By Khulekani Dumisa

Due to Covid-19 related factors and fine-tuning for South African conditions, Isuzu South Africa were forced to push back the local introduction of their all-new D-Max pick-up which made its debut in other markets a few years ago. Last week, Isuzu SA had a quite big launch which was attended by a few prominent figures like President Cyril Ramaphosa who welcomed the locally built bakkie which bears a bold new look, a host of smart technologies, enhanced safety systems, two diesel powertrains and an extensive model range.

Exterior design

Outside, the new D-Max has a bold and confident look accentuated by its angular Bi-LED projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights on the high-series models and an aggressive-looking grille, which gives the newcomer a distinctive on-road presence. The new D-Max is 10 mm lower than the previous model and the bonnet and load area have been heightened by 15 mm, and 30 mm respectively, while the wheelbase has been extended by 30 mm for greater optimisation of the cabin structure. The new load-box design has released additional loading space and capacity, with up to 15 mm added to the bed floor-length, and an extra 30 mm in depth for the box sides. At 1 530 mm wide, the tailgate is said to offer easy loading of wide objects for added convenience and versatility.

Interior design and technology

Inside, high series models of the new D-Max feature a smart and sophisticated cabin with a upper-class quality feel thanks to a 7-inch or 9-inch (versions depending on model) touchscreen with sharp graphics and Isuzu’s intuitive Wide Extended Graphic Array (WXGA) display infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, WiFi connectivity, 6 or 8 speakers, a variety of layered and textured surfaces with soft-touch materials.

Safety

As standard, all new Isuzu D-Max models come with safety credentials such as Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS). Also added to the mix are Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Trailer Sway Control. Depending on the specification level, the new D-Max is equipped with up to 8 airbags.

The range-topping V-Cross incorporates Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assist System (IDAS) which has a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) and Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Parking Aid (front and rear) and Multi Collision Brake (MCB). On LSE and V-CROSS models, a Passive Entry & Start System (PESS) is standard.

Powerplants

The new Isuzu D-Max range is available with a choice of two diesel engines: a 1.9-litre Ddi which takes over from the 2.5-litre engine (which is incidentally still available in GEN6 D-Max) and an upgraded 3.0-litre Ddi engine. The former develops 110 kW at 3 600 r/min, with peak torque of 350 Nm available between 1 800 to 2 600 r/min while the latter delivers 140 kW of peak power at 3 600 r/min, with its maximum torque figure of 450 Nm available from 1 600 to 2 600 r/min. There’s a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions.

Driving impressions

At launch, we only managed to sample the 1.9-litre diesel engine. The key takeaway is that new is definitely better. The engine is quieter and works without its roar intruding in the cabin. The cabin itself appears to be much quieter as well thanks to better insulation. The new seats are comfortable and the car appears a tad softer but not weak at all. The engine feels eager and its pairing with a 6-speed manual (auto is also available) seems like the right move, especially when cruising on the highway. The new infotainment and overall dashboard are a major step-up as the previous-gen was starting to show its age in this arena. We cannot wait to spend more time with the new D-Max.

Warranty and pricing

As standard, every new Isuzu D-Max embodies Isuzu’s unwavering commitment to aftersales service and customer satisfaction. All new Isuzu D-Max models are sold as standard with a comprehensive five-year/120,000 km warranty and roadside assistance, as well as a five-year unlimited distance anti-corrosion warranty. In addition, a five-year/90,000 km service plan is included in the purchase price, with service intervals scheduled every 15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.

Pricing is as follows:

Single cabs – R401,700 to R528,800

Extended cabs – R433,600 to R670,300

Double-cabs – R498,900 to R814,700.