2022 Isuzu D-Max review
The comprehensive Isuzu D-Max review
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finder score: 81.5%
4 critics
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Critic reviews
Website | Rating | Quotes | |
CarExpert | 82% | "The Isuzu D-Max is priced right up against the top-selling Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, but it justifies the ask." | Read more |
Drive | 84% | "From our very first test drive, we felt that the 2021 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain had the chops to head straight to the top of the dual-cab class." | Read more |
WhichCar | 80% | "If you're thinking about a Ranger or HiLux, Isuzu's new-generation flagship D-Max is here to make you think again." | Read more |
Chasing Cars | 80% | "An all-new Isuzu D-Max sees the 4×4 ute move from near bottom of the class to near the top as it brings style, features and safety to match its renowned ability." | Read more |
Finder's Alex Jeffs has also tested the ute; be sure to read his 2021 Isuzu D-Max review.
How does the Isuzu D-Max compare with its peers?
A comprehensive review of the 2021 Isuzu D-Max
Isuzu D-Max pricing and specifications
For 2022, the Isuzu D-Max model line-up is more streamlined. You can buy the D-Max as a single, space (also called a king or super cab by other brands) or double cab-chassis model. You can also choose from a single, space or double cab pick-up.
Isuzu D-Max SX
With the Isuzu D-Max SX, buyers have the choice of 2 engines. The most affordable is a 1.9-litre turbo diesel, as a tray back, RWD single chassis cab manual transmission model. Currently, this D-Max is on special offer, with a limited-time driveaway deal of $29,990.
(the normal recommended driveaway price is $37,969).
A 3.0-litre turbo diesel model starts at $40,029driveaway.
SL D-Max starts from $38,351 driveaway.
Stand-out features include:
- 7-inch touch display, with voice recognition
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 4-speaker audio system
- Auto headlights, high beams and windscreen wipers
- Keyless entry
- Easy-to-clean vinyl flooring
- 17-inch steel wheels
- 8 airbags
- 6-way manually adjustable driver's seat
- Adaptive cruise control (ACC), with stop & go (automatic transmission only)
- Advanced safety features, like:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Emergency lane keeping (ELK)
- Forward collision warning (FCW)
- Lane departure warning (LDW)
- Rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA)
- Traffic sign recognition (TSR)
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
- Manual air-conditioning
- Steering-wheel-mounted controls
- Reverse camera
- Halogen reflector headlamps
For a work ute, the SX has a respectable specification and it should be very comfortable compared with older utes.
Isuzu D-Max LS-M
Following the SX is the LS-M trim. This model is available only as a crew-cab ute body, with a starting recommended driveaway price of $56,683.
Highlight specs include:
- 17-inch alloys
- 6-speaker sound system
- Terrain Command 4x4 system
- Rear diff-lock
- Bi-LED projector headlights (with auto-levelling)
- Body colour door handles
- LED daytime running lights (DRL)
- LED fog lamps
- Steel underbody guards for sump and transfer case
- Upper and lower gloveboxes (as opposed to lower only on SX)
All-in, not a bad specification for the money, but reviewers seemed to favour the higher-specced LS-U or X-Terrain.
Isuzu D-Max LS-U
Move up a grade and you'll have to spend from $56,053 driveaway for the LS-U D-Max. That's for a RWD crew cab ute body.
In addition to the LS-M, the LS-U D-Max boasts:
- 18-inch alloys
- 9-inch touch display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Built-in satellite navigation with multi-information display (MID)
- Sky Sound 8-speaker audio system (roof-mounted)
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Chrome exterior accents
- Leather steering wheel
- Factory-installed tow bar receiver
- LED combination lights
- Underrail tub-liner
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Carpet flooring
- Dual-zone A/C with heater and demister
- Driver's seat power-adjustable lumbar support
- Push-button ignition
- Smart keyless entry
You get a lot of tech with an LS-U D-Max.
Isuzu D-Max LS-U+
If you want a little more tech, the LS-U+ might be for you, which starts from $67,061 driveaway.
Here's what you get for the extra outlay:
- 8-way driver's power-adjustable seat
- Leather-accented seat upholstery
- Heated front seats and door mirrors
- Illuminated vanity mirrors for driver and front passenger
Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain
For the top-spec X-Terrain, understandably, you pay more. Normally, this model starts from $71,261. In January 2022, this model was on special offer with a driveaway price of $62,990.
Here's why Isuzu charges more for the X-Terrain:
- Leather-accented seats, with contrast red stitching
- Front parking sensors
- Aero sports bar
- Dark grey door handles, folding power mirrors, radiator grille, side steps and tailgate handle
- Front and back underbody spoilers
- Matte black roller tonneau cover
- 100kg capacity roof rails
- Remote engine ignition
Click on a price to compare car loans for the Isuzu D-Max.
Isuzu D-Max SX | Isuzu D-Max LS-M | Isuzu D-Max LS-U | Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ | Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain |
1.9-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed manual, single-cab chassis: $37,952 1.9-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed automatic, single-cab chassis: $40,011 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed manual, single-cab chassis: $40,011 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed automatic, single-cab chassis: $42,071 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed automatic, space-cab chassis: $45,418 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab ute: $47,115 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed manual, single-cab chassis: $48,251 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab chassis: $48,349 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, single-cab chassis: $50,313 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed manual, space-cab chassis: $51,630 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, space-cab chassis: $53,730 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed manual, crew-cab chassis: $54,621 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab ute: $55,511 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab chassis: $56,721 | 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab chassis: $59,976 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed manual, crew-cab ute: $56,666 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab ute: $58,766 | 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x2, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab ute: $56,036 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, space-cab ute: $61,286 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed manual, crew-cab ute: $62,336 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab ute: $64,436 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab chassis: $65,646 | 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab ute: $67,061 | 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4x4, 6-speed automatic, crew-cab ute: $71,261 |
You can only have your Isuzu D-Max painted in a single no-cost option: Mineral White.
Premium paint finishes include:
- Basalt Black Mica
- Cobalt Blue Mica
- Mercury Silver Metallic
- Obsidian Grey Metallic
Those cost $500.
For LS-U, LS-U+ and X-TERRAIN models, the following $500 paint colours are sold:
- Marble White Pearl
- Magnetic Red Mica
The top-flight X-Terrain has an exclusive colour, Volcanic Amber Metallic.
Overview
Analysing the findings of 4 motoring experts, it seems with the new D-Max, Isuzu got very little wrong and so much right. It boasts a large and capable diesel engine. Its safety tech sets a bar that other ute makers will have to match. It handles well and is generously equipped. While the prices may have risen and it does display some of the common ute-quirks, it's easy to see why the model finished the 2021 sales year as the sixth best-selling Australian model outright and one of the top 3 most popular pick-ups. There were a few minor quibbles, but no deal-breakers. If you're looking for a ute, the D-Max should go directly onto your shortlist.
Website | Pros | Cons | Notable quote |
CarExpert |
|
| "Overall, the D-Max has taken a big step up with the latest generation. Isuzu wants it to be one of the top 3 best-selling utes in Australia, and it certainly deserves to be up there." |
Drive |
|
| "Now though, they have something to get genuinely excited about thanks to a quality offering that feels both insulated and premium while also being robust and solid. The new D-Max pushed its way bullishly to the top of the segment thanks to standard inclusions, value for money and a quality drive experience." |
WhichCar |
|
| "All in all, the D-Max X-Terrain is one of the better dual-cab offerings on the market, as evidenced by its second-place result in our recent ute mega test. It's a big step forward over its predecessor, with improved road manners, benchmark safety and plenty of equipment." |
Chasing Cars |
|
| "While the default choice for many remains ol' faithful Toyota HiLux or pretty boy Ford Ranger, this much-improved Isuzu D-Max makes a fair shout for best all-rounder in the lifestyle ute segment. Safety and equipment levels are very strong, it looks tough and stylish, the cabin's well-built and well-appointed and that 3.0-litre motor has known reliability and economy." |
Engine and performance
Isuzu equips the D-Max with one of two turbocharged diesel engines, a 1.9-litre or a 3.0-litre. As with many of its rivals, the Isuzu D-Max no longer has a petrol engine option.
Isuzu 1.9-litre diesel engine
The 1.9-litre D-Max engine is one of the RZ4E-TC series Isuzu engines. This power unit is an inline 4-cylinder. Peak power measures 110kW at 3,600RPM. Torque is a respectable 350Nm from 1,800-2,600RPM. This engine is only available on workhorse spec SX utes.
Isuzu 3.0-litre diesel engine
The main staple of the Isuzu D-Max is a 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine. This powerplant is from the 4JJ3-TCX line – which is an inline 4-cylinder. It has 450Nm, across a wider rev band range of 1,600-2,600RPM. Peak power is also higher, 140kW at 3,600RPM.
Compare that to its rivals and the D-Max has 10kW fewer than the Toyota HiLux 2.8-litre turbo diesel. The HiLux, with an automatic transmission, also has more torque (500Nm, across a 1,200RPM range – from 1,600-2,800RPM). The 3.2-litre and 2.0-litre diesel Ford Ranger are also more powerful and both of those engines have more torque.
Car reviewers' impressions of the Isuzu D-Max engine and transmission line-up
How did car reviewers review the D-Max engine line-up?
One tester who was driving an LS-M with an automatic said the engine had decent low down muscle and it was easily controllable. They said the automatic shifted cogs fluidly. They also noticed that the 3.0-litre had an absence of turbo lag.
Another source, driving an X-Terrain, labelled the Isuzu's diesel heart as brawny. They said its performance was splendid, right from the off, even while towing. However, that same reviewer longed for a few extra automatic speeds, rather than just 6.
A third reviewer noted that the 3.0-litre engine is now more powerful and torquey. They also observed it was more hushed and cultivated than before, though, like all the reviewers, they said when pushed, the engine gets a bit vocal. That's to be expected. This motoring journalist said the way the torque band kicked in meant the D-Max has plenty of zip. This expert also found the transmission was a dependable operator.
The final journo recounted how the 3.0-litre turbo diesel responded freely. In fact, they reported that even though on paper it's down on power, it builds speed almost effortlessly. They disclosed it was capable while overtaking and that the transmission was the perfect tag-team member for the engine. This motoring writer believed that there was no need for Isuzu to add extra gears to the transmission because it was so well engineered.
Isuzu D-Max engine and transmission figures
1.9-litre turbo diesel | 3.0-litre turbo diesel | |
Engine type | Turbocharged, common rail, direct fuel injection, 16 valve, double over head cam (DOHC) with diesel particulate diffuser (DPD) | Turbocharged, common rail, direct fuel injection, 16 valve, double over head cam (DOHC), with diesel particulate diffuser (DPD) |
Drivetrain | RWD | RWD or 4WD |
Engine size/displacement | 1,898cc | 2,999cc |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Cylinders | 4, inline | |
Fuel tank capacity | 76 litres | |
Max. power | 110kW @ 3,600rpm | 140kW @ 3,600RPM |
Max. torque | 350Nm @ 1,800-2,600RPM | 450Nm @ 1,600-2,600RPM |
Fuel consumption (best model, combined) | 7.0L/100km (single-cab chassis SX) | 7.7L/100km (various) |
Acceleration (0-100km/h) | N/A | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Top speed (km/h) | N/A | |
Security | Engine immobiliser | |
Transmission | 6-speed manual (or 6-speed automatic) | |
Towing capacity (unbraked/braked) | 750kg/Up to 3,000kg | 750kg/Up to 3,000kg |
Isuzu D-Max fuel economy
We use the government's Green Vehicle Guide website to source our fuel economy figures.
1.9-litre turbo diesel
For the 1.9-litre turbo diesel D-Max (fitted to some SX models) with a manual gearbox, the fuel economy figures are given as:
- Combined: 7.0L/100km
- Urban: 8.1L/100km
- Extra: 6.5L/100km
Travelling 14,000km per year in this D-Max, two-thirds of the time in urban environments, the Green Vehicle Guide estimates you'd spend $1,428 at the petrol station.
Automatic models are listed on the database as using the following:
- Combined: 7.0L/100km
- Urban: 7.9L/100km
- Extra: 6.6L/100km
Under the above driving conditions, you'd outlay an estimated $1,409.
3.0-litre turbo diesel
Moving up to the 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine, fuel economy dips slightly.
- Combined: 7.3-8.0L/100km
- Urban: 9.2-10.2L/100km
- Extra: 6.2-6.9L/100km
With those figures, the D-Max would cost between $1,546 and $1,702 in diesel per year.
Fuel economy figures: Use for comparison only
Carmakers put their cars through regulated testing procedures to discover the fuel economy. Because all cars go through the same standardised assessment, you can compare brochure figures to evaluate models from different brands. However, the testing procedure, while it attempts to emulate real-world traffic conditions as best as possible, still doesn't manage to reflect all the variables you encounter on public roads. Things like traffic levels, your local geography, the way you drive and even how well maintained your vehicle is all impact the realistically achievable fuel economy.
How much diesel did the Isuzu D-Max use on public roads?
Motoring testers helpfully revealed the fuel consumption they experienced with their press cars. It is not uncommon for deviations of 1-2.0L/100km from the brochure figures.
How does the D-Max measure up then?
One reviewer logged a 0.3L/100km (higher) difference than the combined figure, so that's good. Those findings were supported by another outlet who logged figures between 0.2 and 0.7L/100km more than the brochure data. The higher number was a result of driving on a beach, where speeds would likely be low and the sandy ground provides a lot of rolling resistance.
A third motoring journalist managed 8.9L/100km. They also remarked that even when pushing the engine, the ute indicated it was burning upper 9.0s. They then surmised this was a good signal that the D-Max is pretty frugal when working hard.
The final motoring expert logged fuel use around 8.7L/100km, so well under the 1.0L/100km margin that is often reported when testing a vehicle on public roads. They did average out 10.4L/100km (across 1 week of mostly urban driving).
Overall, the D-Max manages to return fuel economy that is close to the official brochure data, well within the margin we often see. You should note, only one of the journos confirmed the ute was unladen during testing.
Handling
Nowadays, a ute isn't just a commercial vehicle. Drivers expect a ute to cope with everything that is thrown at it, whether that's driving the kids to school or towing a heavy boat trailer.
How does the D-Max measure up then?
First off, steering. Car reviewers found the D-Max steered like a car, requiring minimum effort or muscle. They also determined it wasn't inexact as some larger vehicles are. One journo found the steering feel wasn't massively responsive, but they did believe that the D-Max was better than many of its direct competitors. At low speeds, where you need to spin the wheel lock-to-lock and back again multiple times (like parking), the panel said the electric power steering worked wonders, requiring minimal exertion from the driver. One of the reviewers wrote that the steering of the D-Max made the ute feel higher quality and was confidence-inspiring.
What about the ride? Unlike Nissan with the Navara and its multi-link suspension, Isuzu has (like the majority of ute builders) stuck to time-proven (and heavy-duty) rear leaf springs. One of the journos explained the D-Max was comfy and didn't amplify bumps in the roads. That same tester remarked the latest D-Max is a huge progression over its predecessor. Obviously, as a commercial vehicle at heart, designed to carry heavy weights, when the tray is totally empty, the ride is a little jarring. That's just a side-effect of having heavy-duty suspension, capable of hauling big payloads. Another tester perceived that the D-Max was well adapted to use on Aussie roads.
Importantly, a car reviewer determined that the handling, steering and interior noise didn't fall apart as speeds rose, making it a decent ute for highway driving. Generally, in ute terms, it seems the D-Max is well mannered and accomplished.
Interior and equipment
What's the interior of the Isuzu D-Max like?
One motoring journalist pronounced the D-Max's interior was designed in a user-friendly manner and that the ute's cabin was contemporary. Another reviewer backed this up, adding that the current Isuzu D-Max was a big step forward versus the previous model.
Build quality was given a specific shout out, with testers holding the opinion that the D-Max's interior was well designed and fastened together.
A couple of testers bemoaned the lack of wireless smartphone charging, which is becoming increasingly commonplace nowadays. Another commented that the graphics of the information display were quite fussy, though they did like that it has a digital speedo. Something else that niggled one tester was the skinny footrest for the driver, though you'll want to test that for yourself to see if you have an issue with it. Another thought the leather seat upholstery was too slippy and didn't like the X-Terrain's gloss black trim inserts because they highlighted dust particles and fingerprints. Also, one thought that the 7-inch touchscreen fitted to LS-M and SX trims seemed a bit low-cost, compared to the 9-inch available on higher-end D-Max variants. Finally, one of the journos decided that the lane departure system was a little too keen, but they conceded this could be deactivated.
Supposedly, the seats are highly comfortable, managing to tread the line between soft yet supportive. This seems like a divisive topic, as one tester lamented that the seat bases were overly flat and not that long, resulting in thighs that felt unsupported. Another reviewer, driving an X-Terrain, enjoyed the synthetic-leather-clad seats, saying they had a premium feel and were more than comfortable for prolonged stretches behind the wheel. These findings were repeated by another tester, who determined they were suitably sculpted to accept the human form.
For rear passengers (in crew cabs), it appears that there's as much room for your legs, head and feet as the class average. On crew cabs, back seat occupants have rear air vents, which is always good to see. All D-Max crew cabs but the SX variant have a rear USB plug too, which is becoming essential. One of the reviewers did say the rear centre seat was a tad narrow, meaning it was geared more towards children rather than someone larger.
Reviewers said the D-Max (crew cab) had plenty of storage bins and cubbies. Every trim above the SX has a split glovebox, with upper and lower tiers. There are pop-up cup holders positioned on the outer end of the dashboard, which one tester noted was ideally located so that the climate air vents could blow cool or hot air onto them. In the front, there's also a tray that'll hold a phone, a covered tray on the top of the dashboard and a centre console bin. Doors have bottle bulges. Neatly, Isuzu included under-seat storage in the rear, making it a good place to store valuable, but not huge tools or devices. You can see the space in this video:
Isuzu D-Max SX | Isuzu D-Max LS-M | Isuzu D-Max LS-U | Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ | Isuzu D-Max X-TERRAIN | |
ANCAP rating | 5 star (tested 2020) | ||||
Airbags (8):
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Passenger's side SRS airbag on/off switch | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Anti-lock brake system (ABS), with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Electronic stability control (ESC) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Traction control system (TCS) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Emergency brake assist (EBA) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Hill start assist (HSA) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Hill descent control (HDC) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Turn assist with AEB | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Reversing camera | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Front parking sensors | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Rear parking sensors | ✖️ | Crew cab ute | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Post-collision braking | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Forward collision warning (FCW) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Misacceleration mitigation | Auto only | Auto only | Auto only | ✔ | ✔ |
Adaptive cruise control (ACC), with stop & go | Auto only | Auto only | Auto only | ✔ | ✔ |
Traffic sign recognition (TSR) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Manual speed limiter | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Intelligent speed limiter | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Lane departure prevention (LDP) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Lane departure warning (LDW) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Lane keep assist (LKA) | Auto only | Auto only | Auto only | ✔ | ✔ |
Emergency lane keeping (ELK) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Lane support system (LSS) switch (disables LDW, LDP, LKA and ELK) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Driver attention assist | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Blind spot monitoring (BSM) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Height-adjustable support seatbelt fixing | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
All seats, intelligent seatbelt reminder | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
ISOFIX points | Crew cab | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Side anti-intrusion bars in all doors | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Rear window demister | Not single-cab chassis | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
High-mounted brake light | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Engine immobiliser | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Underbody front steel skid plate | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Underbody steel guards for sump, fuel tank leading edge and transfer case | 4x4 models | ✔ | 4x4 models | ✔ | ✔ |
Reinforced resin under fuel tank | 4x4 models | ✔ | 4x4 models | ✔ | ✔ |
Halogen projector lens headlights | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Bi-LED headlights (with auto-level function) | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Automatic headlamps | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Auto high beam | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
LED daytime running lights (DRLs) | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
LED fog lights | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
LED rear combination lamps | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Auto windscreen wipers | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Day/night rearview mirror | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Auto-dimming rearview mirror | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Front bucket seat, with whiplash protection | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Full-size steel spare wheel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Isuzu D-Max interior and comfort features
Isuzu D-Max SX | Isuzu D-Max LS-M | Isuzu D-Max LS-U | Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ | Isuzu D-Max X-TERRAIN | |
7-inch infotainment touchscreen | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
9-inch infotainment touchscreen | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Satellite-navigation with multi-information display directions | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Smart multi-information display with digital speedo, safety info, fuel economy/range, odometer, trip info and servicing reminders) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
4-speaker audio system | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
6-speaker audio system | ✖️ | ✔ | Space cab | ✖️ | ✖️ |
8-speaker "Sky Sound" audio system | ✖️ | ✖️ | Crew cab | ✔ | ✔ |
6-way adjustable driver's seat | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
8-way power-adjustable driver's seat | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Heated front seats | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Dual-zone climate control A/C with integrated heater & demister | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Manual A/C with integrated heater & demister | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Rear seat A/C vents | Crew cab | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel with power steering | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Urethane steering wheel (with cruise, audio and voice recognition controls) | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Leather steering wheel (with cruise, audio and voice recognition controls) | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Wipe-down vinyl flooring | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Carpet flooring | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Electric windows (one-touch up/down for driver) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Central locking (with keyless entry) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Smart keyless entry & walk away lock | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Push-button ignition | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Remote engine starting | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Power-adjustable door mirrors | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Power-adjustable door mirrors, with turn indicators | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Rear centre console USB charging socket | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Electro-luminescent gauges | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Sun visors with vanity mirrors (driver & passenger) – with ticket-holding band (driver's side) | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Illuminated sun visors with vanity mirrors (driver & passenger) – with ticket-holding band (driver's side) | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Lower glovebox | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Upper and lower glovebox | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Power outlet in lower instrument panel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Centre console – floor | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Overhead console with dual map lights and sunglasses case | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Dual-use driver & front passenger cupholders | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Front door storage bins with bottle holder | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Rear occupants door cupholders | Crew cab | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Folding convenience hook behind front passenger seat | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Tool storage behind rear seats | Space cab & crew cab | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Tool storage behind front seats | Single cab | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Pollen & air fine particle cabin filter | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Isuzu D-Max exterior highlights
Isuzu D-Max SX | Isuzu D-Max LS-M | Isuzu D-Max LS-U | Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ | Isuzu D-Max X-TERRAIN | |
17-inch steel wheels | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
17-inch alloy wheels | ✖️ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
18-inch alloy wheels | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | Dark grey |
All-terrain tyres | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Highway-terrain tyres | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Matte grey radiator grille | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Chrome grey radiator grille | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ |
Dark grey radiator grille | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Rear bumper – black | ✔ | ✔ | Crew cab chassis | ✖️ | ✖️ |
Factory-equipped tow bar receiver | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Aluminium side steps | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ | ✖️ |
Dark grey side steps | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Door and tailgate handles colour | Black | Body-colour | Chrome | Chrome | Dark Grey |
Aero sports bar | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Matte black roller tonneau cover | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Front and back underbody spoilers | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Dark grey fender flares | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Black roof rails | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ |
Door mirrors | Black, power | Colour-coded, power (with turn signals) | Chrome, power (with turn signals) | Chrome, power (with turn signals) | Chrome, fold-in, power (with turn signals) |
Heated door mirrors | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✖️ | ✔ | ✔ |
Verdict
The latest D-Max model is a huge step forward for the brand. It's got a large displacement, muscular engine. The safety equipment fitted is class-leading and reviewers found it was solid to drive. They also believed it was impressively equipped and assembled. The specification is very comprehensive and all around, the D-Max seems like it's got the whole package.
One area the reviewers universally listed as a downside was the price, which is higher than previous generations of the ute. But, Isuzu has to make back the money they've clearly invested in re-engineering and improving the D-Max.
If you're looking for a ute, you should definitely put the D-Max on your shortlist and take one for a test drive.
This Isuzu D-Max review combines the views of 4 different car reviewers, helping you save time. Now you have some newly found spare time, it's well worth taking a moment to compare car insurance and car loans; doing this can save you hundreds of dollars!
Compare finance options for an Isuzu D-Max
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Pictures: Isuzuute.com.au
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