Welcome

HELLO AND WELCOME to the latest edition of MAX*D magazine!

Believe it or not, my connection to Isuzu runs deeper than my role as Isuzu UTE Australia’s new Managing Director may suggest—it’s a story intertwined with cherished memories and generations of commitment to the brand. You see, both of my parents worked for Isuzu Japan, instilling in me a deep passion for this incredible global marque. Their dedication inspired me to follow in their footsteps, and here I am, honoured to be continuing their legacy in leading Isuzu UTE Australia.

On the topic of legacy, I must take a moment to tip my hat to my predecessor, Mr Hiroyasu Sato, who navigated our brand through a challenging few years locally. With Mr Sato at the helm, the brand has seen unprecedented growth, with IUA charting as one of Australia’s top-10 automotive brands for the first time, finishing as the 9th best-selling brand, with 35,323 vehicles sold and delivered in 2022.

Regarding growth, the recent monthly sales results are testament to just that— with the MU-X charting as the #1 selling vehicle in its segment. In March and April 2023, close to one-in-six large SUVs under $70k sold was an MU-X, with 1,745 and 1,095 examples delivered to Australian customers, respectively. On the other side of the Isuzu coin, the D-MAX continues to chart in the top-three utes sold and as a top-10 vehicle overall. All of this is thanks to you, our incredible customers who believe in our brand and choose us.

Two highlights of my first weeks at IUA were a research trip to rural Queensland and joining one of Isuzu’s customerfocused I-Venture Club (IVC) training events at Double Island Point.

I-Venture was created to empower owners to get the most out of their vehicles and explore the great outdoors. I distinctly remember my first IVC singleday event at the Sunshine State’s Double Island Point. The people I met and their stories of adventure and aspirations to travel our sunburnt country left me with a huge sense of pride. Next came a multi-day IVC trip—a format that has recently returned to the program—with a trip to Victoria’s High Country. You can read all about that one on page 16.

Like all editions of MAX*D, we trust this issue will inspire you and your loved ones to go your own way on this spectacular continent. I’m excited to bring my own family to Australia soon, so they too can experience the joy and adventure that comes with being a part of the Isuzu clan.

With a bit of luck, perhaps I might inspire my children to follow in their father’s footsteps to continue the Isuzu legacy even further. Here’s hoping.

Happy reading & motoring!

Junta Matsui Managing Director, Isuzu UTE Australia