The 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) showcased the Isuzu D-Max and mu-X 2025 as two of the few new Japanese models on display. In fact, these are not entirely new models as they were officially launched in the Thai market in November 2024. However, this appearance provided a closer look at the upgraded versions of the Isuzu duo.
Isuzu D-Max 2025
The Isuzu D-Max retains its design from the upgraded version introduced in 2023. The only addition is a new color, Elbrus Grey Opaque, offering more choices for customers.
Isuzu D-Max 2025 in a sleek new grey shade.
The biggest change lies under the hood. Isuzu has replaced the long-serving 1.9-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with the new RZ4F-TC 2.2L Ddi MaxForce engine. Isuzu claims this engine is almost entirely new, with significantly improved performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions.
Notable improvements to this engine include increased cylinder capacity, higher power output, and maximum torque. Meanwhile, a high-flow lubrication system, high-swirl combustion chambers, and high-pressure fuel injectors of up to 250 MPa enhance fuel combustion. Super-low friction pistons reduce energy loss, and the electronically-controlled variable geometry turbocharger (eVGT) boosts responsiveness. Lastly, a multi-core ECU optimizes engine performance and handling.
These engine upgrades make the Isuzu D-Max 2025 more powerful, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly, further solidifying its position in the pickup truck segment. Specifically, the new MaxForce 2.2L engine now delivers a maximum output of 163 horsepower at 3,600 rpm and a peak torque of 400 Nm between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. Compared to the previous 1.9L engine, the new diesel engine offers an additional 13 horsepower and 50 Nm of torque.
The Isuzu D-Max and mu-X 2025 are equipped with the new 2.2L diesel engine.
The most impressive feature is the 56% increase in starting torque, providing significantly faster acceleration. Isuzu also claims a 10.7% reduction in fuel consumption on the highway, along with the lowest COâ‚‚ emissions in its class. The MaxForce 2.2L engine is paired with a new 8-speed Rev Tronic automatic transmission for optimal rev range or a 6-speed manual, depending on the variant.
In addition to the new diesel engine, the Isuzu D-Max 2025 retains the old 3.0L diesel engine, now renamed MaxForce. This engine produces the same 190 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque as before, coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Isuzu mu-X 2025
Similar to the D-Max, the Isuzu mu-X 2025 mid-size SUV is also equipped with the new MaxForce 2.2L and old MaxForce 3.0L engines. However, unlike its pickup sibling, the mu-X receives design improvements for a more rugged look.
The Isuzu mu-X 2025 sports a refreshed design.
To achieve a more athletic appearance, this mid-size SUV features notable changes such as sharp “eyebrow” LED daytime running lights, a large grille, an X-shaped front bumper with powerful air intakes, LED taillights with L-shaped graphics, and a rear bumper with a faux diffuser.
A rear view of the Isuzu mu-X 2025.
Especially noteworthy is the new RS variant, which boasts a sportier design. This version features a honeycomb mesh grille with the RS logo, a front bumper with wide triangular air intakes in the corners, integrated fog lights, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Additionally, the RS version showcases several glossy black exterior details, including the grille, air intakes on the front bumper, fake air intakes on the front fenders, wheel arches, mirror caps, roof rails, shark fin antenna, trim around the lights on the rear bumper, and a roof spoiler.
The Isuzu mu-X 2025 RS edition.
Inside, the Isuzu mu-X 2025 receives subtle refinements, including a soft leather-wrapped dashboard with stitching for a more premium feel, a new 9-inch infotainment screen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an analog instrument cluster complemented by a 7-inch multi-information display.
The interior of the Isuzu mu-X 2025.
Beyond engine and design upgrades, the Isuzu mu-X 2025 is also packed with modern safety technologies. These include a 360-degree camera with a “see-through” mode, especially useful for off-road driving, an active lane-keeping system that enables Level 2 autonomous driving, and a blind-spot monitoring system with collision avoidance braking.
With its bolder design, enhanced technology, and more powerful engines, the Isuzu MU-X 2025 remains a formidable rival to the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest in the 7-seater SUV segment.
It wouldn’t be surprising if the Isuzu D-Max and mu-X duo were launched in the Vietnamese market soon to boost sales.
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