D-MAX scores six airbags and more power

Hot on the heels of Holden's all-new Colorado, the new-generation Isuzu D-MAX boasts a bigger, bolder new design, more features including six airbags and Bluetooth connectivity and a more powerful 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine.

In line with the improved specification list is an increase in pricing across the D-MAX range. When the Thai-built range goes on sale on July 2, 22 configurations will be offered across single-cab, space-cab and crew cab body styles, five trim levels, 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains and low and high-ride chassis variants.

Pricing kicks off $2100 higher than previously at $27,200 (not including on-road and dealer costs) for the entry-level 4x2 single cab chassis SX manual. At the top of the D-MAX range sits the $51,700 4x4 crew cab LS-Terrain auto.

Though it shares its chassis with the new Holden, the new D-MAX uses different mechanicals. Isuzu will continue with the solitary engine option Down Under -- a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder common rail turbodiesel which is now rated at 130kW at 3600rpm and 380Nm at 1800rpm (up from the previous 120kW/360Nm, or 333Nm with auto).

The Euro4-compliant engine is also more fuel-efficient than its predecessor with official combined fuel consumption of 8.0-8.3L/100km (depending on configuration).

There’s a new five speed manual transmission or buyers can opt for a new five-speed automatic (a $2200 option) with hill descent and hill ascent modes. The latter replaces the old four-speed unit.

Four-wheel drive versions also benefit from a new Terrain Command system which allows on-the-fly, 2WD to 4WD selection at speeds up to 100km/h.

Jointly developed by Isuzu and General-Motors, the D-MAX shares a longer and significantly stiffer chassis with the new Holden Colorado, but the two utes have more differentiation than before.

Externally, a chrome-laden fascia, sleek, more aerodynamic lines and LED brake lights contribute to D-MAX’s "new bulkier and aggressive on-road stance", as does the wider track and increase in wheelbase (to 3095mm) and overall length (5295mm on LS-U crew cab).

Inside, the larger dimensions translate to increased cabin space across all body styles while new seating with ‘wrap around’ bolsters deliver more comfort to occupants, says Isuzu.

With the upgraded safety package extending to six airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control and traction control (and a reversing camera on the top-spec LS-T), Isuzu will be hoping the new D-MAX achieves the maximum five ANCAP stars when it’s tested. The outgoing model scored just three ANCAP stars.

Isuzu also claims improvements to ride and handling, thanks partially to new Flex-Ride suspension geometry for the independent coil spring, double wishbone front/leaf-spring, live axle rear set-up.

Other comfort features include air-conditioning and audio system with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, while a roof-mounted surround sound system and multimedia touchscreen display with sat nav will be available on some variants.

A competitive 3.0 tonne braked towing capacity (on 4x4 versions) and one tonne payload across the range completes the classy workhorse package.

The new D-MAX is the latest in a raft of new or updated one-tonne ute models to arrive on our shores. In its home Thai market D-MAX boasts around 40 per cent market but in Australia the Isuzu ute currently holds less than five per cent.

Visit motoring.com.au again soon for our full launch review of the new Isuzu D-MAX.

2012 Isuzu D-MAX pricing (MRLP):
4x2 Single Cab SX cab chassis 3.0 manual $27,200
4x2 Crew Cab SX pickup 3.0 manual $33,200
4x2 Crew Cab SX pickup 3.0 auto $36,300
4x2 Crew Cab LS pickup 3.0 manual $38,800
4x2 Crew Cab LS pickup 3.0 auto $41,000
4x4 Single Cab EX cab chassis 3.0 manual $33,400
4x4 Single Cab SX cab chassis 3.0 manual $36,400
4x4 Single Cab SX cab chassis 3.0 auto $38,600
4x4 Space Cab SX cab chassis 3.0 manual $39,100
4x4 Space Cab SX cab chassis 3.0 auto $41,300
4x4 Crew Cab SX cab chassis 3.0 manual $41,300
4x4 Crew Cab SX cab chassis 3.0 auto $43,500
4x4 Crew Cab SX pickup 3.0 manual $42,000
4x4 Crew Cab SX pickup 3.0 auto $44,200
4x4 Crew Cab LS-M pickup 3.0 manual $44,000
4x4 Crew Cab LS-M pickup 3.0 auto $46,200
4x4 Space Cab LS-U cab pickup 3.0 manual $43,700
4x4 Space Cab LS-U pickup 3.0 auto $45,900
4x4 Crew Cab LS-U pickup 3.0 manual $45,500
4x4 Crew Cab LS-U pickup 3.0 auto $47,700
4x4 Crew Cab LS-T pickup 3.0 manual $49,500
4x4 Crew Cab LS-T pickup 3.0 auto $51,700

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