Isuzu D-Max 

Review and road test of the Isuzu D-Max

We absolutely love pick-ups at TYSONCOOPER and always have. Over the years we have sold thousands of them to customers who simply love the versatility they offer. For many the vehicle discount schemes we deliver for the likes of Fram Farmers, Woldmarsh, Aspatria, RICS, ICAEW and RIBA are also a key factor.

Pick-ups, and particularly double cab pick-ups serve many purposes, especially with the latest crop of products that can carry over a tonne and tow 3 ½ tonnes. They also drive as well on the motorway as they do across fields and down tracks, all whilst offering SUV-like comforts in the cabin.  

Company car tax changes

There has also been a cloud hanging over these vehicles as far as company car tax are concerned. Many never actually “work” and merely only “play” thereby acting as a very tax-efficient “company car”.

Their very existence was therefore threatened earlier this year when the government announced they would be taxing them as cars for all vehicles ordered after 1^st July. This would also affect how they were treated by businesses in terms of capital allowances.

Thankfully sense prevailed and after much lobbying by industry, including construction, agriculture, and transportation, where a lot of these vehicles ply their trade, the government underwent a huge double cab pick-up size U-turn and a return to the status quo swiftly followed.

Choice has diminished in recent years, with both the Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi L200 being withdrawn from the UK leaving only three key players left. This is the Toyota Hi-Lux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max.

D-Max popularity

The D-Max has always found good favour with farmers and commercial users, but previous incarnations have failed to match the on-road prowess and comforts afforded by its competitors. That was until this latest version which arrived in the UK in 2021, which was also around the time both Nissan and Mitsubishi were departing.

Some may remember that years ago Mazda produced a pick-up [B-Series], and whilst they no longer sell them in the UK they are very much still in this market and have had a sizeable hand in the making of the latest D-Max. In particular, a much smarter car-like cabin and road driving dynamics that even the hardest of users still look for in their truck.

Isuzu D-Max test drive

Our demo was the range-topping V-Cross Auto which looks resplendent in Biarritz Blue metallic. This was contrasted with black alloy wheels, side steps, sports bar, and roller shutter. In the looks department, this latest D-Max is already scoring highly.

At 164PS the D-Max has the least power of the three, with both Ford and Toyota offering just over 200PS. Although we noticed a little more engine noise under acceleration from the D-Max it quickly rescinded once speeds were reached so it doesn’t feel like a slouch by any stretch.

One key advantage employed by the D-Max is that the smaller engine has helped it lose weight. It therefore falls under the weight limit separating goods vehicles from passenger cars, so can be driven at passenger car speeds in its standard form.

The D-Max retains the all-important 3 ½ tonne towing capacity, and much like most pick-ups seems to handle and perform better with the benefit of a load.

Our previous experience with the D-Max was the “mark two” version and this one has clearly taken huge steps forward in terms of the driving characteristics and just how car-like the cabin feels. It is not quite hitting SUV standards but you’re really not that far away!

Isuzu D-Max improved specification

All D-Max’s offer improved specifications as standard than their rivals, even in their most basic. They are offering:

• Auto headlights
• Air conditioning
• Cruise control
• Bluetooth
• A host of standard safety features including, autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, speed limiter and lane departure warning system

it’s certainly fair to say that on start up our demo provided the most “warning lights” on a dashboard we have ever seen.

Our demo also had a fitted roller shutter and bed rug which can be a nightmare if you’re really working the truck. But perhaps befitting an area of the market Isuzu are targeting with their latest model.

The most striking feature of all was the load area which remained dry even on one of the wettest Sundays we endured! it’s worth noting that neither the canopies nor roller shutter fitments are guaranteed to be waterproof by any of the manufacturers. Having noted that our experience was that our fitment was very satisfactory in that department!

Isuzu D-Max kerb appeal

There is no doubt the latest D-Max has a much improved “kerb appeal” and now offers a very credible third option in this sector for this reason.

Adding in the improved tarmac driving dynamics, off-road prowess, safety, a much wider range of models, (including both 4x2 and 4x4 single cabs and 4x4 extended cab) and the sector-beating 5-year 125000-mile warranty we think the Isuzu D-Max should be firmly in contention and consideration

It certainly changed our view!

Interested in a double cab pick-up

If you’re interested in a double-cab pick-up for your business, farm or just personally then we’re happy to help and share our thoughts on the products available – how they perform on/off road and the most appropriate fitments to suit your specific needs then give us a call on 01473 372020 … email getintouch@tysoncooper.com  or complete our call back form to arrange a call at a time convenient for you – especially if you are already a member of one of our partner schemes – BASC, Fram Farmers, Woldmarsh, RICS, ICAEW or RIBA.