Isuzu D-Max

The cabin of the Isuzu D-Max is a balance between durability and sophistication. While the pickup truck retains its rugged appeal, the dashboard and cabin materials have been significantly upgraded. Higher trims get soft-touch materials, leather accents, and metallic or piano-black finish. The dashboard itself has a clean layout. It’s driver-focused, with ergonomically placed controls. The seats are well-bolstered and designed for long-distance comfort, particularly in higher trims that offer faux-leather upholstery. Lower trims still get a lot of hard plastics and durable fabric seats that are practical for heavy-duty use. The driver’s seat is adjustable (electric on higher variants), allowing for a comfortable driving position. While the cabin is well-built, plastics are still dominant in some areas, especially in lower variants.

Higher trims come with dual-zone climate control. Air-conditioning vents are available for the rear passengers, improving comfort during summer.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Well-built cabin

Cons: Hard plastics on lower trims

Features and Technology

The dashboard of the Isuzu D-Max’s entry-level model is dominated by 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment unit. Higher trims get a 10.0-inch unit. The interface is user-friendly, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. For audio, higher trims offer get an eight-speaker sound system. Lower models have a more basic audio setup but still provide good clarity for everyday use. Other features include a digital multi-information display (MID) in the instrument cluster, keyless entry and push-start ignition (higher trims), and steering wheel controls for audio, calls, and cruise control.

Pros and cons

Pros: Responsive touchscreen

Cons: Basic infotainment in entry-level model

Boot Space and Storage

The Isuzu D-Max’s cargo bed length varies depending on the model and ranges from 1,495mm to 2,305mm. It’s spacious enough for hauling construction materials, tools, or recreational gear. The bed is made from high-strength steel, ensuring durability even when carrying heavy loads. Depending on the model, the payload capacity ranges from 970kg to 1,120kg, making the Isuzu D-Max one of the most capable pickup trucks in the Philippines.

Inside the cabin, the Isuzu D-Max provides ample storage compartments. The central console includes a deep storage box. There are also cupholders, door pockets, and a glove compartment for easy access to essentials. Under-seat storage is available in the third-generation D-Max The rear seat can also be folded up to create additional interior cargo space. Additionally, the dashboard features small storage slots and compartments, providing more options to keep smaller items like mobile phones, wallets, and keys.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Spacious cargo bed

Cons: Rear storage space is somewhat limited in the twin-cab model.

The entry-level model of the Isuzu D-Max measures 5,020mm in length, 1,810mm in width, and 1,700mm in height. The car has a wheelbase of 3,125mm. The front of the D-Max sports a larger, more imposing grille, giving it a commanding presence. The grille comes in either chrome or black, depending upon the variant. The redesigned headlights get sharp, angular daytime running lights (DRLs) that enhance visibility while lending the truck a more aggressive stance. Lower-end variants come with halogen headlights. Top-level models get all-around LED lighting.

From the side, the Isuzu D-Max retains its muscular, high-riding stance. Well-defined character lines run along its body, emphasizing its ruggedness. Top-end models run on 18-inch alloy wheels, while lower trims have 17-inch wheels. The flared wheel arches and sculpted side panels lend the D-Max a tough, off-road-ready look. The side-mirrors are power-adjustable and foldable, with higher trims getting integrated turn signals.

The redesigned taillights provide better visibility while adding a modern touch. The tailgate is more aerodynamic and now comes with an easy-lift assist function in higher trims, making it more convenient to operate. A sturdy rear bumper and a well-integrated step ensure easy access to the truck’s cargo bed.

The Isuzu D-Max’s cargo bed remains one of the most durable in its class. It features a reinforced bed liner to prevent scratches and damage from heavy loads. Some variants also get tie-down hooks for securing cargo. The higher models get a sports bar and roll bars for added aesthetics and functionality.

Pros and cons

Pro: Aggressive and modern design

Cons: Large dimensions can be challenging in cities

The 1.9L engine is designed for maximum fuel efficiency. It returns a mileage of around 12 kmpl. The 3.0L engine provides more power but consumes more fuel, particularly in city traffic and off-road conditions. Its fuel efficiency is around 10 kmpl.

Pros and cons

Pros: Ideal for long distance driving

Cons: No hybrid option

Complementing the built-to-last and go-anywhere abilities of the Isuzu D-Max is its ride quality. All thanks to the stiff setup of front independent double wishbone with coil spring with stabilizer and rear semi-elliptical soft ride leaf springs, make the ride quality over broken patches and rough sections a piece of cake. However, the ride quality is not plush for city rides and may feel bouncy at times. The braking setup is decent as well to bring this mammoth of the vehicle to halt, however, Isuzu could have equipped the D-Max with rear disc brakes, given the size of the vehicle.

The Isuzu D-Max is mounted on a double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs and a leaf spring rear suspension. This setup prioritizes durability and load-carrying capacity, making it ideal for hauling cargo or handling rough terrain. But like most similar pickup trucks, the ride sometimes feel stiff, particularly when the bed is empty.

On paved roads, the Isuzu D-Max is noticeably more comfortable compared to older models, courtesy the suspension refinements in the latest generation. The pickup truck absorbs minor road imperfections well, but deeper potholes and uneven surfaces can still be felt inside the cabin. When carrying a load, the rear suspension settles, improving ride stability.

The Isuzu D-Max’s steering wheel offers a lighter, more responsive feel than older hydraulic systems. It makes low-speed maneuvers and parking easier, particularly on congested city roads. The steering firms up at higher speed, providing better stability on highways. But because of its size the Isuzu D-Max requires more effort to negotiate tight corners. The D-Max is built for tough conditions, and its 4x4 models excel off-road. The generous ground clearance helps on rough terrain.

Pro: Responsive steering

Con: Suspension gets hard sometimes

The entry-level model of the Isuzu D-Max is equipped with a turbocharged, four-cylinder, 1.9-litre Blue Power diesel engine that produces 148PS/350Nm. The motor is paired with a six-speed manual transmission (MT). The other option is a 3.0-litre diesel powertrain with a choice of a six-speed MT or automatic. The acceleration is smooth but not overly aggressive, focusing more on torque delivery and efficiency rather than speed. The 3.0L unit has better hauling power. Turbo lag is minimal, and power delivery is linear, ensuring smooth overtaking and highway cruising. For city driving, the 1.9L engine is sufficient, offering a good mix of fuel economy and responsiveness. But though improved, engine is still audible, especially during hard acceleration

Pros and cons

Pro: Potent powertrain options

Con: Engine noise

The Isuzu D-Max comes with a set of advanced driver-assist features. The rear cross-traffic alert system detects approaching vehicles from the side and alerts the driver. It helps prevent collisions when backing out of parking spaces or driveways. The adaptive cruise control uses radar sensors to detect and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. While parking sensors are common in all models, the higher trims get a 360-degree camera system that eliminates all blind spots. The pickup truck comes with up to seven airbags. The D-Max is reinforced Isuzu’s i-GRIP (Isuzu Gravity Response Intelligent Platform) technology that improves crash resistance and enhances passenger safety. The car gets antilock braking.

Pros and cons

Pros: Great structural safety

Con: Some rivals have better equipment

Competitor Comparison

The Isuzu D-Max has several competitors in the Philippines' market, and the Toyota Hilux is one of them. 

Both mid-sized pickup trucks are known for their durability and performance. The D-Max excels in fuel efficiency and reliability, featuring a 1.9L or 3.0L turbo-diesel engine with good towing capacity. It offers a comfortable ride with modern tech features. The Hilux, with its 2.4L or 2.8L turbo-diesel engine, delivers more power and off-road capability. Toyota’s strong resale value and after-sales support give it an edge. While the D-Max is known for efficiency and ruggedness, the Hilux stands out with its versatility, making it a great choice for work and adventure. The Hilux has a lower starting price.

Conclusion and Final Verdict

The Isuzu D-Max stands out as a tough, reliable, and capable pickup truck that excels in durability and performance. Whether for work or adventure, it delivers a powerful engine, excellent towing capacity, and a rugged build designed to handle rough terrains with ease. Its fuel efficiency, safety features, and improved comfort make it a practical choice for both commercial and personal use. For those seeking a dependable and hardworking truck, the Isuzu D-Max remains one of the best options in its class.