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The New Isuzu D-Max Review - Tougher, Smarter, and More Capable
 
When it comes to pick-ups, few brands have as much street (and off-road) cred as Isuzu. Known for their unrelenting focus on durability and capability, Isuzu trucks are the ultimate go-to for professionals, adventurers, and anyone who demands a vehicle that can handle anything life throws at it. Enter the new Isuzu D-Max, a pick-up that not only builds on the legacy of toughness but also incorporates modern tech, premium features, and enhanced safety.
We headed down to The Gliding Centre to join the team for their D-Max launch event, and it’s fair to say we were absolutely in our element. Off-road courses, muddy terrain, and a closer look at a pick-up truck that truly excites—it was the perfect way to experience what the new D-Max has to offer.
 
The new D-Max is anything but shy. Its bold and assertive exterior redesign includes a revamped grille, sleek headlights, and a more angular front end that screams capability. Isuzu’s engineers have kept functionality at the forefront, but that doesn’t mean the D-Max has sacrificed on style.
 
The four available trims—Utility, DL20, DL40, and the range-topping V-Cross—each come with unique exterior features that suit different needs. The Utility model keeps it simple and rugged with heavy-duty black plastics, while the V-Cross offers dark grey metallic finishes, two-tone alloy wheels, and a sleek tailgate decal that exudes premium appeal.
 
Power Meets Capability
At the heart of the new D-Max is a robust 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 161 BHP and 360Nm of torque. Paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, this pick-up is built for the long haul, whether it’s on the motorway, tackling challenging off-road terrain, or towing heavy loads.
Speaking of towing, the D-Max can handle 3.5 tonnes, making it one of the most capable pick-ups in its class. Combine that with a 1-tonne payload, and you’ve got a vehicle that works as hard as you do. The rear differential lock and Rough Terrain Mode ensure that no matter the conditions—mud, snow, or rocky tracks—you’ll always feel in control.
 
Smarter and Safer Than Ever Before
Safety is where the D-Max truly shines. Across the range, you’ll find Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that elevate this truck to new levels of confidence on the road. 
Features include:
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): A lifesaver in busy city traffic or rural roads.
Blind Spot Monitor: Keeps you aware of what’s happening around you.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Braking: Ideal for tricky reversing situations in crowded areas.
Lane Keep Assist & Emergency Lane Keeping: For stress-free long drives.
And that’s just scratching the surface. Every variant of the D-Max now comes with seven airbags, and double-cab models include an eighth centre airbag for even greater protection. The cherry on top? A five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, proving this pick-up isn’t just rugged—it’s also safe for you and your family.
 
 
Off-Road-Ready Features
At the D-Max launch event, we were lucky enough to test its off-road chops, and it did not disappoint. With features like:
Rough Terrain Mode: Allocates power to the wheels with the most grip, perfect for those dicey moments on slippery slopes.
Shift-on-the-Fly 4WD System: Seamlessly switch between 2H, 4H, and 4L depending on your terrain.
Underbody Protection: A reinforced skid plate protects vital components when the going gets tough.
 
Whether you’re heading into the wilderness or navigating uneven farm tracks, the D-Max is more than up to the task.
 
Luxury Meets Practicality Inside
The interior of the D-Max has undergone a significant transformation, blending practicality with premium touches. From the driver’s seat, you’ll notice the horizontal, layered dashboard design, which creates an open, spacious feel. Soft-touch materials, premium stitching, and geometric accents elevate the experience, while durable surfaces in the Utility trim ensure this pick-up is as functional as it is stylish.
 
Interior Highlights:
Multi-Function Touchscreen: The Utility model starts with an 8” display, while the V-Cross gets a wireless 9” system with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™.
Dual-Zone Climate Control: Available from the DL40 trim upwards, ensuring comfort for every passenger.
Heated and Electrically Adjustable Seats: Standard on higher trims, with the V-Cross adding ventilation for the ultimate comfort.
Storage Galore: From door pockets to a centre console bin, sunglass holders, and multiple cup holders, the D-Max has thought of everything.
Rear passengers also benefit from increased legroom, thanks to a longer wheelbase, as well as reclining seatbacks and a rear ventilation panel on the DL40 and V-Cross models.
 
Technology That Works for You
Isuzu hasn’t just packed the D-Max with safety tech—it’s also loaded with gadgets to make life easier. The Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control system, for example, takes the stress out of long-distance driving by automatically adjusting to the speed of traffic. Meanwhile, the new Multi-Information Display (MID) keeps you informed about everything from tyre pressures to fuel economy at a glance.
 
Trim Levels to Suit Every Lifestyle
No matter what you’re looking for, the D-Max range has a model to suit your needs:
Utility: Built for hard work, this no-frills model is ideal for commercial use, with features like vinyl flooring, steel wheels, and a reversing camera.
DL20: A more refined offering with heated seats, alloy wheels, and a rear differential lock.
DL40: Adds luxury touches like leather upholstery, parking sensors, and Bi-LED headlights.
V-Cross: The top-tier trim, loaded with premium features, bold styling, and advanced tech.
Why the Isuzu D-Max Stands Out
What makes the D-Max such an appealing pick-up? For us, it’s the balance it strikes between rugged utility and modern sophistication. This is a vehicle that can tow heavy loads, tackle the roughest terrain, and carry your family in comfort—all while looking sharp and feeling high-tech.
 
We love a good pick-up truck here at Planetauto, and the D-Max has firmly cemented itself as one of our favourites. From its outstanding safety systems and off-road prowess to its premium interior and smart tech, it’s clear that Isuzu has thought of everything. Whether you’re a farmer, an off-road enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a tough, reliable vehicle, the D-Max has something for everyone.
 
Final Thoughts
The new Isuzu D-Max is more than just a facelift—it’s a complete evolution of what a pick-up truck can be. At the launch event, we were blown away by its capabilities, whether we were crawling through mud or cruising along the tarmac. It’s a truck that doesn’t just meet expectations—it exceeds them. So if you’re in the market for a pick-up that can handle whatever life throws at it, look no further than the D-Max. It’s smarter, tougher, and more versatile than ever, and it’s ready to take you anywhere you want to go.
 

Trim

Configuration

Price exc. VAT

 

Utility

Utility 4x2 Single Cab

£27,495.00

Utility 4x4 Single Cab w/ Diff Lock

£29,995.00

Utility 4x4 Extended Cab w/ Diff Lock

£30,795.00

Utility 4x4 Double Cab w/Diff Lock

£31,595.00

 

DL20

DL20 4x4 Extended Cab

£32,995.00

DL20 4x4 Double Cab

£33,395.00

DL20 4x4 Double Cab Automatic

£35,395.00

DL40

DL40 4x4 Double Cab

£36,495.00

DL40 4x4 Double Cab Automatic

£38,495.00

V-Cross

V-Cross 4x4 Double Cab

£37,995.00

V-Cross Double Cab Auto

£39,995.00


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