If there’s one thing we love at here at Planetauto, it’s a good pick-up truck. And when we say good, we mean a pick-up that can haul, climb, wade, and tackle the kind of terrain that most vehicles wouldn’t dare touch. So, when Isuzu invited us to the launch of their new D-Max, we were already really excited. But throw in some serious off-roading, mud-slinging fun, and it was game on...
The New Isuzu D-Max isn’t just a truck—it’s a lifestyle. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just look tough but delivers on every promise with grit, power, and tech. Whether you’re a farmer hauling bales, an adventurer with a quad to tow, or just someone who loves the thrill of a muddy trail (ahem, that’s us), this pick-up is a beast that works hard, and plays hard..sounds like a perfect pick-up for John McClane now, doesn’t it? And don't get me started on LAPD officer John Nolan, MasterChief Jason Hayes, and rancher John Dutton...they certainly know (and love) their pickups, and would no doubt love this one!
So what’s new? We’ll start with the looks because, frankly, the new D-Max is a head-turner. Isuzu has given this truck a serious upgrade. This isn’t just a truck you use; it’s a truck you show off. The redesigned grille goes all in, oozing rugged capability, while the sleek headlights and muscular stance make it look like it’s ready to charge through a wall (or at least a few muddy fields). Are you okay, Are you sure? Because you just went through a wall! Now, who said that, and in what film? Answers on a postcard! Okay, okay, back to the D-Max…
Each trim level—Utility, DL20, DL40, and the top-spec V-Cross—has its own distinct personality. The Utility trim is the workhorse of the lineup, with tough black plastics that say, "I’m here to get the job done." But if you’re after style points, the V-Cross delivers with dark grey metallic finishes, two-tone alloy wheels, and a tailgate decal that gives it a premium edge. So the question now is: Can’t we have both? Sorry, sorry, it’s all film quotes with me today!
Underneath its tough exterior, the D-Max packs a punch with its 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine. Okay, it’s not the biggest engine out there, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in performance. That’s the thing – the 161 BHP and 360Nm of torque gives it the muscle to tow up to 3.5 tonnes or carry over 1 tonne of payload. That means caravans, horseboxes, jet skis—you name it, the D-Max can handle it.
And when the going gets tough – The tough get going - think slippery hills or rocky trails - the D-Max steps up with a rear differential lock and the All New Rough Terrain Mode that Ben tests thoroughly! (Grr-Argh I’ve got that song in my head now!) These features give it the kind of off-road capability that had us grinning from ear to ear during the launch event. Whether we were climbing steep inclines or powering through boggy mud, the D-Max felt like it could handle anything. And trust us, boggy wasn’t the word – we’d entered quagmire territory. AND, this was all done on road tyres...yes - I'm going to let that sink in for a minute...
For us, a pick-up isn’t just about what’s under the bonnet — it’s about what it can do when you’re out there living life. The new D-Max feels like it’s been designed with adventurers in mind. Take the Shift-on-the-Fly 4WD system, for example. With a quick turn of the dial, you've got easily selectable 2H, 4H, and 4L - with even 4H on the Fly over 50mph! (See what I did there?) adapting the truck to whatever terrain lies ahead. And the underbody protection? It’s tough enough to shrug off any rocks or debris you throw its way, which is something that really gives me peace of mind when we go green laning.
But here’s where things get really exciting, as Isuzu has added Rough Terrain Mode, which is essentially a helping hand for those trickier off-road moments. It reduces wheel spin and sends power to the wheels with the most grip, meaning you don’t have to break a sweat (even if the terrain does).
Inside, you will be surprised with just how refined it is. This isn’t your average utilitarian work horse — Isuzu has clearly put effort into making the cabin a place where you’d actually want to spend time. The dashboard design is clean and modern, with soft-touch materials and a layered layout that feels both functional and premium.
From the Utility trim’s durable vinyl flooring to the V-Cross’s plush leather upholstery, there’s a version of the D-Max to suit every lifestyle. And don’t get us started on the tech—because Isuzu has seriously upped their game. Seriously.
The Multi-Function Touchscreen starts with 8” in the Utility model and goes full on wireless at 9” in the V-Cross. It’s so easy to use, offering seamless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you’re on a long haul road trip or just want to blast some banging tunes while you’re conquering a trail, the V-Cross’s 8-speaker sound system delivers the goods.
Passengers in the back haven’t been forgotten either. Thanks to its decent wheelbase, there’s ample legroom, comfy seats, and even rear ventilation panels on higher trims. It’s clear that Isuzu has thought about everyone in the cab—not just the driver.
Safety has been ramped up too, as the new D-Max is equipped with an ADAS suite, meaning - Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Keep Assist, and even Rear Cross Traffic Brake, and the list goes on. Isuzu has made so many upgrades that the D-Max has now garnered a 5 star Euro NCAP rating.
So no matter what your needs are – work, lifestyle – there’s a D-Max to suit your needs:
Utility: The no-frills workhorse with everything you need and nothing you don’t. You can even get a single cab. Hurrah!
DL20: Adds a bit of refinement with heated seats and alloy wheels.
DL40: Steps up the luxury with leather upholstery, Bi-LED headlights, and parking sensors.
V-Cross: The ultimate adventure machine with premium finishes, a wireless infotainment system, and dark grey accents.
Whether you’re tearing through muddy trails, hauling gear for a camping trip, or navigating city streets, this pick-up feels right at home, and the launch event left us more convinced than ever that the D-Max is the real deal.
If you’re in the market for a pick-up that’s as practical as it is exciting, the new Isuzu D-Max deserves a spot at the top of your list, and with prices that start at £27,495 for the Utility trim, with the top-spec V-Cross coming in at £39,995 on the road means you get a heck of lot of pick-up truck for the money (both prices exclude VAT)
Thank you all, and enjoy!
Annabelle 😊