Isuzu D-MAX as a tow vehicle 2023 review |

Isuzu D-Max – I’ve mentioned on many occasions that the Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine. But what makes it such a good Tow vehicle.

Its starts with the reliable and robust 3.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine. It provides some 140kW of power and a very useful 450Nm of torque.

That headline figure is less than some competitors, but it’s the delivery that makes it useful. Maximum torque comes on around 1600rpm and there is about 350Nm available from around 1200rpm. This is combined with a 6 Sp automatic transmission.

These two factors alone ensure that the Isuzu D-Max is an ideal tow vehicle. It will in fact tow up to 3500kg and will do it with ease. The low torque delivery also ensures frugal economy when towing. I’ve towed car trailers and caravans with the D-Max and got around 9.0L/100K doing it. That’s stunning.

Other little features are that the Isuzu comes with the towing hardware fitted as standard. You just need to add whatever hitch you want. The clear reverse camera makes hooking up a trailer easy, and when a trailer is hitched it disables some safety features that may become intrusive such as Blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert which is a bonus.

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I’m Rob Fraser

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What is good?

4WD and towing ability
Ride and handling
Class leading safety features

What is not so good?

Not a fan of the roller top
Windscreen washers in wiper blades
Would love 150kW/500Nm

More thoughts about the Isuzu D-Max LS-U+

Its comfortable and practical
You jump in it and drive and it feels like home
Packed with safety features
Lots of clever ideas like
- bag hooks on the rear of the front seats
- slide out cup holders on front dash
- dash top storage bin
- wireless Apple CarPlay
- front seat heaters
- Configurable MFD between dials on the drivers instruments
Not a fan of the windscreen washers in the wiper arms
Also not a fan of the roll top on the tub. Its takes up space and has to be opened fully to close it again. Not the best when its raining.
Like a lot of tubs, reaching the front middle section is difficult, especially with the roll top.

Some more Isuzu D-Max articles

Also look at:

Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular. There are a few on the market and everyone is aiming upmarket.

Buyers could look at Ford Ranger Sport, Toyota HiLux Rogue, Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 Thunder. SsangYong Musso Ultimate, Mitsubishi Triton GSR.

Final thoughts

I’ve said it many times. The D-Max is a robust, reliable and practical 4WD Ute.

The LS-U+ is perhaps the best value version. It has a few extra features for comfort without the bling of the X-Terrain. It would pay to check the drive away deals on the X-Terrain though

The D-Max will tow 3500kg with ease, go anywhere you will sensibly want to go off road and do it in comfort. All D-Max vehicles come with the tow assembly installed. All you have to do is add the hitch tongue you want.

Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine.

Isuzu D-Max
Model	D-MAX LS-U+
Model Price	$63,500 MLP*
Engine	3.0L 4 Cyl Turbo Diesel Euro 5
Drivetrain	6 Sp Sports AT Dual range 4WD
Power	140kW @ 3,600rpm
Torque	450Nm @ 1600-2600rpm
Safety	Five-star ANCAP (tested Sept 2022)
0-100kmh / Top Speed	TBA
CO2 Emissions	207 g/km
Economy ADR	8.0L/100km / 76L capacity
Economy on test	9.0L/100k
Max Range	1101km
Servicing	12Mth / 15,000km 7 Yrs. Capped Price
Warranty	6yr/ 150,000 km
Roadside Assist	7Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Overall Rating LS-U+	87/100
Behind the Wheel	8
Comfort	9
Equipment	9
Performance	8
Ride and Handling	9
Practicality	8
Fit for Purpose	8
AWD/Towing Capability*	10 (4WD 5/5 Towing 5/5)
Technology/connectivity	9
Value for Money	9

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.

Dimensions	Isuzu D-Max LS-U+
Overall Length	5280mm
Wheelbase	3125mm
Width	1880mm
Height	1810mm
Wheels	18×7.5 Alloy
Tyres	265/60 R18
Max ground clearance	Up to 240mm
Wading Depth	800mm
Approach	30.5 degrees
Rampover	23.8 degrees
Departure angle	19 degrees
Turning Circle KTK	12.5m
Tub Length	1570mm
Tub width arches	1122mm
Tub width	1530mm
Tub Depth	475mm
Kerb Weight	2115kg
Payload (kg)	985kg
GVM (kg)	3100kg
GCM	6000kg
Towing Capacity	3500kg
Tow Ball rating	350kg

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Isuzu D-MAX as a tow vehicle 2023 review