We drive the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TDI
The bakkie segment in South Africa is highly competitive. The likes of the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger rule the top spots. Isuzu has been relatively quiet for a few years until recently when they introduced their latest offering. The all-new D-Max brings with it a host of new improvements and we spent time with the 3.0TDI to see what it is all about.
The exterior of the D-Max has been designed to be tough and rugged. The exterior features bold lines and aggressive angles that give the truck a muscular look. The truck also has an aggressive stance, thanks to its wide track and high ground clearance. The D-Max also has a range of exterior features, such as LED headlights, a rear spoiler, and a tailgate that can be opened with one hand.
The interior of the D-Max is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for five adults. The cabin is equipped with soft-touch materials, and the seats are supportive and comfortable. The dashboard is well laid out, and the controls are easy to reach and use. The infotainment system is also user-friendly, with a seven-inch touchscreen and a variety of apps. The D-Max also comes with a range of driver-assistance systems, such as blind spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
The Isuzu D-Max is offered with either the new 1.9-litre turbo diesel motor or the tried and tested 3.0TDI. The latter offers impressive power and is ideal for tackling tough off-road conditions and towing large payloads. The 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine now produces a whopping 140kW and 450Nm of torque.
This powerplant is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or an optional six-speed automatic, and transfers power to all four wheels via a selectable four-wheel-drive system. The Isuzu D-Max 3.0 is built upon a rugged ladder-frame chassis that is designed to withstand tough off-road conditions. It features a long-travel suspension system that allows the bakkie to handle the bumps and ruts of off-road terrain with ease. The suspension system also helps to keep the truck stable while towing heavy loads.
The D-Max 3.0 comes standard with a full-time four-wheel-drive system that can be locked into low-range for extreme off-roading. The truck also comes with a host of off-road tech like hill descent control, a rear locker, and an electronic traction control system. The D-Max 3.0 comes equipped with a number of useful features that make it a great choice for tackling tough off-road terrain. It has a high ground clearance of 230mm and a towing capacity of 3500kg, making it ideal for those that need to tow large caravans or trailers.
The new D-Max is a large improvement on the model that it replaces, which was a bit long in the tooth. The newcomer offers a much improved ride quality and overall build quality. The tech is decent and the vehicle doesn't feel as agricultural as before.
With a range of body configurations, to suit a variety of needs the new Isuzu is a must when looking for a bakkie, sure, it might not be as top-shelf as the new Ford Ranger but it does offer a charm as well as price tag that is attractive.
Overall the Isuzu D-Max is an impressive bakkie that offers a great combination of capability and comfort. It is powerful enough for towing and off-roading, and it is comfortable enough for long drives. The D-Max is also available with a range of trim levels and options, so you can customize it to suit your needs. If you’re looking for a rugged and capable bakkie, the Isuzu D-Max is an excellent choice.
Also worth a look: the Isuzu D Max and the Isuzu D Max.
FAQ
Q: What does the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TDI cost in South Africa?
The Isuzu D-Max 3.0TDI starts from around R679,900 for the manual transmission model, whilst the automatic version will set you back approximately R719,900, making it a competitive option in the premium bakkie segment.
Q: Is the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TDI worth buying?
Absolutely, the D-Max 3.0TDI offers exceptional value with its 140kW power output and 450Nm torque figure, plus it comes with a solid warranty package that rivals the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger at a more attractive price point.
Q: How much can the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TDI tow?
The D-Max 3.0TDI can tow up to 3,500kg when properly equipped, making it perfect for hauling boats, caravans, or trailers, which puts it right up there with the segment leaders.
Q: What fuel consumption does the D-Max 3.0TDI achieve?
The D-Max 3.0TDI returns a claimed fuel consumption of 8.9 litres per 100km on the combined cycle, which is pretty decent for a bakkie with this much grunt under the bonnet.
Q: Does the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TDI come with a warranty?
Yes, Isuzu backs the D-Max 3.0TDI with a comprehensive 5-year/120,000km warranty plus a 5-year/90,000km service plan, giving you proper peace of mind for years to come.
Should You Buy It?
The best premium bakkie under R750,000 in South Africa is definitely the Isuzu D-Max 3.0TDI. At R679,900 for the manual, you're getting 140kW of power, 450Nm of torque, and a 3,500kg towing capacity that matches bakkies costing R100,000 more. The build quality is solid, the interior is surprisingly plush, and that 5-year warranty package is hard to beat. Sure, the Toyota Hilux has better resale value and the Ford Ranger might have flashier tech, but for pure bang for your buck, the D-Max 3.0TDI is a no-brainer. If you need a proper workhorse that can handle the farm during the week and take the family on weekend adventures without breaking the bank, this Isuzu should be at the top of your shopping list.
