We familiarize yourself with the upgraded Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck in top-end V-Cross spec…
Should you’re a farmer or tradesperson in want of a rugged, dependable 4×4 workhorse of a pick-up, then the selection today is prone to be between a Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, KGM Musso or Isuzu D-Max.
Isuzu solely make business autos, and market themselves the “Choose-Up Professionals”, so in case you are on the lookout for a competitively-priced pick-up, the place higher to start out?
Initially launched within the UK in 2021, the third technology D-Max was handled to updates in 2023 and 2025, and it’s out there as each a single or double cab, with the epic Arctic mannequin topping the vary.
Beginning at £27,755 (+VAT) for the Single Cab ‘D-Max Utility’, my check car was a generously outfitted Double Cab ‘D-Max V-Cross’ (from £38,255 + VAT).
My week included intensive driving on a wide range of roads, a spot of green-laning, plus a difficult off-road course on the Millbrook Proving Floor in Bedfordshire.
First impressions are good. The D-Max have advanced over time right into a good-looking brute, conforming to the pick-up template, however barely shorter and decrease than its most important rivals.
Regardless of that, the double cab’s load mattress is a good 1,520mm lengthy, 1,530mm large and 500mm deep and there’s area inside for 5 adults. Naturally, it’s additionally able to towing as much as 3.5 tonnes and carrying a payload of greater than a tonne.
Powered by a four-cylinder 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine delivering 162bhp and 266lb ft of torque, my D-Max got here with a six-speed computerized gearbox (a six-speed guide can also be out there).
Isuzu claims 31.4mpg gasoline economic system and 235g/km of CO2 emissions for the D-Max V-Cross auto, which isn’t nice, and naturally, that headline determine will fluctuate in response to how and the place you drive, and the way a lot cargo you carry.
That mentioned, I managed nearer to 35mpg on a long term, and with its 76-litre gasoline tank, a spread of greater than 500 miles may be very doable. And, all in all, you may’t count on car-like economic system from a giant, heavy workhorse.
Normal gear on the D-Max V-Cross features a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, leather-based seats, 18-inch alloys and folding/heated door mirrors, plus a full suite of security and driver help options. In different phrases – extra gear than most mainstream highway vehicles of the identical worth.
When you’ve stepped up into the cabin and settled in, you’ll discover there’s a reasonably excessive driving place, which delivers a commanding view of the highway.
In an age of minimalism, the combination of touchscreen, buttons, switches and dials is refreshing.
The infotainment system is a big enchancment, however nonetheless not innovative, whereas the inside supplies used are extra sturdy than premium – even when there are just a few extra soft-touch surfaces than earlier than.
On the highway, the D-Max is straightforward to drive in an old-school sort of means. The steering is gentle sufficient, if slightly imprecise, whereas the leaf-sprung suspension doesn’t ship probably the most refined journey.
It feels secure although, and cruises properly, whereas the turning circle is impressively tight. General, it’s tremendous on the highway, however some rivals really feel extra polished.
The engine will get the job accomplished, however that diesel clatter is ever-present beneath acceleration. It’s a tad down on energy in comparison with some rivals, whereas the automated gearbox is easy, however hesitates earlier than kicking down.
There’s nonetheless greater than sufficient grunt for off-roading, which is the place the brand new D-Max V-Cross comes into its personal, as a result of it’s extra succesful than ever.
In addition to a rear differential lock, hill begin help and hill descent management, all 4×4 fashions additionally get the all-new Tough Terrain Mode – an extension of the traction management system which helps to scale back wheel spin and allocate energy to the wheels with probably the most grip.
To say I used to be impressed by the D-Max’s off-road agility could be an understatement. It made mincemeat of the assorted challenges on the Millbrook Proving Floor course, which is used for navy car testing.
With very good traction, a wading depth of 800mm and stable underbody safety, it coped with steep inclines, jaw dropping descents, rock crawling, epic leans and water crossings with ease.
The know-how labored a deal with. The one factor that may make it even higher could be a digital view of the terrain obscured by the bonnet, which is nice when climbing a hill with a steep drop the opposite facet.
In the end, the D-Max V-Cross is properly price contemplating for those who’re on the lookout for a rugged, reasonably priced 4×4 for all of the household and also you don’t need an SUV.
Nevertheless, nearly all of gross sales will nonetheless go to tradespeople and farmers. Speaking of which, I took a Toyota Hilux-driving farmer pal for a spin within the D-Max round his property, and he was impressed, so reward certainly.
And for those who’re on the lookout for some peace of thoughts, every new D-Max comes with a 125,000-mile, five-year guarantee, and 5 years of UK and European roadside help.
Verdict: The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross pick-up truck is a troublesome, reliable workhorse that’s severely succesful off-road. What it lacks in sophistication and engine selection, it positive factors in affordability, beneficiant gear ranges and practicality.
Isuzu UK
