The Isuzu D-Max Eiger double cab 4×4 was piloted by journalist Dan Gilkes and co-driver Ray Penford, and came second overall out of the 22 competitors, which included a host of fuel-efficient passenger cars, in its first MPG Marathon competition.
The MPG Marathon is a test of fuel consumption for standard production cars and light commercial vehicles, which serves to demonstrate how employing smarter, efficient driving techniques can save money at the pumps. The winner is the vehicle that achieves the largest fuel economy improvement over the manufacturer’s official combined cycle figures.
The Isuzu D-Max pick-up is powered by a Euro 5-compliant 2.5-litre twin-turbo common-rail diesel engine, producing 163 PS at 3,600 rpm and 400 Nm of torque between 1,400 and 2,000 rpm. The new engine produces CO2 emissions of 194 g/km and official fuel economy of 38.2 mpg (4×4 manual models).
William Brown, general manager at Isuzu UK commented: ‘Performing so well in the MPG Marathon reinforces a key attribute that contributes to the broad appeal of the Isuzu D-Max. Even with the official combined cycle figures, the Isuzu D-Max offers class-leading fuel efficiency, and with sensible purchase prices, affordable finance packages, a five-year / 125,000-mile warranty and excellent residual values, it is hugely cost-effective for both fleets and individual owners.’
Event organiser and editor of Fleet World, Ross Durkin, commented: ‘The MPG Marathon highlights the fuel savings that can be achieved by any driver in any vehicle. And you don’t have to be a seasoned, hyper-miling pro to do it.
‘The drivers had strict time limits to make sure they kept up with the traffic at all times, and faced some really challenging conditions at times. The motor manufacturers and technology suppliers have done a tremendous job in improving the fuel efficiency of all new cars and vans, but motorists should see their published fuel consumption figures as a target to beat, not the maximum achievable.’
Isuzu D-Max sales for 2013 are 140% up versus the previous 12-month period.