Popular pick-up made even better
19th June 2025
Isuzu recently announced updates to its popular D-Max range of pick-ups. David Williams put the latest version through its paces.
Isuzu staged a press launch for its new models in rural Leicestershire, at a venue which featured a challenging off-road course including a muddy quarry. Just a few weeks later, a D-Max was provided to Farmers Guide for a week-long trial to find out how it performs in more typical farm situations.
Even better off-road
Standard now on all 4wd models, Rough Terrain Mode is an extension to the Traction Control System, making the most of available grip by managing the engine power and throttle response while activating the brakes at each wheel.
Conditions during the press event were ideal for trialling the new driving aid as heavy rain made the quarry sides extremely slippery. On all-terrain tyres designed for predominantly for road use, the pick-ups kept moving and completed the course where the previous version might have failed. Rough Terrain Mode is selected by a push-button switch near the gear stick, adjacent to the rear differential lock button, and it can be conveniently applied or disengaged at any time on the move.
Updated infotainment system
All D-Max models now come with a touch-screen infotainment system as standard; allowing drivers to make the most of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto when compatible smartphones are wirelessly linked.
Base Utility, as well as higher-spec DL20 and DL40 models have an 8in screen while the flagship V-Cross has a new 9in display.
Advanced driver assistance systems
Current D-Max models include a generous suite of driver assistance systems earning a 5-star NCAP rating, but the new 2025 D-Max goes even further, adding Attention Assist, Turn Assist, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Jam Assist.
New styling
All models feature a distinctive new radiator grille, a higher bonnet and new headlights and LED indicators depending on the specification. At the rear there is a redesigned tailgate and the Utility double cab, DL20, DL40 and V-Cross versions all come with improved damper assistance for easier and safer opening and closing.
Flagship on test
The D-Max provided for the Farmers Guide extended test was the flagship V-Cross automatic. The V-Cross is only available in a double cab body format, but there is a choice of manual or automatic transmissions.
Across the D-Max range, all models share the same 1.9-litre, 4cyl diesel engine and either the automatic six-speed gearbox fitted to the test vehicle, or a six-speed manual.
Although on paper the six-speed transmission is the same as before, updated models feature a better shift response with 25% faster gear changes. This helps maintain inertia under heavy loads, reducing speed variations and improving comfort for the vehicle occupants.
The D-Max 1.9-litre engine is small in comparison to some competitors, but it has plenty of grunt to lug loaded trailers uphill on soft ground and the respectable 0–62mph time of 13 seconds means it keeps up easily with other traffic.
Commercial without additional speed restrictions
All D-Max extended and double cab models have an unladen weight under 2,040kg which means that they aren’t subject to commercial speed limits applying to most other pick-ups. For those frequently undertaking long journeys, the related time-savings can be significant.
During the test week the D-Max V-Cross towed loaded trailers, travelled across fields and undertook several longer, high-speed journeys. Fuel consumption averaged just over 31mpg.
Practicality
The D-Max V-Cross has a 3,100kg gross vehicle weight and carries loads up to 1,085kg. Like all D-Max 4wd models, it has a 3,500kg towing capacity.
The rugged load bed has four tie-down points, an overall length of 154cm, overall width of 160cm narrowing to 148cm, and a 110cm gap between the wheel arches. The tailgate opening is 136cm wide, and the loading height is 63cm above the ground. The new tailgate opens gently and safely with the new damping system even though it is heavy.
For those getting in and out frequently during the working day, the wide-opening front doors are ideal. Practical leather seats are supportive and comfortable but easily wiped clean of grease and other farm deposits. The front seats are heated, and the driver’s seat has full electric adjustment.
Access to the rear of the cab is good with 56cm clearance when the doors are fully opened. The rear bench seat splits 30/70 and each section lifts to reveal concealed storage beneath.
What’s it like to live with?
Like the previous D-Max, the latest version has well designed controls which are easy to grip and use wearing gloves.
The new 9in display links well with Apple CarPlay and it is easy to use in bright sunlight and at night.
Although no farm vehicle will ever offer enough in-cab storage to keep everyone happy, the D-Max makes a good attempt, including a large box below the central armrest, cup holders, bottle holders, two gloveboxes and several flat trays.
Good view day and night
Visibility is good, although the new higher bonnet line reduces the view to the front. Driver aids include obstacle detection which works well, warning the driver with images on the multi-information display (MID). The large door mirrors provide a clear view back along the sides and the reversing camera is excellent.
The test vehicle had an optional roof-mounted LED bar light. For off-road use only, the night-
time vision for navigating tight spots in darkness and spotting obstructions a long distance ahead was phenomenal. A must-have accessory for every farm.
Reassuring back-up
All D-Max pick-ups come with a five-year, 125,000-mile warranty, and back-up from an excellent dealer network. The D-Max V-Cross Auto tested is priced at £40,005 excluding VAT on the road, while the base Utility 4×4 Double Cab manual is £27,005.
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