Isuzu UTE Australia (IUA) is shaking up its engine lineup with the introduction of a new 2.2L EURO5 RZ4F turbo-diesel engine. Arriving in October 2025, this powerplant aims to deliver a blend of performance and efficiency, slotting in beneath the existing 3.0-liter unit. According to Isuzu UTE Managing Director, Mr. Junta Matsui, this strategic move reflects a commitment to customer feedback, focusing on “value for money, durability, and performance.”
The new 2.2L engine produces 120kW of power and 400Nm of torque, figures that, on paper, position it as a solid contender in the competitive utility vehicle segment. Each engine is paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission, promising smoother shifts and enhanced driveability. Isuzu is discontinuing the 1.9L engine and manual transmission options.
Here’s a quick look at the vital stats:
- Engine: 2.2L EURO5 RZ4F turbo-diesel
- Power: 120kW
- Torque: 400Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Towing Capacity: 3.5 tonnes (standard across D-MAX and MU-X range)
- Fuel Economy: 6.3L/100km (combined cycle)
The 2.2L engine will be available in specific D-MAX and MU-X variants: SX and X-RIDER for the D-MAX, and LS-M, LS-U and LS-T for the MU-X. Safety remains a priority, with all 2.2L variants retaining a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. The 2025 D-MAX and MU-X models come standard with a suite of safety features including:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking with Turn Assist
- Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Warning and Prevention
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
One notable upgrade is the standardization of a 3.5-tonne towing capacity across the entire D-MAX and MU-X range – a pragmatic upgrade for owners who tow. Isuzu UTE has also announced a new color option, Wolfram Grey Metallic, for the D-MAX X-RIDER and higher trims.
The introduction of this engine comes on the heels of Isuzu UTE’s continued success in the Australian market. The brand has secured a spot in the top-10 for annual vehicle sales for the past three years, with the D-MAX ute being a strong seller. As they also continue to support the A-League, according to recent news, Isuzu is betting that its focus on customer needs will keep it competitive.