The Isuzu D-MAX X-TERRAIN has the needs of active Aussies covered – and then some
For most Australian families, having one car in the driveway isn’t enough to handle a typical week of work, school runs, hauling kids’ bikes and towing the boat or caravan around – until now!
The popularity of dual-cab utes like the Isuzu D-MAX has skyrocketed in recent years as car-makers widen this type of vehicle’s focus from simply being rough-riding tradies’ trucks to family-friendly all-rounders that can work as hard as they can play.
The range-topping Isuzu D-MAX X-TERRAIN is the perfect example and sets a new benchmark in its class with a raft of cutting-edge safety technologies and luxurious conveniences that makes it the only car you’ll ever need.
It’s got style
The Isuzu D-MAX arrives with a stylish new exterior design that doesn’t look out of place in any environment, from the worksite to the campground or from the school carpark to the shopping centre.
Available in single-cab, space-cab and crew-cab body styles, all D-MAX variants – except the SX range – feature a bold face that is highlighted by sleek bi-LED headlights with LED daytime driving lights and LED fog lights.
The flagship Isuzu D-MAX X-TERRAIN amplifies the D-MAX's tough character with front and rear underbody spoilers and a dark grey front grille with matching wheel-arch flares over unique 18-inch alloy wheels. The dark grey treatment continues across the door mirrors, handles, side steps and sports bar that integrates into the lockable roller tonneau cover.
The X-TERRAIN is available in eight different body colours, including vibrant Volcanic Amber Metallic which is exclusive to the flagship model.
Luxury on the inside
While the D-MAX is still definitely a dual-cab ute on the outside, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re driving a luxurious SUV when behind the wheel.
The stylish five-seater cabin is spacious and beautifully laid-out with plenty of convenient storage solutions and the latest in high-tech mod-cons such as dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning, keyless entry and push-button start, a 9.0-inch touch-screen with sat-nav, wireless smartphone mirroring for Apple and Android devices and a crisp eight-speaker ‘Sky Sound’ audio system with two roof-mounted woofers providing a richer listening experience for all occupants.
The leather-accented seats are comfortable, and the driver’s benefits from eight-way power adjustment to find the optimum position.
In the rear, passengers are treated to individual air-conditioning vents (which is a rarity in this class) as well as a separate USB charging outlet, a foldable arm rest and cup holders. Families with young children are catered for with two positions set up to carry ISOFIX-compatible child seats.
Loaded in the back
Make no mistake, the D-MAX is as rugged as it is stylish. The X-TERRAIN’s tray is fitted with a standard tub liner, has two sturdy tie-down hooks and a lockable roller tonneau cover for added security.
The tray measures 1,495mm in length, 1,530mm wide – with 1,122mm between the wheel-arches – and is 490mm deep, with a maximum payload capacity of 970kg.
Safe everywhere
No matter where you’re driving, the Isuzu D-MAX X-TERRAIN raises the bar for safety in the dual-cab ute segment.
It is fitted as standard with eight airbags, including a world-first (in a ute) centre airbag designed to prevent injuries between front seat occupants in a side collision.
The D-MAX also boasts the latest in advanced semi-autonomous driving aids, such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring and traffic sign recognition.
The power
Under the bonnet, Isuzu introduces a new-generation 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine in the D-MAX which produces 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque and drives a high-tech four-wheel drive transmission via a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox that features a torque-converter lock-up function on third, fourth, fifth and sixth gears for greater fuel consumption.
Speaking of which, the X-TERRAIN’s engine might have one of the largest overall capacities in its class, but it is highly efficient with an average consumption of just 8.0L/100km.
Go anywhere
The X-TERRAIN will also take you further off the beaten track. It’s an ideal partner for those towing a caravan or heavy loads like a boat, horse float or work trailer, with a maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg.
And its Terrain Command four-wheel drive system is simple to operate, with the ability to switch between two-wheel drive and high-range four-wheel drive via the rotary selector at speeds of up to 100km/h.
When the going gets tough, selecting low-range four-wheel drive also introduces a rear differential lock while additional electronic driving aids like Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Traction Control makes light work of rough terrain.
All D-MAX variants are fitted with snorkelled diff breathers for extra water fording abilities up to 800mm, while the X-TERRAIN has 240mm of ground clearance, a 23.8-degree ramp-over angle, 30.5-degree approach angle and 24.2-degree departure angle – which are all among the best in its class.
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