ISUZU - PART OF
AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY
1916
FOUNDED IN JAPAN
Isuzu's history started in 1916 when Tokyo Ishikawajima Shipbuilding & Engineering Company Limited and Tokyo Gas & Engineering Company collaborated for vehicle development.
1918
COMPANY BEGINS VENTURE WITH WOLSELEY MOTOR LTD
The Company initiated vehicle manufacturing, starting a passenger production venture with British automaker, Wolseley Motor Ltd.
1922
FIRST PASSENGER VEHICLE
After 4 years of development, the Wolseley A9 becomes the first passenger vehicle produced in Japan.
1933
THE "ISUZU" MODEL IS LAUNCHED
In 1933, a government standard model vehicle was completed and the following year the vehicle was badged "Isuzu".
1937
TOKYO AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRIES OFFICIALLY ESTABLISHED
On April 9, 1937, Automobile Industries merged with Tokyo Gas & Electric Co. to establish Tokyo Automobile Industries Co., Ltd. Isuzu regards this date as the official establishing day of the present Isuzu Motors Ltd.
1949
COMPANY TAKES ON THE ISUZU NAME
Following a successful decade, the company takes on the Isuzu name, and Isuzu Motors Limited is established to focus on vehicle production.
1959
ISUZU LAUNCH N-SERIES
Ten years later in 1959, Isuzu launched the Elf in Japan or internationally known N-Series light duty truck.
1963
ISUZU BELLETT PASSENGER CAR
Moving in passenger cars, the Isuzu Bellett goes into production, soon to become one of Japan's most successful global vehicle exports.
Continuing with a defining year in the Isuzu company history, the groundbreaking Isuzu Wasp is released as the 1st ute in Isuzu's history.
1972
ISUZU FASTER IS RELEASED
In the same year that Isuzu Motors signed a capital agreement with General Motors, the Isuzu Faster is released as our 1st generation Ute and exported all around the world.
1980
THE 2ND GEN OF ISUZU UTE
The 2nd generation of Isuzu UTE goes into production, and is a global success story, known in the lucrative US market as the Isuzu P'up, this iconic vehicle still has legions of followers today.
1982
ISUZU PRODUCES THE FIRST SPACE CAB MODEL
A proud year for Isuzu Motors and a lasting legacy, Isuzu produces the world's first Space Cab model.
1988
THE 3RD GEN ISUZU UTE IS RELEASED
The 3rd generation was released in 1988, which offered the widest body in its class, therefore enabling a roomier cabin. Additionally, the large door mirrors, side turn lamp signals and rear combination lamps improved the vehicle's visibility for greater safety.
1997
ISUZU'S 4TH GEN UTE HITS THE STREETS
Keeping ahead of global styling trends, Isuzu's 4th generation Ute hits the streets with a more refined exterior and a smooth aerodynamic design.
2002
THE INTERNATIONALLY BRANDED ISUZU D-MAX IS LAUNCHED
The internationally branded Isuzu D-MAX Ute is launched. It's the 5th generation of isuzu ute to carry Isuzu into the new millennium.
2008
THE ISUZU D-MAX IS LAUNCHED IN AUSTRALIA
Isuzu UTE Australia launches locally with the internationally branded D-MAX, taking on the tough local market with a powerful and efficient 3.0L common-rail turbo diesel engine.
2010
A STYLISH UPDATE STRENGTHENS THE AUSTRALIAN RANGE
The new look Isuzu D-MAX is launched to a demanding Australian audience, continuing the tradition of Isuzu UTE's tough, stylish and economical vehicle line-up.
2012
THE NEW GENERATION D-MAX
The totally new D-MAX launched a new era for Isuzu. With upgraded levels of power, comfort & safety, it kick started a new generation of Isuzu owners in Australia.
2013
THE ISUZU SUV REBORN
Eagerly anticipated for years, Isuzu brings back a serious 7-seat SUV that offers a balanced combination of performance, comfort, style and off-road ability. Sales commenced in Australia in December 2013.
2016
A century in the making
With a rich and extensive history dating back to 1916, Isuzu brings over 100 years of auto excellence to the automotive industry. Since 1916, Isuzu have been continually striving to engineer and build reliable and durable engines and vehicles, now with over 26 million diesel engines manufactured.
2017
PUMPED-UP EURO5 ENGINE
In a world first for Isuzu, the Isuzu D-MAX & MU-X launched with Euro5 emissions compliant drivetrain developed exclusively for Australia. With an upgraded 3.0L turbo diesel producing 430Nm of torque and a new 6-speed automatic & manual transmissions, the new D-MAX & MU-X aimed to impress in the demanding Australian market.
2018
Celebrating 10 years
Isuzu UTE Australia celebrates their 10 year anniversary and show no signs of slowing down. Over the last 10 years Isuzu UTE Australia has been dedicated to listening to Australian consumers’ feedback to continually improve both the D-MAX & MU-X. 2018 also marks the launch of the D-MAX LS-T with both 4x4 and 4x2 models joining the line-up.
2020
A NEW ERA FOR D-MAX
The dawn of a new era - the new generation Isuzu D-MAX landed in Australia. With unprecedented performance, comfort and safety, this was set to make history on Australian roads.
2021
The New MU-X Arrives
2024
A Bright Future
With both vehicles boasting the latest in Isuzu's tech, off-road and safety features, more drivers are going their own way with the Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X than ever before!
