Isuzu D-Max broadens its appeal with a more rounded experience

South Wales Argus

30-04-2025

The latest version has broader appeal than its predecessors, offering a more rounded experience.
Traditionally, the D-Max has always appealed to drivers who want a no-nonsense truck with go-anywhere capabilities, and that hasn't changed.
But Isuzu has added an extra layer of quality to the vehicle by improving its on-road manners to allow it to double as a family-orientated alternative to SUVs.
The front end of the Isuzu D-Max In double-cab guise, it's the sort of vehicle that's robust enough to use on a building site or farmyard during the week, and comfortable enough to take on a family trip at the weekend.
The low-speed ride is slightly fidgety when the rear bed isn't loaded, but it settles down nicely once it's loaded up.
Once you get up to higher speeds, you notice a real difference in refinement when compared to previous models.
At speed, the ride evens out nicely and the D-Max will cruise along quite happily at motorway speeds, feeling relatively smooth for a vehicle primarily designed as a robust workhorse.
On one outing, I drove for more than 100 miles, including many motorway miles, and didn't get out at the other end feeling like I'd been rattling around in an agricultural vehicle.
The vehicle now offers a more rounded experience The cabin is fairly well insulated from wind noise and tyre roar, although you inevitably hear some noise from the 1.9-litre diesel engine under heavy acceleration.
The turbocharged diesel unit feels punchy, providing 162bhp and 360Nm of torque.
The steering has a light feel, making it easier than you might think to manoeuvre a vehicle of this size.
The six-speed automatic gearbox works well, generally selecting the right cog for the situation. The only time it can seem a bit indecisive is when going up a steep hill, but you soon get used to the level of acceleration you need to apply to help it make its mind up!
The interior of the D-Max I had previously had the chance to test the vehicle in challenging off road conditions.
The all-new 'Rough Terrain Mode' (RTM) is the type of tech you didn't realise you needed until it arrived, but it serves to further cement the D-Max's status as a go-anywhere vehicle.
As an extended feature of the already-impressive Traction Control System, the new feature further reduces wheelspin and allocates power to the wheels with the most grip.
On a treacherous off-road course, the RTM proved valuable on the steep and slippery climbs and descents. The system, called forth by the simple press of a button, fine-tunes the throttle and can rapidly apply the brakes to each spinning wheel. Notably, it can also work in tandem with differential lock in very extreme conditions.
Having done a quite satisfactory yet challenging first lap of the off-road route without engaging RTM, it was apparent on Lap 2 just how helpful the system can be, providing sensational levels of stability in terrain where most would fear to tread.
The side profile of the vehicle Inside, there's a much-improved infotainment system and stereo. The multimedia technology has been upgraded, providing wireless smartphone mirroring across the range and part-digital instruments at the top of the trim trail.
A few design flourishes have been added to the cabin, but you don't have to look far to find scratchy plastics, although that's not necessarily a bad thing if you're looking for a durable vehicle.
The exterior look has been refreshed thanks to a bolder radiator grille design, which combines nicely with the sleek headlights and angular bonnet.
Each new model comes with 125,000 mile/five-year warranty and five years UK and European roadside assistance.
The D-Max has a towing capabilities of 3.5 tonnes and a maximum payload of 1,205kg.
The D-Max has already secured three prestigious awards for 2025, including Best Range, Best Back-Up, and Sustainability accolades from Overlander 4x4 magazine.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross double cab
ENGINE: 1.9-litre turbo diesel
POWER: 164ps
PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph time of 12.8 seconds
WARRANTY: Five-year 125,000 miles
MANUAL PRICE: £37,995
AUTOMATIC PRICE:: £39,995
PAYLOAD: 1-tonne