Isuzu D-MAX and mu-X gain a new 2.2L turbodiesel in Thailand

Sometime ago, Isuzu teased a new engine dubbed as the Maxforce. About two weeks ago, all details were revealed.

Known as the RZ4F-TC, the new powertrain replaces the entry-level 1.9-liter BluePower RZ4E turbodiesel engine which powers lower variants of the pickup truck and SUB siblings, and has a larger displacement of 2.2-liters.

For reference, the RZ4E made 150 horsepower and 350 Nm, with options of a 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

The new one produces more power and torque at 163 horsepower and 400 Nm (+13 PS and 50 Nm), with the option of a new 8-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed manual transmission is still available depending on the variant.

Isuzu says that with the 8-speed automatic’s wider gear range and optimized torque, high-performance lockup dampers, and gear shift map settings, the combination should be able to provide 56% better start-up capability, acceleration, and 10% better fuel economy. The company also says that the RZ4F has minimized noise levels.

The increase in performance can also be attributed to the engine’s cylinders which have been redesigned with a high-flow lubrication system and a high-swirl combustion chamber which improves combustion efficiency. It also gets ultra low friction pistons and an electronic variable geometry turbo (e-VGS). Meanwhile, its fuel injectors are now able to operate at up to 250 MPa of pressure.

In Thailand, the RZ4F will be available alongside the popular 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX engine, with the RZ4E remaining available on the mild-hybrid variants. What we want to know now is when the new engine will come to the Philippines.