The Isuzu D-Max continues to solidify its position as one of Malaysia’s top-performing pick-up trucks in 2025, with its reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and robust performance driving it to unprecedented heights. In the first quarter of the year, Isuzu Malaysia captured a record 18.3 per cent share of the national pick-up truck segment, a marked increase from the 14.0 per cent achieved during the same period in 2024.
This performance has propelled the D-Max into second place overall in Malaysia’s competitive pick-up market, making it one of the most sought-after choices among both urban and rural buyers. The surge in demand comes despite growing public scepticism towards diesel vehicles, largely triggered by a recent spike in diesel fuel prices across Peninsular Malaysia.
According to Kenkichi Sogo, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, the company is witnessing a significant shift in buyer perception. Consumers, he said, are increasingly recognising the D-Max’s versatility, dependability, and affordability, particularly in times of rising living costs. Sogo emphasised that the D-Max offers not just impressive capabilities for both work and leisure, but also extremely low running costs and a road tax of under RM400 annually in Peninsular Malaysia—making it a financially prudent choice.
The D-Max’s rising popularity isn’t confined to its traditional stronghold in East Malaysia, where Isuzu holds a commanding 28.4 per cent market share. Sales in Peninsular Malaysia have surged dramatically as well, with market share growing from 12.1 per cent in 2024 to 17.1 per cent in 2025. This expansion underlines the growing appeal of the D-Max among a broader demographic, from business owners and fleet operators to private users.
A major contributor to this momentum is the 1.9-litre engine that powers all three of Isuzu Malaysia’s top-selling variants—the 1.9-litre 4×4 Auto Premium, 1.9-litre 4×4 Auto Standard, and 1.9-litre 4×2 Auto Plus—which together account for 72.7 per cent of total D-Max sales. This compact yet capable powerplant recently proved its efficiency credentials when two variants entered the Malaysian Book of Records by covering an impressive 2,004 kilometres on a single tank of fuel.
With its class-leading features, attractive design, comprehensive five-year warranty, and superior economy, the Isuzu D-Max is increasingly being viewed as a strategic purchase for Malaysians looking to navigate the challenges of rising costs without compromising on quality or capability.
