Isuzu D-Max review update

It’s not so long ago that I reviewed the Isuzu D-Max (which you can read here) and, since then there has been just a minor cosmetic facelift which hasn’t fundamentally changed the vehicle apart from a few aesthetics.

The reason for the re-visit? I’ve reviewed some of the latest pickups from other manufacturers in the interim and wanted to see just where today’s D-Max fitted in. It’s a truck I’ve always been a fan of, a view shared by many thousands of loyal customers, particularly those in the agricultural sector who just love its practicality and towing capability.

So, how does it feel now, in 2024? There’s still that unmistakable feeling that the D-Max will take anything that you throw at it. If all the competitor vehicles were lined up and I had the opportunity to choose any to cover a very demanding off-road course, I reckon I’d opt for the Isuzu. It does offer the no-nonsense confidence that it’ll get the job done with little fuss.

The cab interior is looking a little aged now, but, it’s comfortable and in the DL40 as tested the level of spec and safety tech is impressive. Is it on a level with Ranger and Amarok though? No, it isn’t.

I’d suggest that the one single area that now lets the D-Max down is the drivetrain. The 1.9 litre diesel engine is very noisy compared to more recently launched pickups, and the automatic transmission in the test truck is archaic in its operation. There’s none of the seamless, gentle changes that we’ve become accustomed to in modern vehicles, more the slow ‘lurch’ from one ratio to another. It makes the vehicle a little tiring to drive.

What’s good though? Plenty. I achieved an impressive average of 37mpg in the week I had the vehicle, and this, combined with a 5 year warranty should mean low running costs. Second-hand values remain good so, depreciation shouldn’t be a major worry. I think the D-Max still looks good, too.

Overall? The Isuzu is getting a little long in the tooth but given the customer base that it appeals to, I think sales will remain strong until an all new D-Max finally appears.