Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ 4WD Dual Cab Ute 2023 Review |

D-MAX LS-U+ – This week I’m driving a favourite of mine the Isuzu D-Max Ute. The version I have is the LSU+. This is next to the top spec X-Terrain and has many of the same features, just less visual bling, and accessories.

The LS-U+ comes with the robust and reliable 3.0L 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine with 140kW of power and a well-used 450Nm of torque from as low as 1600rpm. There is some 350Nm available from as low as 1200rpm.

This is matched to the 6 Sp automatic transmission.

Off road credentials come from the 4WD Terrain command subsystem that allows switching between 2wd and 4wd at speed up to 100kmh. 800MM of wading depth and standard rear diff locks.

Little features like leather highlighted and heated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity and a full suite of safety features all make the D-Max appealing.

The tub comes lined with a heavy-duty plastic insert and a roll top cover. A clever and appreciated addition this year is the gas Tailgate assist for opening and closing. I have mixed feelings about the roll top cover. Its safe and convenient but does limit load capacity.

I put the D-Max to good use carting a few loads of mulch and garden sleepers for my yard.

Its an ideal all round vehicle. Enough comfort and safety features to keep owners happy. Excellent towing and 4WD capability and frugal with fuel as well.

The Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ is priced from $63,500 plus the usual costs.

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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.

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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.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ 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 LS-U+ is a favourite Ute of mine.

Isuzu
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 LS-U+ 4WD Dual Cab Ute 2023 Review