The D-Max ready to take on the bakkie club
This - the seventh-generation Isuzu is upping the stakes for Isuzu. It presents improved styling, luxury and safety features and with 11 models in the range, it is sure to upset the apple cart just a tad.
“Isuzu’s LCV offerings have always been key players in the local market, delivering exceptional reliability and durability for our customers, whether used in hard-working commercial applications, or spearheading the popular double cab segment. We are confident that the new Isuzu D-Max will continue in this proud legacy and raise the bar even higher for the brand,” said Dominic Rimmer, the senior vice president, technical operations at Isuzu Motors SA.
The extensive, highly capable South African model range comprises five single cabs, six extended cabs, and a total of 11 double- cab derivatives for South African customers. The rest of Africa’s model range includes four single cabs and nine double-cab derivatives for right-hand drive and left-hand drive markets.
Design and styling
Its rugged yet modern, bolder, sportier and refined looks are emphasised.
Despite its more athletic appearance, the new Isuzu Max is bigger and more spacious in all key areas.
The double-cabs offer a longer rear door, which improves access for rear-seat occupants. Similarly, the new load box design has released additional loading space and capacity, with up to 15 millimetres added to the bed floor length and an extra 30 millimetres in depth for the box sides. At 1 530 millimetres wide, the tailgate offers easy loading of wide objects for added convenience and versatility.
Luxurious interior
The high series models offer a smart and sophisticated cabin with an upper-class quality feel more akin to that of a passenger car.
The instrument binnacle features analogue dials for the rev counter and speedometer, along with a large 4.2-inch LCD multi-information display that provides high resolution for easy readability and access to a wide range of functions.
A fully integrated wide extended graphic array display infotainment system features prominently in the centre stack, in seven-inch or nine-inch versions depending on model. The system is touchscreen activated and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to seamlessly mirror your connected smartphone.
Supreme comfort is assured thanks to the dual-zone climate control on the LSE and V-Cross models – with rear vents on the double cabs contributing for greater comfort, or manual air conditioning on the lower derivatives.
Technology and safety
All new Isuzu U D-Max models come standard with antilock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and brake assist. Also added to the mix are electronic stability control (ESC) with traction control, hill start assist, hill descent control and trailer sway control.
The range-topping V-Cross raises the benchmark even further, as it boasts an intelligent driver assist system, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning system, lane departure prevention and lane keep assist system, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, parking aid (front and rear) and multi-collision brake that will automatically apply the brakes when the airbags are deployed.
Power and performance
The D-Max range is available with a choice of two diesel engines that build on Isuzu’s long-standing reputation for durability, reliability and efficiency.
Isuzu’s 1.9-litre Ddi powerplant is new and offers 110kW and 350Nm. The upgraded 3.0 Ddi delivers 140kW and 450Nm.
The range at a glance
The Isuzu D-Max range reflects the modern requirements of the LCV market. There are five single cab-derivatives, all featuring the 1.9 Ddi engine, and available in standard and L specification levels. Two of these are available with the six-speed automatic transmission and there are two 4×4 models. There is also a chassis cab derivative for commercial customers aiming to outfit the vehicle according to their specific business requirements.
The extended cab is available in six derivatives in standard and LS spec, matched to the 1.9 Ddi engine. The LSE models are paired with the 3.0 Ddi engine and automatic transmission, in 4×2 or 4×4.
With 11 models in the line-up, the double-cab offering is extensive. Covering all specification grades, five of these make use of the 1.9-litre engine in L and LS models, and a choice of manual or auto, and two- or four-wheel drive. Customers opting for the 3.0 Ddi engine can select LS, LSE or V-Cross specifications. A single manual derivative is available in the LS model, with the rest equipped with the six-speed automatic and either 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains.
Isuzu Complete Care comes standard with every new Isuzu D-Max and a comprehensive five-year/120 000km warranty and roadside assistance, as well as a five-year unlimited distance anticorrosion warranty. In addition, a five-year/90 000km service plan is included in the purchase price, with service intervals scheduled every 15 000km or annually, whichever comes first.
Pricing starts at R401 700.
Source: QuickPic
