It’s been so long coming that it almost doesn’t feel like news any more, but the updated Isuzu D-Max officially made its UK debut at the CV Show 2017.
Powered by a downsized 1.9-litre engine and equipped with a revised appearance that claims improved aerodynamics, the facelifted D-Max is more efficient than before. You can even have a six-speed automatic gearbox in place of the old five-speed unit, if you don’t feel like shifting with the standard six-speed manual.
Better yet, despite these tweaks – and 40Nm fewer than the 2.5-litre model it replaces – the 2017 D-Max retains its famed 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and continues to promise strong value.
How the 2017 Isuzu D-Max compares
To be exact, the new 1.9-litre engine produces 164hp and 360Nm, versus 163hp and 400Nm for the 2.5-litre model. Official fuel economy is now as high as 45.6mpg for the entry-level 4×2 Utility model, while the thirstiest automatic versions claim 36.2mpg.
The broad mix of utility and lifestyle models carries over almost exactly as before, albeit with extra items of equipment in most cases, and so too does the five-year, 125,000-mile warranty. Pricing starts £15,749, and the D-Max is available to order now.
The new D-Max at the CV Show 2017
For the reveal, Isuzu not only broke out the managing director of the UK importers, Paul Tunnicliffe, but some blue led lighting and a smoke machine as well.
It was quite drama – although it has to be said the effect was ruined somewhat but the presence of several uncovered examples elsewhere on the stand. And of course the fact that we’ve driven the new D-Max already!
It was, however, interesting to hear from Tunnicliffe that Isuzu has been testing this latest model in the UK since before Christmas, seeking customer and dealer input before putting it on sale.
‘No pickup buyer,’ he said, ‘will ever get better service than they do at an Isuzu dealer.’
For more info on the 2017 D-Max check out our full pricing and spec story by clicking here.
Alternatively, read our first UK road test review right here.
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