Isuzu Launches 2.2-Liter Biturbo Diesel Engine in Thailand
Isuzu has introduced a new 2.2-liter twin-turbo diesel engine for the D-Max and MU-X in Thailand, delivering higher power and torque than its 3.0-liter predecessor with improved acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Isuzu has introduced a more powerful version of its 2.2 litre inline-four turbodiesel engine in Thailand. The new 2.2 Ddi MaxForce Biturbo, designated RZ4F-TCX, replaces the 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX engine in several variants of the D-Max pickup and MU-X SUV. It produces 204 PS and 500 Nm of torque. This marks a strategic shift for Isuzu's Thai lineup, focusing on smaller displacement with enhanced performance.
The new unit offers a 5% improvement in 0-100 km/h acceleration and a 12% stronger 80-100 km/h acceleration compared to the older 3.0-liter engine. Isuzu also claims the Biturbo is 8% more fuel efficient. The engine's output matches that of Toyota's 1GD-FTV 2.8-liter single-turbo diesel used in the Hilux and Fortuner.
Engine technology and transmission
The RZ4F-TCX engine employs a twin-turbo system with Gi-Boost technology operating at 250 Mpa. It features a variable geometry low-pressure turbo and uses sequential turbocharging to eliminate lag. Transmission options include an eight-speed automatic and a six-speed manual gearbox. This new Biturbo builds on the single-turbo 2.2-liter RZ4F-TC engine that debuted in Thailand in 2024.
Output figures for key engines in the Thai market's pickup and SUV segment are as follows:
| Engine Model | Displacement | Configuration | Power (PS) | Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isuzu RZ4F-TCX | 2.2L | Biturbo | 204 | 500 |
| Isuzu 4JJ3-TCX | 3.0L | Single-Turbo | 190 | 450 |
| Isuzu RZ4F-TC | 2.2L | Single-Turbo | 163 | 400 |
| Toyota 1GD-FTV | 2.8L | Single-Turbo | 204 | 500 (est.) |
| Ford 2.0L Biturbo | 2.0L | Biturbo | 210 | 500 |
| Mitsubishi 4N16 | 2.4L | Single-Turbo | 204 | 480 |
| Nissan YS23DDTT | 2.3L | Twin-Turbo | 190 | 450 |
Market positioning and variant availability
The new Biturbo engine is reserved for higher-specification models of the D-Max and MU-X. For the MU-X, the 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX engine has been dropped entirely. The SUV lineup is now offered solely with 2.2-liter turbodiesels, available in both single-turbo and Biturbo configurations.
In Thailand, Isuzu continues to offer the 3.0-liter engine in select D-Max variants. Most D-Max and MU-X models now use 2.2-liter engines, with 3.0-liter options becoming limited. The D-Max remains available with the 4JJ3-TCX, the single-turbo RZ4F-TC, and the new Biturbo RZ4F-TCX engines. Isuzu has not yet introduced this 2.2-liter turbodiesel family to other markets, such as the Philippines, where the D-Max and MU-X still use the 3.0-liter engine rated at 190 PS and 450 Nm.
The article concludes with the new Biturbo engine's application in higher-spec D-Max pickup and MU-X SUV models.
