A closer look at Isuzu D-Max’s key strengths, weaknesses

The Isuzu D-Max, even after its initial global introduction back in 2002, remains a popular pickup truck. Here in the Philippines, the third-generation RG version is a common sight on local roads, with some examples dressed up by enthusiasts to be battle-ready for the boonies. 

From the outset, the current version sold locally has several qualities to like. Its exterior design is appealingly muscular, while its interior offers loads of space and amenities. But does the Isuzu D-Max have any weaknesses that would-be buyers should be aware of? Also, what are its key strengths as a nameplate? Let’s find out here.

Pros

Beefy turbodiesel engine

One notable strength of the Isuzu D-Max, particularly the top-spec LS-E, LS-A Plus, LS-A, and LT 4x4 trims, is its beefy 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX inline-4 turbodiesel engine. 

At maximum, the said four-banger can generate up to 187 horsepower and 450 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. Couple its engine with its tough ladder frame chassis, 4x4 drivetrain, and locking differential, and what you get is a highly capable ride that can practically go anywhere. 

Additionally, the model offers a six-speed manual transmission for most of its trims. The aforementioned, of course, is a boon for buyers who want to row through gears instead of depending on the nameplate’s six-speed automatic. 

For its suspensions, the Isuzu D-Max comes with a double-wishbone for the front and semi-elliptical leaf springs for the rear. Stopping power for the ride is provided by front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. 

While simple, the leaf spring rear ends of the D-Max ensure durability and a payload capacity of up to 1,070 kilograms (double-cab versions). The aforementioned means the Isuzu model’s viability as a no-holds-barred work truck. 

Loads of amenities

Apart from being tough and powerful, the Isuzu D-Max provides its occupants with plenty of creature comforts. 

For starters, the top-spec LS-E variant’s seats are all clad in leather. The ones up front get power adjustability, while the ones in the rear have ample room for up to three adults. 

Keeping everyone inside the Isuzu D-Max cool and comfortable is a dual-zone automatic climate control system with rear vents. 

Handling on-board entertainment for the D-Max, meanwhile, is a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The said screen is linked to an eight-piece speaker system, and charging phones is done easily thanks to several USB ports and a wireless smartphone charging pad. 

For the driver, the Isuzu D-Max provides the following amenities: 

• Seven-inch digital gauge cluster 
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Remote keyless entry
• Push-to-start button
• Drive mode selector

In addition to its interior, the exterior of the Isuzu D-Max, especially the LS-E, comes with a lot of features as well. Specifically, it has rain-sensing wipers, LED lighting fixtures, a bedliner, roof rails, as well as front and rear skidplates with a transmission cover. 

Comprehensive safety kit

Besides its rugged appeal and wealth of creature comforts, another good quality of the Isuzu D-Max is its comprehensive safety kit. 

Available to the model are a total of seven airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, hill-descent control, built-in digital video recorder (dashcam), front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree view camera.

Reinforcing the aforementioned is an array of advanced driver-assist systems, which include: 

• Autonomous emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Forward collision warning

Cons

Stiff ride

While it also applies to its competitors, one glaring disadvantage of the Isuzu D-Max is its stiff ride quality. 

The aforementioned is linked to its leaf spring suspension systems, which were tuned to provide ruggedness during off-road situations and the utmost in payload capacity. Sounds great, but such a type of suspension isn’t known for providing the same levels of ride quality as multi-link suspension systems. On the one hand, the Isuzu D-Max is a stable ride on both highway and off-road use. 

Isuzu D-Max: specifications

Model	Isuzu D-Max LS-E 4x4 AT
Exterior
Dimensions (L x W x H, in mm)	5,277x1,880x1,810
Wheelbase (mm)	3,125
Ground clearance (mm)	240
Wheel size	18-inch
Lighting system	LED
Interior
Material	Leather
Amenities	Rain-sensing wipers Automatic headlamps Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning Power-folding side mirrors 12-volt accessory socket USB ports Wireless smartphone charging pad Remote keyless entry Eight-piece speaker system Seven-inch digital gauge cluster Drive mode selector Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Infotainment system	10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Seating capacity	Five
Powertrain
Engine	3.0-liter inline-4 turbocharged
Fuel type	Diesel
Transmission	Six-speed automatic
Horsepower	187
Torque	450 Nm
Technology
Safety	Seven airbags Anti-lock braking Electronic stability control Traction control Hill-start assist Hill-descent control 360-degree view camera Front and rear parking sensors
ADAS	Autonomous emergency braking Adaptive cruise control Blind-spot monitoring Forward collision warning
Price	P1.995 million

Final thoughts

Overall, the Isuzu D-Max provides good value for the money. With its P978,000-P1.995 million price range across 12 variants, it also has something for a variety of buyers. 

Sure, it may feel stiff to ride in some road conditions, but the Isuzu-made vehicle has loads of strengths to make up for it. To summarize, it boasts a peppy engine, a well-rounded safety kit, and plenty of creature comforts. 

For serious buyers looking into pickup trucks, we highly advise you to take the Isuzu D-Max out for a test drive. Who knows, this might just be the right truck for you.

Also read:

Isuzu mu-X's 5 elegant hues in PH

4 reasons the Isuzu D-Max, mu-X are considerable rainy season rides

Here are the Isuzu D-Max’s 12 variants

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