Isuzu D-MAX 2.2 Completes 1,605km East Malaysia Drive On One Tank Of Diesel
The new Isuzu D-MAX 2.2-litre turbo diesel recently completed a 1,605km journey from Sandakan, Sabah, to Kuching, Sarawak, on a single tank of diesel, demonstrating its fuel efficiency across challenging East Malaysian roads.
The achievement was part of Isuzu Malaysia’s D-MAX One Tank. One Nation Challenge, following an earlier challenge in which the pick-up completed a loop of Peninsular Malaysia using just one tank of fuel.
Two variants took part in the East Malaysian leg: the D-MAX 2.2 4×2 AutoPlus and the 4×4 Automatic Premium. Both completed the journey with fuel remaining, while the 4×2 AutoPlus finished without even triggering its low-fuel warning light.
The challenge began at the Universal Motor Isuzu showroom in Sandakan, with the convoy travelling through Sabah and Sarawak before reaching the Jimisar Auto Niaga Isuzu 3S Centre in Kuching.
Isuzu D-MAX Tackles Crocker Range And Pan Borneo Highway
The route presented a tougher test than a straightforward highway drive, taking the pick-ups along trunk roads, through ongoing Pan Borneo Highway construction zones and over mountainous terrain around the Crocker Range near Mount Kinabalu.
From Sandakan, the convoy travelled to Telupid before heading towards Kundasang and Kota Kinabalu. It then crossed into Sarawak via Brunei, continuing through Miri, Bintulu, Sarikei and Sibu before reaching Kuching.
Isuzu Malaysia Chief Operating Officer for Light Commercial Vehicles Kenichi Kudo said the challenge was designed to demonstrate the D-MAX’s capabilities in conditions that reflect the roads customers encounter in their daily lives.
He noted that fuel efficiency claims were more meaningful when tested on a combination of congested trunk roads, construction areas and steep mountain routes, rather than on smooth highways alone.
New 2.2-Litre Turbo Diesel And Eight-Speed Automatic
The D-MAX’s performance in the challenge was attributed to its new 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, which Isuzu describes as its “Best Engine Ever”.
The engine is designed to deliver improved power, torque, refinement, durability, reliability and fuel efficiency. Its strong low-revolution torque allows the pick-up to climb steep gradients in higher gears, helping reduce fuel consumption while providing a more relaxed driving experience.
The engine is paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, which Isuzu says further enhances driving comfort and performance.
Beyond fuel savings, Kudo said the new 2.2-litre D-MAX offers the potential for lower operating costs through greater durability, improved productivity and lower road tax.
These factors are particularly relevant to commercial operators and businesses, for which fuel expenditure, vehicle uptime and maintenance costs directly affect operating efficiency.
Public Engagement Along The Route
The challenge also included activities at selected Isuzu dealer outlets, where D-MAX brand ambassador Baki Zainal met fans and distributed Isuzu merchandise as the convoy made its way across East Malaysia.
Members of the public were invited to predict the total mileage covered during the challenge, with RM10,000 worth of prizes on offer, including RM5,000 in grocery shopping vouchers for the winning entry.
CarTok Editor’s Note
The D-MAX 2.2’s 1,605km East Malaysian run is a showcase for fuel efficiency in real world conditions. For pick-up owners covering long distances, especially those in logistics, agriculture and other commercial sectors, lower fuel costs translate into meaningful savings over time.
The new 2.2-litre engine and eight-speed automatic transmission also highlight how powertrain improvements can deliver stronger performance and better operating efficiency. On this drive, the 4×2 AutoPlus shows its suitability for buyers who spend most of their time on paved roads and do not need four-wheel drive.
However, a one-tank challenge is a demonstration, not a guarantee of everyday fuel consumption. Actual results will depend on payload, driving style, traffic and terrain.
