Isuzu D-Max – sense of adventure

WHETHER it be slaloming through sand or mastering the mud, Japanese commercial vehicle specialist Isuzu has the hardware to get the job done.

Since the brand’s arrival in 1987 when the Trooper model was first imported, Isuzu has had a progressive impact on the UK pick-up truck scene.

And the company took a huge leap forward in 2012 when the D-Max model was launched, instantly becoming a favourite with farmers and tradesmen alike.

Several variants of the hardcore truck have since given pick-up fans the choice of opting for everything from all-purpose and utility models to adventure versions like the D-Max V-Cross or polar pioneer the Arctic Trucks AT35.

Our tested model, the V-Cross Double Cab automatic, was given a comprehensive update last year with enhancements like a fresh design front grille and new alloy wheels while the Bi-LED headlights and gun metal styling give the big Isuzu a commanding road presence.

As the brand’s signature model, the V-Cross caters for the expanding adventure leisure sector of the off-road market and blessed with the fit and fittings of a premium SUV, is raises the bar with its emphasis on refinement, comfort and safety.

While the practical D-Max Utility line-up starts from £25,995 plus VAT, the plusher V-Cross kicks in from £36,495, though extras like a Truckman Grand Leisure flush-fitting canopy, black steel side bar, a bed rug and the striking Biarritz Blue mica paint add another £2K to the tab.

There’s a shedload of standard kit and tech though, the likes of perforated leather upholstery and electrically adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, dual-zone climate control, a reversing camera and a nine-inch touchscreen with DAB, Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay all included.

Move inside and as a double cab version there’s ample space for five – including for a centre rear passenger – thanks to a 30mm longer wheelbase than the previous generation D-Max.

And the cabin features a plethora of stowage options from door bins incorporating bottle holders, a double glovebox and shallow lidded container on top of the dash to a deep lidded central container, flip-down rear armrest and cup holders behind the gearshift as well as USB ports front and rear.

Side steps and keyless entry make for easy cabin access and the tailgate damper ensures a gentle opening action for managing contents in the load bed.

Deciding on an engine is not a problem because there is no choice, it’s a 1.9-litre four-cylinder diesel that sounds a bit agricultural on start-up but is very smooth when up to speed and has plenty of punch too.

There’s a useful 164PS on tap and you can top 30 miles per gallon on a good day, though our own average over 250 miles of mixed urban, rural and major road driving was closer to 28mpg.

The D-Max has several strongpoints that put it up there with the most desirable, if not THE most desirable, pick-ups in the business, not least its carrying capacity and ability to tow 3.5-tonnes.

For instance it possesses features like a shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive system with 2H, 4H and 4L modes, which allow drivers to seamlessly adapt to various conditions, and its rear differential lock sorts out anything slippery.

A wading depth of 800mm is an impressive limit and both trailer sway and hill descent control systems come as standard kit.

Safety features such as forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot alert, rear cross traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, cruise control and eight airbags on double cab models are also included and the D-Max has a maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

All in all the Isuzu line-up has to be a serious consideration for anyone wanting a pick-up truck – it blends luxury, technology and the capability to shift the sharp end of a scrapyard. Isuzu provide a five-year/125,000-mile warranty for good measure.