Isuzu unveils the 2012 Crosswind and 2012 D-MAX at the 2011 Auto Focus Motorshow

MANILA, Philippines - Everyone knows that the secret to longevity is the ability to adjust to the changing needs of the times. In the local automotive scene, no one has been able to embrace this mantra as much as Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) has. The company has constantly taken successful products and platforms and refreshed them to meet its clientele’s changing needs – the latest examples of which are the 2012 Crosswind and 2011 D-MAX, which were both launched over the weekend at the just-concluded 2011 Auto Focus Motorshow held at the concert grounds of the SM Mall of Asia.

The updated 2012 Crosswind, fresh from again being named “Best AUV” in the 2011 Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards (it also won the “Best On-Board Entertainment” award in the AUV category), sports several new upgrades in its many guises. The 2012 Sportivo variant of the Crosswind, for example, is now equipped with a new entertainment system, more cargo space and a fresh identity. There’s now the availability of a navigation system as a dealer option. There’s also the very practical roof basket for more cargo-carrying flexibility. A new “Sportivo+” badge also now adorns the exterior.

The 2012 Crosswind’s other features like the projector-type headlamps, which are 12% brighter than ordinary headlights, and side mirrors that have turn signals and are power-folding (Sportivo and XUV), also continue to add to the vehicle’s long-lasting appeal. The Sportivo also has a reverse sensor and camera for enhanced safety when backing up; an SUV-type rear bumper step with an oval-shaped tail-pipe finisher (also for the XUV); and bigger and more rugged 235/70 R15 all-terrain tires (also for the XUV).

The above improvements complement the Crosswind’s standard list of impressive specifications, including its tried-and-tested 2.5-liter 4JA1-L diesel engine; well-built chassis frame; side-impact beams; child-proof door locks; responsive alarm system; large interior cargo space; leather seats (Sportivo); and lots of cup holders.

“The Crosswind has always had a reputation for being the best value-for-money vehicle in its class,” says IPC President Ryoji Yamazaki. “With this latest addition of new features, the award-winning Crosswind becomes an even better proposition for those who are looking for a reliable and capable vehicle that will serve them well for many years to come.”

The 2012 Isuzu Crosswind is now available in Ebony Black, Rich Red, Midnight Blue, Glacial White, Titanium Silver, Cyanine Green and Moroccan Gold.

The 2012 D-MAX, meanwhile, gets some additional upgrades of its own. Also a recipient of the “Best On-Board Entertainment” trophy in its category, the 2012 D-MAX further proves that when it comes to versatility and dependability, “The Possibilities are Endless,” which has been the pick-up truck’s marketing catchphrase over the past year.

Isuzu has designated the 4x4 D-MAX LS as the “Radikal” variant for the year 2012. The pick-up now features a color-keyed bumper over-rider up front, genuine Isuzu bedliner at the back, and the distinctive “Radikal” badge on the sheet metal.

The cosmetic and functional upgrades that complement the D-MAX’s proven standard equipment include the powerful 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TC iTEQ common-rail diesel engine; durable ladder-type chassis; comfortable Flex-Ride suspension system; 2-DIN audio-video head unit with navigation-ready system; projector-type headlamps that provide 14% more illumination than their ordinary counterparts; side-impact steel beams; dual front airbags; ABS with electronic brake-force distribution; reverse camera and sensor; two-tone (4x2 LS) and Elegant Black (4x4 LS) seat materials; and a high-center console box.

“The continued sales and critical success of the D-MAX is proof of its world-class quality,” stresses Yamazaki. “This is the result of our sensitivity to the unique requirements of the Philippine pickup market. The 2012 model is designed to preserve the D-MAX’s lofty stature in its highly competitive segment.”

The 2012 Isuzu D-MAX is now available in Rich Red, Magma Red, Midnight Blue, Ebony Black, Glacial White and Titanium Silver.

For other inquiries, visit your nearest Isuzu dealership now. In Metro Manila, Isuzu dealerships can be found in Alabang, Commonwealth, EDSA Balintawak, Makati, Manila, Pasig and Quezon Avenue. In the provinces, Isuzu dealerships are located in Bacolod, Batangas, Bulacan, Cabanatuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cavite, Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Isabela, Mandaue, Pampanga, Pangasinan and San Pablo. Check also www.isuzuphil.com for other Isuzu updates.