Isuzu D-Max double-cab pickup. 2nd generation, 2019 restyling
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 2019/2020 double-cab 4-door 5-seater pickup is 5,265 mm long, 1,870 mm wide, 1,790 mm high, and has a wheelbase of 3,125 mm.
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.
Distinctive characteristics
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 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 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 2019/2020 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 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 interior is finished with 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. The center console comprises 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 Android and Apple. There is a panel containing sockets for accessories in the center. It is very pleasant to see leather seats with 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. Both rear- and all-wheel drive models are supplied to Israel. They have a common engine: a 1.9-liter turbocharged diesel engine with 163 hp, coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission or with a 6-speed hydromechanical automatic transmission by Aisin.
Equipment
The advanced LS and LSE Premium trim levels of the pickup include adaptive cruise control, a rear camera, a driving mode selection system, and an almost complete set of electronic assistants: ABS, ESP and ASR traction control, hill start assist and hill descent control, brake assist and collision avoidance systems, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring systems, even a driver fatigue sensor.
The owner of the upgraded Isuzu D-Max will be pleased with heated front seats and side mirrors, 1-zone climate control, keyless access, button start, multifunction steering wheel, and even a full-size spare wheel.
