Isuzu has unveiled a new 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel engine for its popular D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV, making more power and torque than the legendary 3.0-litre diesel currently offered in Australia. Revealed as part of updated versions of both models in Thailand, the new 2.2-litre ‘DDi Maxforce Bi-Turbo’ four-cylinder makes 150kW at 3600rpm and 500Nm between 1600rpm and 2600rpm.

That’s an increase of 10kW and 50Nm over the existing 3.0-litre turbo-diesel, while matching the torque output of the 2.8-litre engine in the Toyota HiLux despite its smaller capacity. Compared with the 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel Mitsubishi Triton, the new Isuzu engine makes the same 150kW, but 30Nm more torque. It also makes 25kW and 95Nm more grunt compared to the four-cylinder Ford Ranger and Everest models.

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The new engine is based on Isuzu’s existing 2.2-litre single-turbo diesel, which was introduced to Australia in 2025 with outputs of 120kW and 400Nm and features in more entry-level versions of both the D-Max and MU-X.

However, the more powerful version adds a new two-stage turbocharging system with a variable-geometry low-pressure turbocharger with a high-pressure unit to improve throttle response and performance across the rev range, according to Isuzu.

Isuzu says the new engine delivers five per cent quicker acceleration from 0-100km/h and a 12 per cent improvement between 80-100km/h compared with the 3.0-litre diesel. The company also claims an eight per cent improvement in fuel efficiency under extra-urban driving conditions, and in Thailand at least, it is rated from 6.5L/100km.

A revised eight-speed automatic transmission accompanies the new engine, while a six-speed manual gearbox is also available in selected Thai-market D-Max variants. If it arrives in Australia, we’d bet on the automatic being standard fit, as is the case with the current 3.0-litre.

Aside from the new engine, both the D-Max and MU-X have also received minor styling updates, including revised grilles, bumpers and alloy wheels. The MU-X RS gains new black exterior highlights, lime green accents and a new ‘Havasu Grey’ paint finish.

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While the updated D-Max and MU-X will arrive in Thai showrooms later this month, Australian availability for the new twin-turbo engine remains unconfirmed. It raises questions about the future of the long-serving 3.0-litre diesel engine, particularly as Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) forces manufacturers to sell more fuel efficient and lower-emitting engines.

Whether the new twin-turbo 2.2-litre turbo-diesel eventually joins it in Australia’s D-Max and MU-X ranges remains to be seen. Watch this space.