D-Max 3.0 LSE delivers what we expect from Isuzu
Isuzu insists that its D-Max was intensively developed, engineered and durability tested in South Africa, for South Africans. Not only that, but this [popular bakkie delivers state of the art technology to enhance its every aspect. And as they say, it’s built just for you.
Everything, from the new bakkie’s suspension to its all-terrain tyres, it’s tough, made to measure load box and tailgate, to dust sealing, was exhaustively tested in local conditions. It is fettled to meet and exceed every South African customer expectation. In the most demanding of local conditions.
You need a huge trailer to beat this bakkie
So, how does it shape up? Well, for starters, our while tester complete with rugged canopy, tow hitch and a few other cool Isuzu accessories split opinion in the office. Some say its ugly. Others dig it. This middle of the range model has chrome grille elements, side steps and a roll hoop. It has proper LED projector headlamps with neat daytime driving running lights, front fog lamps and a high level brake light at the rear.
D-Max 3.0 LSE sports smart standard 18-inch face polished alloys, ours sporting chunky set of 255/60 R18 General Grabbers. They certainly played the part when we ventured adventurously far off the beaten track in this 4x2 bakkie. You can pack a tonne in the bak and this rear-drive D-Max can pull a 3,500 kg braked trailer, which we also did with some ease. You need a hell of a trailer or caravan to get all the way to that rated capacity.
Step into an air conditioned cabin with power windows front and rear, and remote central locking. The grippy cross stitched power multifunction steering wheel falls nicely to hand and is sensibly laid out. There’s also cruise control, while rear park distance control is aided and abetted by a reversing camera.
Solid LSE cabin has useable infotainment
It broadcasts onto the infotainment screen. Being the E version, this one to fills all the space left for it on the display. It’s a good, usable system with Auto, CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports front and rear, and an aux input too.
Another plus is a decent sound system compared to its rivals. The touchscreen is backed by the necessary dash and steering wheel buttons, which also toggle the trip computer nestling between fine and legible analogue dials.
One aspect we were most relieved about in this D-Max, is that you just get in and go. There are no stupid driver aids that are near impossible to switch off. As they do, and totally ruin the top spec mu-X. It’s still well safety specced though. There’s traction and stability control and ABS brakes with EBD and assist. Add seven airbags, Isofix kid seat mounts, and the rest.
Powerful, economical LSE drives well
On the road this nineteen-hundred turbodiesel drives well. It has usable power, despite having ‘just’ 140kW at a relatively low peak. That’s offset by 450 Nm in a reasonable band between. Its quick – D-Max 3.0 is among the quicker diesel 4-pot double cabs we have tested. And It’s economical. D-Max 3.0 will do more than over 950 km on a tank.
The auto box gets on with it and we found it well sorted. None of those unnecessary downshifts and sporadic up changes of yore. That, comfortable seats, and a pleasant, spacious driving environment conspire to deliver a very good all-round package.
Its competitively priced too, sitting between the new Ranger, which still benefits sharp launch pricing, and its rival Hilux. There are a few little cons here and there. Build quality, inside and out is a bit tinny. Some consider it ugly. And perhaps a little too similar looking to the older bakkie.
A great value, good basic bakkie
All in all, however, the Isuzu D-Max 13.0TD DC LSE automatic is a great value for money, good basic bakkie. This Gqeberha bakkie maker clearly is doing something right! – Michele Lupini
Test data: Giordano Lupini
ROAD TESTED: Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD DC LSE automatic
Engine: 140 Kw 450 Nm 3.0 litre turbodiesel
Drive: 6 speed manual 4x2
Load Capacity: 1,100 kg
Braked Trailer: 3,500 kg
TESTED:
0--60 km/h: 4.02 sec
0-100 km/h: 9.37 sec
0-120 km/h: 13.03 sec
0-160 km/h: 25.23 sec
0-400m: 16.1 sec @ 136 km/h
80-120 km/h: 6.78 sec
120-160 km/h: 12.22 sec
CLAIMED:
VMax: 185 km/h
Fuel: 7.9 l/100 km
CO2: 208 g/km
Range: 950 km
Warranty/Service: 5y 120K/5y 90K km
LIST PRICE: R821K
How does it shape up?
Check Auto's Test Records now!
