The Isuzu D-Max Stealth is NOT a stealthy truck
“Make your presence felt with the Isuzu D-Max Stealth”. If ever there was a contradicting headline in an official press release, this had to be it.
In all fairness, it’s one of the ‘witty’ ways we’ve come to expect from Isuzu Malaysia when time comes to push yet another special edition version of its the D-Max pick-up truck offering. Unveiled virtually today is the latest of which, the D-Max Stealth, that commemorates Isuzu Malaysia's 15th anniversary.
Ironically, this truck does not appear to be as ‘stealthy’ as its name suggests, but perhaps there are a few of you lot who wouldn’t mind it.
Unlike the regular D-Max, this one sports blacked-out exterior trims instead of chromed ones, racy 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, an angrier-looking front fascia thanks to a new front spoiler piece, and the presence of ‘racier’ decals and graphics over its white- or black-painted body – it only comes in either colours.
Perhaps the only stealthy bit here is the novel power retractable sidesteps flanking the cab. These, aptly, automatically extend and retract in tandem with opening or closing any of the doors, and it even comes with ‘welcome lighting’ for you to see it better at night. Yep, ‘stealthy’…
In contrast, the exterior treatment does seem more understated than this special edition’s, err… not-so-stealthy cabin. That because inside, this truck sports two-tone red-black leather seat covers, though it’s obvious the scarlet hue is more dominant.
The good news here is that Isuzu have added more toys and features. Some of which are pretty useful like the 360-degree parking camera view, DVR (Digital Video Recorders) or dashcams front and aft, as well as forward parking sensors.
Apart from these enhancements, the D-Max Stealth is mechanically identical to the regular D-Max variant it underpins, specifically the one packing Isuzu’s signature 1.9-litre Ddi BluePower 4cyl turbo-diesel lump, 6-speed automatic box and 4x4 drivetrain combination – something we tested not too long ago.
If you think the D-Max lacked character or charm, this might do the trick, but you’d best hurry. Just 180 units will be up for grabs, each commanding RM125,799.20 (Peninsula) and RM128,176.20 (East Malaysia) excluding insurance.
Said prices also include a 7-year unlimited mileage warranty. Additionally, early birds who register their D-Max Stealth within this month are entitled to a free sports roll bar, or purchase a T-Lid cover (worth RM5,500) at a discounted price of RM2,000.
Are you liking Isuzu's idea of what a 'stealthy' truck ought to be? Have a browse through the gallery below to see more of it. Also, if you're curious as to how this 1.9-litre Ddi BluePower 4cyl turbo-diesel mill is like, you can read our test-drive report by clicking these blue words...
