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The What Van? Road Test: Isuzu D-Max (2021)
Date: Friday, January 28, 2022
Eager to take full advantage of the departure of so many of its rivals from the pick-up market, Isuzu (UK) has spent the last few months rolling out the latest version of D-Max.
Marketed in both 4x2 and 4x4 guise, it has been restyled and re-equipped, with a heavy emphasis on safety throughout the range. As a consequence it has been awarded a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating; the maximum that can be achieved.
It has also won the What Van? Pick-up of the Year award for 2022.
Even entry-level Business models with their Utility trim boast features such as Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Intelligent Speed Limiter and Traffic Sign Recognition as standard alongside Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
All 4x4 double-cabs benefit from Emergency Lane Keeping, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, while automatic models benefit from Pedal Misapplication Mitigation. It should ensure that catastrophe does not ensue if you accidentally slam your foot down on the accelerator rather than the brake pedal.
Move up to the All-Purpose range’s DL20 and DL40 4x4 models and yet more safety systems and equipment are provided, along with a standard rear diff lock. The Adventure range nestles at the peak of what is a somewhat complicated line-up, with the V-Cross – the subject of our test – featuring what Isuzu describes as Gun Metal exterior styling on its wheels, side steps, radiator grille, mirror casings and door handles.
With both 4x2 and 4x4 variants up for grabs, Utility D-Max pick-ups are sold with single-, extended- and double-cabs. DL20, DL40 and V-Cross are marketed solely as 4x4s and all three are available as double-cabs, with DL20 also listed with an extended cab.
Alterations beneath D-Max’s bodywork include bigger brakes, changes to the suspension and new cab mounts. What has not changed however is D-Max’s engine power output.
A 1.9l diesel at 164hp is installed in everything, and a bit more power would be welcome.
It was with this thought in mind that we started getting to grips with our top-of-the-range V-Cross four-door double-cab automatic. The six-speed transmission has been upgraded to allow up to 25% faster gear changes, says Isuzu.
V-Cross is also sold with a six-speed manual box, but you can switch the automatic to manual mode by pushing the shift lever to the right.
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