 Isuzu D-Max - Very premium, but still not perfect

Full ADAS suite 

Variants on the lower end of the price scale don't get any ADAS functions, making do with just two airbags and basic items like hill start assist (HSA) and hill descent control (HDC). 

Meanwhile, only the X-Terrain variant gets the full ADAS suite:

• Adaptive cruise control with stop and go (ACC)
• Forward collision warning (FCW)
• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
• Lane departure warning (LDW)
• Automatic high beam (AHB)

These are in addition to turn assist, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (BSM, RCTA), and 7 airbags. 

WapCar's comments

Isuzu has done well with the all-new D-Max - it's a properly grown-up truck now. With its swanky redesign, premium SUV-esque interior, new and improved powertrain, and full ADAS suite, this is the competitor that the Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Triton and Ford Ranger should start to take more seriously now.

Also read: Thais prefer the Isuzu D-Max more than a Toyota Hilux, but can Isuzu win over Malaysians?

And that's not all just empty comments either - we've taken it for a drive, and you can read more about it in detail below.

Also read: Quick Review: All-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 X-Terrain, Malaysia's new best pick-up truck?