Bigger brawn, better living … that’s the promise from the new 2.2-litre turbodiesel.

AN engine transplant seems upcoming for Isuzu’s DNA-shared entries into the one-tonne ute and spin-off sports utility sectors, but will Kiwis be aware?

Under bonnet revision to th D-Max and MU-X seven seater SUV is a key alteration coming to the models.

The types will retain the 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel that captures interest here,. But a 1.9-litre entry engine has been retired in favour of a 2.2-litre promising more power and torque.

A heads up on this comes via Australia, where the new types are impending. Since Isuzu’s distributor in New Zealand adopts a largely common line-up with our neighbour, the refreshed types are very likely to land here as well. The national operator has yet to advise of what it plans here.

The new EURO5 RZ4F-TC engine provisions 120kW/400Nm, whereas the 1.9 made 110kW/350Nm, and is matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission and has start-stop technology.

Isuzu cites fuel consumption has lowered to 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres – down from 6.7 to 7.0L/100km. It has yet to publish emissions data, but expectation is that it will be cleaner than the 1.9 and the 3.0-litre, which is also about to update to stop-start, but will drive on with its existing six-speed auto. Outputs of 140kW/450Nm from the flagship engine are expected to continue.

The new figures stand to become an important consideration as fuel economy expectations and CO2 legislation requirements are about to lower in Australia and here.

On December 31 New Zealand adopts the tightening Australian rules to achieve dual market continuity.

Isuzu says the 2.2 will provide “a pragmatic option for motorists who value reliability, affordability, and driveability.”

The RZ4F engine generates 255Nm of torque from just 1000rpm – an increase of almost 60 percent over the previous 1.9. Peak torque of 400Nm arrives between 1600 and 2400rpm, while maximum power is achieved at 3600rpm.

The 2.2L also achieves the same 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity as the 3.0-litre; the 1.9 was limited to 3000kg. The 2.2s retain a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating.