The Isuzu D-MAX has held a loyal following in Australia by doing a few things well and not pretending to be something it is not. It is a working ute that also happens to be a capable family vehicle on weekdays. The LS-T tested here is the top trim, which adds the comfort and technology features that make it viable as a primary vehicle rather than just a work tool.
Jenny found the D-MAX with its 3.0-litre diesel genuinely capable. The torque is suited to Australian conditions: highway overtaking, towing a trailer, the occasional dirt road on the way to a campsite. The ride is ute-standard, better unladen than loaded, but the LS-T suspension tuning is among the more comfortable in the segment. The interior in this trim is more refined than older D-MAX owners might expect.
The D-MAX LS-T earns its price by being functional without sacrificing the features that matter on a daily commute. If you tow regularly, work a farm or job site, or simply need something that will not need a mechanic for the first 200,000 km, it belongs on the shortlist. Lifestyle ute buyers who want a connected infotainment system and driver aids have better options in the segment.
The full review is on the CarTell.tv YouTube channel above.
