Automologist ATHERTON tests the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain to help you decide whether to skip it or buy it…
Isuzu’s third generation D-Max has taken the brand to new heights. Not only is it evident in the sales numbers in Malaysia but also in other markets like Thailand, Australia and New Zealand. We know Isuzu for their durability and robust engines, and the aesthetics was…okay. That was then. It’s different now.
Isuzu has listened to the needs of its consumers and produced a game-changing model with a fresh and attractive design, enhanced ergonomics and improved engineering. Our test unit was a 2021 model in Valencia Blue. Very nice. Get this, the D-Max was tested in same wind tunnel as Japan’s bullet train, the Shinkansen, to improve fuel consumption, reduce wind noise and achieve better high-speed stability.
You will notice the hood doesn’t have the windscreen washer nozzle, which has been integrated into the wipers to improve air flow. It has an aggressive looking front with four ‘fangs’ on the radiator grille and automatic Bi-LED Projector headlamps and LED DRLs as well as LED rear combi lamps. The look is a giant leap from yesteryear’s.
You get body-coloured bumpers which is a nice touch as well as 18” rims that integrate well with its overall body shape. At the back, the tailgate assist is a vital component as most buyers nowadays use their trucks as a dual-purpose carrier – work and pleasure. The assist controls the drop rate of the tailgate whereas in trucks before, it would just slam down. This is a really good safety measure.
The ride is decent bearing in mind that this is a 4×4. You do feel the bumps and jolts but they have been minimised. However, the supple leather seats (8-way power adjust with lumbar support) make up for it and the drive is pleasant. The wheelbase has been increased by 30mm so you get more cabin space.
With its 3.0L Blue Power Engine that produces 195 PS and 450Nm of torque at your disposal, this truck is no slouch on the roads and has enough grunt to get you out of adverse terrain.
In terms of safety, the X-Terrain has a full suite with Front Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go Lane Departure Warning and seven airbags—yes, seven. In this day and age, I’m baffled that some manufacturers offer a paltry two or four airbags, but not Isuzu. The Autonomous Emergency Braking really comes in handy especially when you have some crazed drivers on the road or if you are slow to react.
Inside the cabin, Isuzu has done a wonderful job in keeping this flagship variant as premium as possible with dark brown, soft touch leather on the dashboard and door cards that matches the seats. Your steering is leather-wrapped too with Audio, Bluetooth Hands-Free and Voice Recognition switches. Another great thing is that the steering has tilt and telescopic ability that enables you to set your preferred driving position.
Storage space is abundant: two glove box compartments, two cupholders in the centre console and another space in front of the gear lever where you can keep your phone, and a space in the centre armrest. If you a 1.5-litre bottle, all 4 doors can accommodate it.
All the info needed for your drive is right in front with what Isuzu calls the e-Lumax Colour Display Multi Information Display. The gearknob is leather-wrapped too with indicator illumination. The massive 9-inch touch screen infotainment system has Apple Car Play and Android Auto connectivity. However, you don’t get a 360 camera but only a reverse camera. The air-conditioning was cool throughout the drive and you also get automatic dual zone climate control. And another thing that I like is that there are rear air-con vents and a USB port. It definitely makes the ride that much nicer for rear occupants especially in our weather. A “teh tarik” hook can be found at the back of the front passenger seat.
Yup, Isuzu ensured that you get the very best in a pickup. A full tank of diesel would easily get you close to the 800 kilometre mark and that is not just feathering the throttle, ya. With regards to servicing, it costs much less overall compared to other brands. For the price of RM142,438.00 on the road without insurance and if you’re looking for premium life-styled 4×4, you won’t go wrong with the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain.
