Isuzu D-Max. Cross-country ability, functionality and comfort
The Isuzu D-Max is a classic mid-size pickup produced by Isuzu Motors (Japan) since 2002. It is available in three versions: 2-door 4-seater ‘1.5-cab’, 4-door 5-seater ‘double-cab’ and 2-door 2-seater ‘single-cab’, and the latter two are sold in Israel. There are both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, all of which are equipped with a diesel engine. In 2021, Israeli buyers can purchase the second generation pickup after the 2019 restyling.
The Japanese D-Max pickup truck successfully combines the best qualities of different vehicles: the cross-country ability of an SUV, the functionality of a small-tonnage truck and the comfort of a passenger car, and is considered as a competitor to the Mitsubishi Triton and Toyota Hilux. Created for comfortable and pleasant trips, reliable and stylish, roomy and modern, it is ready to solve all tasks, starting from cargo transportation to exciting off-road travel. After all, the Isuzu D-Max is a real body-on-frame pickup with excellent cross-country ability, high carrying capacity and a high level of comfort. Quite large overall dimensions provide increased body roominess and ample space in the passenger compartment. The ground clearance of the new D-Max reaches 235 mm, while the maximum approach angle is 30 degrees and the departure angle is 23 degrees. The vehicle can overcome water obstacles if their depth does not exceed 600 mm. All of this testifies to the excellent off-road characteristics of the pickup.
The first generation
It was produced from 2002 to 2012, while its restyling took place in 2008. The first D-Max was created in collaboration with General Motors on the platform shared with the American Chevrolet Colorado midsize pickup and its fellow GMC Canyon. The first generation Isuzu D-Max was first shown in Thailand. That country was selected for the premiere because GM-Isuzu decided to close its small pickup assembly plant in Japan and move the joint venture to Thailand. The vehicle was also sold under the names Chevrolet Colorado, Chevrolet D-Max, Holden Rodeo and Holden Colorado. In 2004, on the pickup served as a basis for the Isuzu MU-7 SUV destined for the Asian markets.
The rear and all-wheel drive vehicles could be equipped with 2.4 liter petrol engines and 3 liter V6 engines, as well as with 2.5 and 3.0 liter turbocharged diesel engines. These engines were combined with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. In 2008, the vehicle underwent a scheduled restyling, aimed at improving the front face, interior and technical characteristics. A total of 3 types of passenger compartments were available: a two-seater single-cab, a 1.5-cab with a backseat at the rear, as well as a double-cab with a pair of rows of seats. The ground clearance was 190-210 mm.
The second generation
It has been produced from 2012 to the present, while its restyling took place in 2019. The second D-Max was almost identical to the Chevrolet Colorado: it had the same platform and chassis, body structure, mechanical components, and even interior design. At the same time, this Japanese pickup can be distinguished by an aggressive angular front panel with raised headlights and a different design of the radiator grille. After a slight facelift in 2017, the second D-Max acquired a new grille, new bumper and headlights, as well as some new interior features. According to the results of the Euro NCAP crash test, the pickup received 4 out of 5 stars for safety.
The third generation or restyling of 2019
In 2019, the D-Max was completely restyled. Some people even call this restyling the third generation of the pickup. Despite the exterior resemblance to the previous generation, the model is completely new and was created in collaboration with Mazda, which produces its Mazda BT-50 pickup. The 2019/2020 D-Max is built on the new Isuzu Dynamic Drive platform, which includes a frame structure and additional transverse reinforcements. The power structure of the reinforcements consists of high and ultra-high strength steel (their share is 46%). There is an independent dual-lever spring suspension at the front and a solid axle suspension at the rear. Compared to the second generation, the version with a double-cab is 30 mm shorter (5,265 mm), 10 mm wider (1,870 mm) and 5 mm higher (1,790 mm). The wheelbase has been increased by 30 mm to 3,125 mm.
Exterior
The exterior of the vehicle deserves particular attention. The pickup looks more energetic and aggressive. A large number of chrome elements, a two-level radiator grille, wide wheel arches, and new headlights make the vehicle unique and recognizable. The manufacturers release the 2020 Isuzu D-Max in a wide range of colors, including numerous bright shades.
The third generation is distinguished by a massive hexagonal grille, more compact optics and two-tier fog lights. The exterior has seriously changed as compared with previous models. The nose of the 2020 Isuzu D-Max boasts a more menacing look, which is achieved in part by the new Vision Bi-LED headlights, which comprise integrated running lights. Such elements as modified massive radiator grille, as well as double sections of auxiliary lighting on the sides of the front bumper significantly improve the exterior. Plus, there is a beautiful and aggressive relief on the hood, which looks like ribs directed towards the corners of the false radiator grille.
The Japanese D-Max pickup truck successfully combines the best qualities of different vehicles: the cross-country ability of an SUV, the functionality of a small-tonnage truck and the comfort of a passenger car
The sides of the pickup depend on a trim level. The double-cab version will have a lot of black features. These include roof rails, large rectangular mirrors with turn signals, door handles, sills and steps, as well as wheel arch linings. But note that the sills and steps cannot be retracted. The windows, decorated and separated by black stripes, and large wheel arches, are striking. The ground clearance height varies from 190 to 220 mm. The 3 generation D-Max pickup is equipped with 15-18 inch wheels, depending on the trim level.
Interior
The equipment of the pickup has become noticeably better. The new model has a good interior decoration, dominated by leather, high-quality fabrics, metals, and plastic. The vehicle has an advanced multimedia system with a wide range of options, as well as very comfortable seats. A convenient multifunctional 3-spoke steering wheel is striking, hiding a nice dashboard, which has acquired two analogue scales and a color board of the on-board computer between them. It should be noted that the basic versions are devoid of many ‘frills’ and look quite simple.
Japanese engineers have equipped the center console with a stylish multimedia system. It has a 7- or 9-inch touchscreen display, neat triangular air vents on the sides, framed by a chrome line and two consoles that have both touch and analog buttons. It supports mobile services from Android and Apple. There is a panel containing sockets for accessories in the center. It is very pleasant to see leather seats. They have good lateral support and electrical adjustments.
The improved body sound insulation makes the interior really quiet, even when driving at high speeds or off-road. The interior has become more spacious and functional. In terms of passenger comfort, the interior of the new D-Max can be called the best in its class. High-quality and pleasant to the touch materials have been used in the decoration. The dashboard is very convenient and informative. All control buttons for the main systems are in their usual places, next to the hands. When driving, it feels like you are not inside a pickup, but inside a premium sedan.
Engines
Despite the fact that the new Isuzu D-Max is now equipped with a 3-leaf spring rear suspension, instead of the previous 5-leaf one, it still has the same carrying capacity of 1 ton. The engine is also new. A 2.5-liter engine has been replaced by a 3-liter turbocharged diesel engine with 177 hp. Most Isuzu light trucks are equipped with this engine, due to its easy maintenance, a large resource and excellent operational characteristics. The engine has a turbocharger, a common rail fuel injection system, and the 16-valve timing. The engine can work together with a 6-speed manual transmission or with a 6-speed hydromechanical automatic transmission by Aisin. The drive is now fully plug-in in all the trim levels.
