{
  "id": 16428625,
  "title": "Can Isuzu D-Max repel incoming wave of Chinese bakkies?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/25/can-isuzu-d-max-repel-incoming-wave-of-chinese-bakkies",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-25T04:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/motoring/isuzu-d-max-repel-incoming-chinese-bakkies/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Isuzu D-Max has been updated with a new Rough Terrain Mode, now standard on all 4x4 derivatives. This comes as a response to complaints about the ride being overly firm and throttle-brake calibration issues. The Isuzu D-Max is renowned for its unbeatable durability and reliability, making it South Africa's third best seller behind the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. The 3.0 litre turbodiesel engine produces 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, with 0-100km/h time of 10.5 seconds and 60-140km/h roll on time of 16.27 seconds. The exterior features a silky silver and dark grey trim, along with attractive new turbine-style 12-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, you'll find premium levels and semi-gloss silver finishes on the new U-shaped dashboard, along with a new nine-inch infotainment system, digital improvements, heated front seats, and shift paddles on the steering wheel for the automatic transmission. Despite some issues with ride quality, the Isuzu D-Max is expected to hold its ground against Chinese competitors in the foreseeable future.",
  "summary": "We got to spend a week with the Isuzu D-Max 3.0 TDI LSE 4x4 AT Double Cab to try find the answer to our question.",
  "key_points": [
    "Isuzu D-Max gets Rough Terrain Mode standard on 4x4 variants",
    "3.0 litre turbodiesel engine delivers 140kW power and 450Nm torque",
    "Expected to outperform Chinese bakkies despite ride quality issues"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}