Updated Isuzu D-Max on sale in March from £15,749

Isuzu has unwrapped the updated D-Max ahead of its UK launch in the spring. Pricing for the 2017 pick-up will start from £15,749 (excluding VAT) and feature more tech, better refinement and a new 1.9-litre diesel engine.

There are big changes under the metal, with the D-Max’s old 2.5-litre engine replaced with a new 1.9 turbodiesel. As before, the four-cylinder unit will produce 164PS, but overall torque levels are down, with the 1.9 unit producing 360Nm. However, while the new engine offers 40Nm less torque, the 2017 D-Max retains its 3.5 tonne towing capacity and 1.0 tonne payload.

Isuzu is promising significantly lower running costs and Euro6 compliance with the new engine, without the need for AdBlue, although it hasn’t released any official fuel economy ratings. It remains to be seen if the updates to the D-Max will allow it to close the gap on the Nissan Navara’s advertised 46.3mpg.

As before, the D-Max gets Shift-On-The-Fly four-wheel drive, with a rotary dial allowing the driver to switch from two-wheel to four-wheel on the move as well as accessing low range gears. Isuzu says the 2017 D-Max will be more refined than before, with lower levels of engine and road noise in the cabin. The interior will also feature more soft-touch materials to provide a car-like experience, with space for up to four adults. 

The model line-up mirrors the old D-Max, with four trim levels and a range of single, extended and double cab bodystyles. The entry-level Utility trim, will be priced from £15,749 and come equipped with LED daytime running lights, hill start assist, hill descent control and Bluetooth. 

Range-topping Blade models (from £26,999) will get tinted windows, nine-inch multi-function touchscreen, remote locking lower tailgate and a colour-coded Aeroklas canopy or sports bar with roller cover. As with the previous generation of Isuzu pick-ups, the D-Max will be covered by a manufacturer-backed five-year/125,000-mile warranty.