We get to grips with the upgraded Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck in top-end V-Cross spec…
If you’re a farmer or tradesperson in need of a rugged, reliable 4×4 workhorse of a pick-up, then the choice these days is likely to be between a Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, KGM Musso or Isuzu D-Max.
Isuzu only make commercial vehicles, and market themselves the “Pick-Up Professionals”, so if you are looking for a competitively-priced pick-up, where better to start?
Originally launched in the UK in 2021, the third generation D-Max was treated to updates in 2023 and 2025, and it’s available as both a single or double cab, with the epic Arctic model topping the range.
Starting at £27,755 ( VAT) for the Single Cab ‘D-Max Utility’, my test vehicle was a generously equipped Double Cab ‘D-Max V-Cross’ (from £38,255 VAT).
My week included extensive driving on a variety of roads, a spot of green-laning, plus a challenging off-road course at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire.
First impressions are good. The D-Max have evolved over the years into a handsome brute, conforming to the pick-up template, but slightly shorter and lower than its main rivals.
Despite that, the double cab’s load bed is a decent 1,520mm long, 1,530mm wide and 500mm deep and there’s space inside for five adults. Naturally, it’s also capable of towing up to 3.5 tonnes and carrying a payload of more than a tonne.
Powered by a four-cylinder 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine delivering 162bhp and 266lb ft of torque, my D-Max came with a six-speed automatic gearbox (a six-speed manual is also available).
Isuzu claims 31.4mpg fuel economy and 235g/km of CO2 emissions for the D-Max V-Cross auto, which isn’t great, and of course, that headline figure will vary according to how and where you drive, and how much cargo you carry.
That said, I managed closer to 35mpg on a long run, and with its 76-litre fuel tank, a range of more than 500 miles is very possible. And, all in all, you can’t expect car-like economy from a big, heavy workhorse.
Standard equipment on the D-Max V-Cross includes a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, leather seats, 18-inch alloys and folding/heated door mirrors, plus a full suite of safety and driver assistance features. In other words – more equipment than most mainstream road cars of the same price.
Once you’ve stepped up into the cabin and settled in, you’ll find there’s a fairly high driving position, which delivers a commanding view of the road.
In an age of minimalism, the mix of touchscreen, buttons, switches and dials is refreshing – especially for essentials such as climate control.
The infotainment system is a huge improvement, but still not cutting edge, while the interior materials used are more durable than premium – even if there are a few more soft-touch surfaces than before.
On the road, the D-Max is easy to drive in an old-school kind of way. The steering is light enough, if a little vague, while the leaf-sprung suspension doesn’t deliver the most sophisticated ride.
It feels stable though, and cruises well, while the turning circle is impressively tight. Overall, it’s fine on the road, but some rivals feel more polished.
The engine gets the job done, but that diesel clatter is ever-present under acceleration. It’s a tad down on power compared to some competitors, while the automatic gearbox is smooth, but hesitates before kicking down.
There’s still more than enough grunt for off-roading, which is where the new D-Max V-Cross comes into its own, because it’s more capable than ever.
As well as a rear differential lock, hill start assist and hill descent control, all 4×4 models also get the all-new Rough Terrain Mode – an extension of the traction control system which helps to reduce wheel spin and allocate power to the wheels with the most grip.
To say I was impressed by the D-Max’s off-road agility would be an understatement. It made mincemeat of the various challenges at the Millbrook Proving Ground course, which is used for military vehicle testing.
With superb traction, a wading depth of 800mm and solid underbody protection, it coped with steep inclines, jaw dropping descents, rock crawling, epic leans and water crossings with ease.
The technology worked a treat. The only thing that would make it even better would be a virtual view of the terrain obscured by the bonnet, which is great when climbing a hill with a steep drop the other side.
Ultimately, the D-Max V-Cross is well worth considering if you’re looking for a rugged, affordable 4×4 for all the family and you don’t want an SUV.
However, the majority of sales will still go to tradespeople and farmers. Talking of which, I took a Toyota Hilux-driving farmer friend for a spin in the D-Max around his estate, and he was impressed, so praise indeed.
And if you’re looking for some peace of mind, each new D-Max comes with a 125,000-mile, five-year warranty, and five years of UK and European roadside assistance.
Verdict: The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross pick-up truck is a tough, dependable workhorse that’s seriously capable off-road. What it lacks in sophistication and engine choice, it gains in affordability, generous equipment levels and practicality.
