Test-Driving The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross

Forbes

5 days ago

Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
The Isuzu D-Max faces fierce competition, having done so since the first-generation pick-up was launched back in 2001. However, the latest guise is attractive, packed with tech, and is reasonably priced, but should you hand your hard-earned cash to Ford instead?
After a week of use, here are my thoughts on the Isuzu D-Max.
What Is The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross?
The V-Cross sits second from the top in Isuzu's D-Max pick-up range, costing £38,255 (OTR + VAT). Buyers can choose from five models: the entry-level Utility, the DL20 and DL40, V-Cross, and the range-topping Arctic Trucks AT35, which costs a mighty £57,005. My loaner was the V-Cross—think of it as Isuzu's answer to the Ford Ranger Wildtrak.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
All versions get the same 1.9-litre 162bhp 265lb ft engine found in the previous D-Max, and buyers can choose from a six-speed manual, with a lock-out to prevent you from accidentally choosing reverse instead of first gear, and a six-speed automatic, like the one tested here.
All Isuzu D-Max pick-ups come with four-wheel drive as standard, except the cheapest Utility guise, which is rear-wheel drive only. Likewise, each version will haul 3.5 tonnes and carry more than one tonne in payload.
My test car was also equipped with a hard top and a light bar - it looked the business.
Driving The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
The D-Max has always been a durable and dependable workhorse, but Isuzu has added a new Rough Terrain model for better off-road traction as part of a recent refresh. It also gets various safety and infotainment upgrades, but underneath, it's the same old no-nonsense pick-up truck.
I spent most of my time driving the D-Max on the road. Here, it performed well, although the 1.9-litre powerplant felt incredibly underpowered when overtaking or climbing hills. Likewise, diesel clatter is present under acceleration and the automatic gearbox, while smooth, hesitated before dropping cogs.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross interior
Its turning circle is mighty impressive at 12.5 meters. It outperforms the Ford Ranger here, and means it's less cumbersome when navigating through tight towns.
It gets an overhauled infotainment system, and all versions get an 8.0-inch screen as standard, while the V-Cross gets a larger 9.0-inch screen. The system is easy to use and the touchscreen is quick enough.
Its interior won't win any design awards, but everything inside the D-Max is functional, the materials are solid, and there's plenty of room in the back for two adults and a medium-sized dog.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Practicality And Load Space
The Double Cab's bed offers 1,520mm versus the Single Cab's 2,290mm, putting the former at the lower end of the market.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross load bed
With the hard top equipped, my loaner's space was reduced even further. It was also fitted with a zipped carpet that could be removed with a wrestle, but I found it easier to blanket the rear during skip runs.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Verdict
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is a handsome and durable brute capable of towing 3.5 tonnes, like its rivals.
It's not anywhere near as polished or as powerful as the Ford Ranger, but the latest refresh has added much-needed refinement.
Therefore, if you need a pick-up truck that'll keep on trucking, the D-Max is a fantastic choice. The Isuzu D-Max is easy to use, is capable off-road, will carry lots if you choose the right body, and comes with a generous warranty.