Improvement to the D-Max have helped it to keep pace in the pick-up market. 2017 saw the introduction of a more efficient 1.9 diesel, which has the same power figures as the older 2.5, but is more efficient. This is the sole engine choice offered, although six-speed manual and auto gearboxes are offered.

Rivals for the Isuzu D-Max are the usual pick-up truck suspects, such as the Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara, Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and VW Amarok

Image result for d-max kenya

 

 

The Utility model is a genuine workhorse, and is offered in single cab, extended cab and double cab body styles. But it’s also the most basic model, with steel wheels, unpainted bumpers and a basic interior. 

Image result for isuzu dmax double cab GM kenya

Overall, the Isuzu D-Max is geared more towards a work life than family life, but its rugged, no-nonsense character means it’ll take pretty much anything you can throw at it. It’s a great tow vehicle, too, able to haul up to 3.5 tonnes, while the load bed can easily carry over a tonne of cargo.

Running Costs

All versions of the Isuzu D-Max use the same 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, which develops 163bhp and 360Nm of torque. That’s the same power output as the old 2.5-litre unit, but with 40Nm less torque. However, Isuzu has shortened the gearing so that you stay within the power band, and if you’re towing you won’t feel the deficit.

With the six-speed manual gearbox the RWD D-Max returns 45.6mpg. This drops to 40.4mpg and 183g/km on 4×4 models, and 4×4 automatic cars return 36.2mpg.

The Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi L200 are a better bet if running costs are a priority, with those trucks returning 44.9mpg and 44.1mpg respectively.

 

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