One of the most impressive features about the current-generation Isuzu D-MAX is not even a feature. Isuzu sells only two vehicles we would call cars in Mzansi. Apart from those, which are the D-MAX and mu-X, the company sells trucks. But in spite of this extremely limited range, Isuzu constantly features in the top 10 best-selling manufacturers in the country. In fact, the D-MAX – and this is the impressive bit – is Mzansi’s 3rd-best selling bakkie of all.
I once asked the company CEO Billy Tom how they manage to do this, especially in an ever-expanding sea of new products and tough competition. Tom said their customers are very loyal, and their dealerships know what they are doing. Not hard to believe, given the results.
By now we have become quite familiar with the D-MAX, having first driven it at its launch in Gqeberha back in April 2022. That was quite a huge event for Isuzu, if not their biggest to date. Why? Because even President Cyril Ramaphosa was in attendance. Not only was it a “mere” vehicle launch, but it was actually a change of shift for Isuzu in more ways than one.
A brand new product was being launched, yes. But it was going to be produced at the company’s production Plant just outside of Gqeberha, thus replacing the old model. Important that, because it meant jobs that could have been lost had the car been a fully import, were kept. It was also a time when the local Isuzu outfit was transforming itself from within, in order to reflect much more clearly the demographics of Mzansi. They succeeded tremendously in this aspect. Isuzu Motors South Africa is now the most transformed automotive manufacturer in the country.
The D-MAX LSE 4×4 – priced at R887 000 in standard form – that is the subject of this article is therefore the product of quite a lot of thought and care. We had the white model with LED headlights, daytime running lights and 18-inch all-terrain tyres. By the way, the current D-MAX has been affectionately dubbed “unogwaja” or rabbit by the adoring public, thanks to the front end that resembles a rabbit.
Our unit came with two double blade, faux chrome pieces on the grille, with the Isuzu emblem perched atop. Those nogwaja LED headlights are prominent, while the colour-coded bumper gives the car a premium look. The side profile features faux chrome door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels in dual colour. Wrapped around them are all-terrain General grabbers measuring 265/60 R 18. They are extremely capable off the road, and comfortable on it. Black sidesteps are a permanent and useful feature, while a sports bar brushed in black with Isuzu writing on the sides give the car a sportier look. The D-MAX was also fitted with a manual tonneau cover and a tow bar, not just for show but for actual practical use. Isuzu listed this D-MAX LSE 4×4 as having a braked towing capacity of 3 500kg.
Under the bonnet lies Isuzu’s trusted and solid 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine. In this application it produces 140kW of power, as well as 450Nm of pulling torque. We found the torque more than adequate for daily use, while loads are easily taken care of to the tune of around one tonne. Mated to this motor is a 6-speed automatic transmission that connects to all four wheels. After all, this is a 4×4 off-road vehicle as well. Speaking of which, Isuzu assures us that the water wading depth of 800mm is super safe and can be counted on.
As far as the interior is concerned, Isuzu installed leather-covered seats, with the driver’s side electrically-adjustable. The leather-covered steering wheel – adjustable for height and reach – is the multifunction type, offering adjustment for functions like music, voice instruction, phone access, menu reading and others. One of my favourite features is the underrated cup holder, which sits on the right hand side of the steering wheel for the driver, left for the front passenger. It works well because when it is hot or warm and the air con is set to cold, it keeps the drink cold. The opposite applies on cold days when the air con is warm or hot.
Conventional charging ports front and rear are available for mobile phones. Same mobile phones can be used to connect to Apple Carplay or Android Auto via the 22.8cm infotainment touch screen.
Isuzu has played its cards pretty well with the D-MAX, particularly in this LSE 4×4 guise. Customers get the legendary utility and reliability of the Isuzu bakkie, combined with modern comfort creatures that the daily user would demand. No wonder they sell so many of these every month.
