Isuzu D-Max Never Disappoint You

When we wrote an overview for Isuzu, we chose the D-Max, which has been the brand's only passenger car sold in the UK since the Trooper SUV was withdrawn from the market in 2002. Isuzu vehicles are primarily used for commercial and public service vehicles, which is why the D-Max has failed to become a household name in the consumer market. In fact, Isuzu sold only 3,154 units in the UK last year, compared to the Toyota Hilux and Ford Rover, which sold about 6,000 and 13,000 units, respectively. But Isuzu is about to launch the latest Isuzu D-Max, and if all goes well, that could change.

The D-Max is now in its third generation, and you might still call it a "beast". If your country is located in Southeast Asia, you're probably already familiar with the Isuzu D-Max (ดีแม็ก in Thailand), which has overtaken Thailand's unbeatable Hilux to top the segment later in 2019. The previous-generation Isuzu pickup was a huge disappointment to many consumers, being only an affordable 4 x 4 load-hauler. Its infotainment system and agricultural powertrain were slow, and its towing capacity and equipment list were not updated. But now, with the introduction of the all-new D-Max, it's clear that Isuzu wants us to look at it from a completely different perspective. It remains true to its "smarter, stronger, safer" philosophy, and a cursory glance at the new truck's chrome front end and clearly SUV-inspired dashboard layout shows just how far this unassuming vehicle has come.

William Brown, Isuzu's UK managing director, has publicly stated that the impending exit of competitors such as the Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara and the first-generation Volkswagen Amarok is very much in the D-Max's favor. The brand hopes to reach 10,000 sales per year of the Isuzu D-Max by 2025 and has recently appointed 11 new dealers to cope with the expected increase in demand, eight of which are Mitsubishi franchised dealers. We reviewed the Isuzu D-Max, an auto-camouflaged double cab priced at £32,759, which is expected to be the best-selling model. Gunmetal Grey exterior trim elements, fancy 18-inch alloy wheels and clusters of LED lights create a clear visual distinction. And additions to the interior include a larger touchscreen, leather-style seats, dual-zone climate control, a reversing camera and key-less entry. All variants have an integrated rear step, a full suite of driver assistance equipment, Bluetooth connectivity, DAB radio and a USB port.

No matter how close the D-Max comes to mimicking a passenger-carrying suv, you have to remember that Isuzu doesn't make such a vehicle. For one thing, it's a workhorse at heart, so bringing lofty expectations of class and grandeur is sure to disappoint you. The latest generation comes standard with a 4.2-inch digital display, an up-to-date and advanced central touchscreen, and an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat. This is a reflection of Isuzu's pursuit of the "lifestyle" market. But it certainly retains some of the features of its slightly rougher predecessor. There are power windows everywhere and wireless smartphone mirroring. Regardless of expectations, there's little missing in terms of kit.

Remarkably, the Isuzu D-Max is the only car in its class to earn a five-star Euro NCAP rating, thanks largely to its larger airbags, beefed-up chassis and upgraded advanced driver aids. It will take you to a controlled, straight stopping point, which is certainly an appreciated capability for those who spend a lot of time on heavy farms and buildings, or driving on narrow country roads. First impressions count, and if you give the D-Max the opportunity to show off its off-road capabilities first, its chances of making a lasting impression increase. the D-Max is truly unfathomable in its abilities, and it deserves to be explored, admired, and marveled at!