While Isuzu Motors is preparing itself to start its Indian operations, its Indonesian subsidiary is all set to expand its lineup with the introduction of the Isuzu MU-7 SUV and the second generation Isuzu D-Max pickup truck.
Isuzu's Indonesian portfolio consists of the Panther (Chevrolet Tavera's cousin), Pickup (based on Panther), D-Max along with medium and heavy commercial vehicles. Speaking to the Indonesian media, Mr. Edi J Oekasah, GM Marketing, Isuzu Astra Motor Indonesia, confirmed that the new D-Max will be launched within this year. The pickup truck is likely to be showcased at the Indonesia International Motor Show in September.
He also added that the Isuzu MU-7 SUV will be added to the lineup soon after, but stopped short of divulging the time frame. The D-Max based SUV will be competing with the Toyota Fortuner and the Mitsubishi Pajero (Pajero Sport in India) while the new D-Max will lock horns with the respective pickup siblings Toyota Hilux and the Mitsubishi Strada Triton.
As far as Isuzu's Indian operations go, the MU-7 and the old D-Max will be assembled at Hindustan Motors' facility in Chennai until Isuzu's proposed plant at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, is ready.
Talking to Indian Autos Blog, Mr. Takashi Kikuchi, Managing Director, Isuzu Motors India, told that the company is undecided on bringing the new D-Max to India. We expect Isuzu to take a decision after receiving customer feedback.
[Source: Autos.okezone.com]
