Motive force comes from a four-pot common-rail turbocharged and inter-cooled diesel engine displacing a total of 2,499 cc. Maximum power of 136 PS at 3,600 RPM and maximum torque of 294 Nm from 1,800-3,200 RPM goes to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
Slot the gear lever into first, press the accelerator, and the D-Max moves forward eagerly. The gearshift is smooth, and engine noise becomes more manageable at higher speeds. The power steering, though, remains incommunicative and feels disconnected from the road surface.
Performance is sprightly – I pushed the D-Max to 170 km/h before I ran out of road, and it felt good for another five to 10 km/h. Fuel economy (by ARAI standards) of 13.26 km/l, in combination with the 76-litre fuel tank, gives an estimated overall range of 1,000+ km. Real-world economy and range figures, though, are likely to be lower.
The D-Max grips the road fairly well; there is some body-roll, though. Straight-line high-speed manners are impressive – even at top speed, the D-Max gives its occupants no cause for worry. Rapid lane changes were not unsettling either.
The ride of the D-Max is smooth and comfortable; bear in mind that this was a test track with nary an undulation or rough patch. We could not drive it off-road or on a rough surface due to the restrictions at the WABCO track.
The D-Max is a classy package, bringing together Isuzu’s diesel engine expertise and specialisation in utility vehicles. The well-priced variants cater to different needs and there is finally an affordable, well-built lifestyle pickup for Indian buyers. What is awaited is homologation of the D-Max for personal use – currently, only commercial users may buy it, and that could drive potential private buyers towards competing offerings. If you want a pickup matching style with substance, the D-Max might just answer your prayers!
