Isuzu is putting in considerable effort in an attempt to clear its most challenging hurdle yet—the federal government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES).
With only the diesel-powered D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV in its lineup, Isuzu will find itself among the brands that will have difficulty achieving the government’s upcoming emission goals unless they make significant alterations to their lineup of products.
At present, the brand provides just two engine choices within its Australian lineup: the 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre turbo diesel units available across both the D-Max and MU-X models. While Isuzu offers additional variants internationally, Isuzu Ute Australia’s managing director, Junta Matsui, mentioned these alternatives are currently "being evaluated" for potential release Down Under.
・ Are the ute power battles coming to an end? A new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine is ready for both the 2025 Isuzu D-Max ute and the 2025 Isuzu MU-X family SUV. This engine aims to compete with rivals like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux but might offer reduced power and torque levels while boasting better emission standards.
・ The Isuzu D-Max EV has been unveiled! It’s set to arrive in Australia before both the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, offering a completely electrified utility vehicle!
・ They won’t make it": Australia introduces vehicle emission regulations, sparking division within the automotive sector with these new Vehicle Efficiency Standards.
Currently, Isuzu Australia has three distinct choices before them: mild-hybrid version of the 1.9-litre engine, a new 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel and a new all-electric The setup. Precisely which options Isuzu will adopt locally, whether some or all of them, is still uncertain.
When asked particularly about the 2.2-litre engine, which delivers 120kW/400Nm contrasted with the 3.0-litre’s output of 140kW/450Nm, Matsui expressed optimism regarding its capabilities.
Yep, it seems like a solid product," he mentioned. "It appears promising on paper.
A spokesperson for Isuzu stated that all options are being considered as the firm aims to dodge possible expensive penalties under NVES, which might impair their competitive standing as they strive to secure a spot among the top ten best-selling brands in Australia.
[The 2.2-liter engine is] currently being evaluated," the representative stated. "We're also studying several other powertrain options. Our approach involves developing strategies aligned with our NVES goals. This includes examining current global offerings from Isuzu, such as the 2.2-liter engine, along with exploring possibilities for mild hybrids and battery electric vehicles. For instance, Norway will be receiving its BEVs in 2025; they’re set to launch imminently, and we'll assess whether they would work well here.
The upcoming D-Max BEV is set to hit the Norwegian market soon, where the electric vehicle sector is already quite developed. This model employs two electric motors delivering 130 kW / 325 Nm combined output. It’s uncertain whether an entirely electric utility vehicle would appeal to the Australian audience, as consumers here seem more inclined towards diesel engines. However, we do know that in 2025, both the BYD Atto 3 and Ford Ranger plan to launch models equipped with plug-in hybrid systems.
When asked about the timeline for introducing these new options, several Isuzu executives indicated that they might arrive within the next couple of years, potentially making the mild-hybrid and electric D-Max available in local dealerships by late 2027.
"It could be," Matsui conceded.
Although certain industry experts have hinted that NVES might result in the decline of some brands, and Isuzu finds itself in a vulnerable position due to its limited lineup, Matsui emphasized that Isuzu remains committed to staying in the market.
“We will definitely find a way to survive," he stated. "We aim to create a good equilibrium because we think...people won't alter their lifestyles. Hence, it needs to serve its intended purpose. Our objective is to strike an ideal balance between solutions tailored for Australians and meeting emission targets. To achieve this optimal balance, we are engaging discussions with governmental officials.” Isuzu development team.”
