Why Isuzu’s 2.2-Litre Turbodiesel Engine is Yet to Launch in South Africa

Why Isuzu’s 2.2-Litre Turbodiesel Engine is Yet to Launch in South Africa

Isuzu South Africa has hinted at the arrival of its new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine for the popular D-Max bakkie and MU-X SUV, but the company is taking a measured approach before launching locally. According to Cars.co.za, Isuzu’s local CEO, Billy Tom, emphasised the need to thoroughly test the engine for reliability and durability before making it available to South African drivers.

Summary of the News

  • The 2.2 Ddi MaxForce engine, first revealed in Thailand in November 2024, produces 120 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque an improvement over the current 1.9 litre unit.

  • Overseas, the engine has already replaced the 1.9 litre option in updated D-Max and MU-X models.

  • Isuzu South Africa currently imports engines from Thailand and is evaluating the timing for local introduction. The company wants to ensure the new powertrain meets the brand’s standards for durability before launching.

  • Additionally, Isuzu has been testing new energy options locally, including the fully electric D-Max EV, which will be considered for future rollout once market conditions are ready.

Challenges / Opportunities

Opportunities:

  • The 2.2 litre engine offers more power and torque, potentially improving towing capacity and driving performance for D-Max and MU-X owners.

  • Once introduced it could modernise the line up and increase competitiveness in the South African bakkie market.

Challenges:

  • Timing remains uncertain, leaving buyers unsure of when the upgrade will be available.

  • As the vehicle relies on imported engines, supply chain delays could affect launch schedules.

  • Customers may need to weigh whether to wait for the new engine or purchase current models.

What This Means for South African Buyers

For GD Motors customers and South African bakkie enthusiasts:

  • Those planning to purchase a D-Max or MU-X may need to decide between buying now with the current 1.9 litre engine or waiting for the more powerful 2.2 litre unit.

  • Trade in values for existing vehicles could shift once the new engine becomes available, affecting resale timing.

  • Awareness of these developments allows buyers to make informed decisions about upgrades, towing needs, and long term ownership costs.

GD Motors’ Take

At GD Motors, we monitor developments like the new Isuzu 2.2 litre engine to provide our customers with informed guidance. While we do not sell Isuzu EVs, understanding the market impact of new engines is crucial:

  • Strategic advice: We can help buyers evaluate whether it makes sense to purchase now or wait for updates.

  • Market insights: Increased engine performance in popular bakkies can affect pricing, trade-in values, and vehicle availability across dealerships.

  • Practical support: Our team can advise on alternatives that meet your performance, towing, or load-carrying needs without compromising reliability.

Curious about which bakkie or SUV best fits your needs in 2025?

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Sources: Cars.co.za – Why Isuzu SA hasn’t (yet?) launched the new 2.2TD engine

Image: Ryno Marais on Unsplash