2026 Isuzu D-Max gains a new Diesel engine

Electrification has already reached the Isuzu D-Max, which is now offered in a fully electric version. That does not, however, mean the Japanese pick-up is ready to abandon Diesel power.

For this update, the headline development sits beneath the bonnet: a new Diesel engine. It is accompanied by refreshed exterior styling and, according to the brand, a “more comfortable and sophisticated” cabin.

As before, the 2026 Isuzu D-Max is offered with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, three cab styles - single, extended and double - plus versions aimed at both working use and leisure. Prices start at €33,188 (+VAT).

The biggest development is under the bonnet

At a time when Diesel remains under scrutiny, the Isuzu D-Max makes this type of engine its key new feature for 2026.

The former 1.9-litre engine has been replaced by a new 2.2-litre unit. Output remains at 164 hp, while maximum torque rises from 360 Nm to 400 Nm, available between 1,600 rpm and 2,400 rpm.

According to the brand, the most noticeable improvement comes at low revs. From just 1,000 rpm, the new engine delivers 255 Nm of torque, compared with only 160 Nm from the previous 1.9-litre engine.

Isuzu says this increased availability reduces the need to use the gearbox in situations such as manoeuvring, climbing hills, pulling away with a load or driving over uneven terrain.

The transmissions have also been revised to accommodate the extra torque. The brand says the aim was to improve performance, efficiency, durability and everyday driving comfort.

The range includes a six-speed manual gearbox and a new eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission, specifically calibrated for the new engine. Availability of each option depends on the version selected.

Off-road capability also remains one of this model’s strongest selling points. Depending on the configuration, it can ford water up to 80 cm deep and has approach, breakover and departure angles of up to 30.5º, 22.9º and 24.2º respectively.

Refreshed styling

As is typical of a mid-cycle update, the styling revisions are mainly subtle. At the front, there is a new grille, redesigned lights, larger fog lamps and fresh wheel designs.

At the rear, the light clusters have also been restyled, while a new bumper and a new load-bed tailgate handle have been added.

Inside, there are new trim patterns, a multifunction steering wheel and a 7-inch digital instrument panel. Depending on the version, four exterior cameras are also available, providing a 360º view around the pick-up.

The update also introduces systems including driver monitoring and 4G e-Call, while bringing the D-Max into line with Euro 6e-bis regulations and the latest European safety requirements.

From €33,188 (+VAT)

In Portugal, the 2026 Isuzu D-Max starts at €33,188 (+VAT) in single-cab form with two seats. The three-seat extended cab starts from €36,908 (+VAT). The double cab, available with three or five seats, starts at €38,508 (+VAT).

For the single cab, the L version is offered with 4×2 or 4×4 drive and a manual gearbox, with the automatic available to order. The extended-cab line-up is limited to 4×4 L and LS versions, with manual or automatic transmissions; the latter is available to order on L models. The double cab, meanwhile, can be specified with 4×2 or 4×4 drive, three or five seats, and L, LS or LSE trim levels paired with manual or automatic gearboxes, depending on the version.