We like
Tradie/fleet spec’ steel wheels, one-tonne-plus payload, factory hardcover option hooked up to remote central locking

Room for improvement
Factory hardcover option noisy, smaller engine needs to be pushed, hard-riding rear end when tray is empty

Overview

 

SHORTLY after the launch of the recently upgraded 2023 D-Max line up, we had the opportunity  to test drive arguably the most exciting addition to the range—the $50,200 plus ORC base-model, 1.9-litre, 4x4 SX crew cab. 

 

It’s a less powerful yet more economical model that we put through its paces to assess the overall value proposition. 

 

Isuzu has used the RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine in overseas markets for more than five years, so it’s a proven powertrain, but with 110kW/350Nm, the smaller donk isn’t quite as gutsy as the 3.0-litre ‘4J’ turbo-diesel that Aussies have come to love. 

 

Despite its smaller displacement, the 1.9-litre engine produces 350Nm of torque between 1800-2600rpm, so it’s got an adequate spread courtesy of an electronically-controlled variable geometry turbocharger.

  

While Isuzu offered the 1.9-litre engine in its 4x2 SX range last year, this is the first time Australians have had the option of a smaller-capacity 4x4 D-Max. 

 

This is big news for business, mining and fleet buyers many of whom require 4x4 but still want a light-sipping engine. 

 

The twin-under-the-skin Mazda BT-50, which Isuzu builds, has been offered with the smaller engine in its 4x4 XS model for the past year, priced from $51,240 plus on roads. 

 

At the price point, Isuzu’s 1.9-litre SX 4x4 comes in almost a grand cheaper which could be a clincher for fleet buyers. 

 

When we tested the 1.9-litre equipped 4x2 SX early last year, it returned fuel consumption of 8.9l/100km against Isuzu’s claimed 6.9l/100km, but oddly the 4x4 model - even with moderate off-road use - used just 8.8l/100km across 1000km of testing.

  

For reference, my personal 3.0-litre 2022 D-Max sees anywhere from 9litres/100km to 11litres/100km, depending on severity of driving conditions, particularly off-road work.

 

So, the 1.9-litre engine is clearly a light sipper and the couple of thousand dollars saved opting for the smaller engine is also a nice perk for business buyers but how does it drive?

 

 

Driving Impressions

  

 

Getting out of the 3.0-litre D-Max and into this SX, it’s instantly noticeable with 100Nm less and a lazier feel off idle. 

However, once you adjust to driving it a little harder that 350Nm torque figure is ample and plenty for around town and even off-road use. 

 

The electronic steering is fantastic, and less weight over the front axle can’t hurt when cornering—although it isn’t noticeable.

  

The six-speed automatic is the only transmission offered in the 1.9 4x4 SX, but the smaller engine does need to be worked harder and extra gear ratios would help to keep it on the boil.

  

Importantly, the 1.9-litre SX gains an additional 85kg of payload over its 3.0-litre stablemate offering up a healthy 1150kg capacity.

  

Our test model had a factory hardcover and tow kit fitted leaving 1067kg of payload which keeps it up over the magic one-tonne number. 

 

Its maximum braked towing capacity, however, drops to 3,000kg, down on the 3500kg limit we have grown used to. If you plan on doing a lot of towing, the 3.0-litre engine is a better choice, plain and simple. 

 

The factory hardcover option on this test vehicle looks and performs well with integrated central locking, however it can be noisy over rough roads something not unusual for this style of flip-up hard cover. 

 

Visually, the SX scores basic 17-inch steel wheels shod in competent Dunlop AT25 rubber, and it looks like a simple work ute from just about every angle. 

 

For 2023, Isuzu tweaked the front grille and added lashings of black around the vehicle as well as minor functionality upgrades like a gas strut assisted tailgate that’s two-finger light. 

 

Inside, the 7.0-inch infotainment screen offers wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto while analogue dials below take care of temperature control. The system is quick to connect and its functionality is refreshingly simple. 

 

The entire range scores Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS) with the full suite of driver aids and, for 2023, Isuzu added an auto-off for rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring when towing. 

 

Base SX models like this one also get a second 2.1A USB charging point, compared to 2022 models that only had one USB port.

  

The 2023 D-Max range was re-tested by ANCAP a few months back and again scored a full five-star rating. 

 

In terms of operating costs, services come around every 15,000km or 12 months and personal, business and fleet buyers all get a six-year/150,000km warranty with capped price servicing for seven years. 

 

While personal buyers will likely prefer the grunt and lazy torque of the 3.0-litre SX model, if buying at the low end of Isuzu’s 4x4 D-Max range, fleet and tradie buyers can now get into a D-Max for less money while also saving at the bowser.