2020 Isuzu D-Max LS-T expert review: It's old, but it's reliable! But should you buy it? | 4K

It's one of the oldest utes in the segment, and it's about to be replaced. But, we wanted to have one more drive of the Isuzu D-Max before it gets knocked off its perch by the brand new model. Is it still worth considering? Paul Maric finds out!
Read the full review: www.carexpert.com.au/review/2...
Skip Ahead:
Intro: 00:00
Exterior: 01:11
Interior: 03:43
Infotainment: 04:48
Features: 06:18
Practicality: 07:53
On the Road: 10:11
Verdict: 15:01
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‪@isuzuute‬

[@CarExpertAus]

Skip Ahead: Exterior: 01:11 Interior: 03:43 Infotainment: 04:48 Features: 06:18 Practicality: 07:53 On the Road: 10:11 Verdict: 15:01

[@mariusvanniekerk7707]

Here in South Africa you come across many of the older 2.8 Isuzu's with more than 600k on the clock. If you are looking for reliability, you can't go wrong 🇿🇦

[@CarExpertAus]

Very nice. They're quite popular in Australia for long distance touring as well! It's hard to go wrong with them for reliability.

[@mphoramudzwagi7292]

I agree

[@CarMojo]

I had a chance to do some offroading with d-max some two years ago. I would call it confident spartan worker. Less features = less things to break. And that lady (sheila) from the local dealership told me - the reliability really is great (I trust her, since she was really nice and pretty 🙂). The only issue is that it is hard to spot d-max on the roads because they are all crawling off-road.

[@CarExpertAus]

Ha ha. Very true. They’re basic, but they’re a great all rounder.

[@nkosicollier4984]

I can honestly see myself driving one of them. I like how its basic and doesn't have much features. I'm a simple guy that likes simple basic vehicles. Excellent review 👌🏿

[@CarExpertAus]

You’re not alone, @nkosi collier! A lot of people want to avoid unnecessary gizmos and gadgets!

[@jefffletcher3178]

You could get a BT50 XTR or even the GT for less, and a better ute to drive, more power, better gearbox, same fuel economy, proven reliability too.

[@vuthwatnakpiseth6616]

This channel has a lot of potential

[@CarExpertAus]

Thank you! What else would you like to see?

[@vuthwatnakpiseth6616]

Just keep doing your thing. Keep it up 😉💪

[@besamuyembe656]

Best D Max review I've watched! Thanks..

[@letsseeif]

Thanks Paul for another thorough and excellent car review on Isuzu D-Max LS-T . Though I've never driven a modern Ute, when I did NASHO, nine years prior to The Vietnam War, way back in 1958, I drove utes in The Royal Australian Army RASC (service corps). They were military painted matt brown Utility Versions of the FJ Holden (built at Fishermans Bend) with 'three on the tree' manuals (pre automatics) & as we drove around Melbourne from one Army depot to another delivering unimportant bits of & pieces, my mate & I sang every rock & roll song of the day. I remember turning to him (in Sydney Road Coburg) & saying, "apart from the lack of sheilas, Darrel, I reckon we've cracked it for the best time in human history to be alive." Anyway. that was then. Thanks for putting up with my endless drivel.

[@CarExpertAus]

Very cool! Love these stories 😄

[@gerhardcronje8915]

I sold my first 2007 3l TDI on 305 000km. Not a single problem. I currently have a 2010 3l Dteq and it's going strong on 268 000km. It's pretty much bulletproof. A friend of mine's 2007 has over 730 000km on his. I agree with you about all the features the Dmax lack when compared to other competitors, but if you're looking for an old school ute that'll get the work done easily, the Dmax is the way to go.

[@CarExpertAus]

Wow, very impressive!

[@sierracharlie7293]

Good explanation on the DPF comparison mate, I haven't heard the other guys lay it out like that.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks! Yeah it’s a curious feature but a great idea to place it there given how much easier it is for burning diesel particulates.

[@Boy_O_Boy]

I love your reviews!Simple,honest and straight to what is necessary!You will make a good car salesperson😆👍

[@CarExpertAus]

Thank you, mate! Hah, I think I'd be a bad salesman. I'd always tell them to go test drive everything else first!

[@Boy_O_Boy]

@@CarExpertAus Really appreciate you care to review the isuzu pick truck coz i am a big fan of pickups and it is the only pick up available in india!One favour,can you please review the jeep compass(if that car is available in australia)?Thank you👍

[@CarExpertAus]

We will try and add this one to our list of reviews - keep an eye out! :-D

[@oxygenRix]

Great honest and in-depth review

[@lawrencegatt4515]

Thanks for another wonderful video Paul.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks!

[@sebastianmirandasolis]

I have had a Dmax since 2014. 168,000km on the odometer today The only problem that has given me was a water leak in the cabin, just in a union of parts near the roof and the windshield. It happened after the warranty expired, but it was a simple and cheap repair We are a family of 4: my wife, my children (8 and 5 years old) and me. And it has worked well for us

[@CarExpertAus]

THanks for the feedback - glad it's still going strong!

[@HecKaTorN]

this was one of the best car/pick-up reviews i’ve seen. and i’ve seen quite alot of those. much better than other well-known car channels such as carwow, cilmer & so on.

[@littleteethkeith]

My mom had a 2002 Trooper. That thing was awesome. I loved it. We don’t see a lot of Isuzu’s in America anymore. I would love to have this truck.

[@demitrikaren1812]

Excellent review

[@isaacmusimenta5818]

Thank you Paul for the insightful reviews. Here in Uganda, we have a clearance sale for this model going on at our Isuzu dealership and I am looking to buy the 2.5DT X-Rider version which I guess you guys over there didn't get. I largely agree with your review because we have a fleet (14 to be exact) of these versions at my workplace and they have been unrelentingly faithful workhorses since the day we got them. Kudos to the good work.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thank you!

[@_CasualJan]

Usually not interested in utes at all; I don't have a use case for them in my life. Still watched though, because I think @CarExpert deserves my support and because I think Paul does a great review.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks, Kevin!

[@nsenterprises.971]

Hi Paul. What an amazing review, it's unfortunate that you didn't show the key features.

[@kieranmccann7823]

Paul seeing your not paid to tell a story about a car anymore by manufacturers influence, can you give a car a reliable score, say some euro trash, in ten years would you own it. Or warranty only car. Example a merc A 250 vs I 30 n. Not everyone leases a car for 3 years. Some like me go for second hand bargains 2 to 4 years. Appreciation on depreciation and reliability. Cheers keep up the good work.

[@CarExpertAus]

If it were my money, I’d only be buying a car with warranty remaining. I’d have no issues owning a European car, but I don’t know I’d own a newer Euro car out of a warranty unless I had a reliable and trustworthy mechanic. Most cars will be perfectly fine, but that’s what I’d be doing if it was my money. I would also personally avoid a car with a dual clutch transmission.

[@ebodabe6471]

My 1994 Isuzu Rodeo has 265k on the clock and still runs like it rolled off the lot yesterday. Only rust can kill an Isuzu, and even then it'll still run haha

[@CarExpertAus]

Awesome to hear! I’m hoping the new one is just as reliable and capable 😁

[@ebodabe6471]

@@CarExpertAus I forgot to mention that's in miles, not kilometers haha

[@garynew9637]

My tf has 480,000

[@stephengriffin4990]

Good review bring on the new model which looks great

[@CarExpertAus]

THanks, Stephen. We're looking forward to the new one! As long as they retain the ruggedness and reliability of the current generation, they will be on to a winner!

[@TheAthavanleon]

You got only 11K Sub ? How come- is it a different channel - I swear I have subscribed before to your channel... I love the D- max... its one of the best for basic works-

[@napassacholkulkittisawat4141]

I'm also a Big Fan of isuzu , I'v ever test drive it's really cool

[@DIE-BOER-KIES]

Love the videos, can you do a off-road view to? Please

[@cameronm4201]

Is the Ford Ranger the only Ute where the reverse camera is dead centre and has a line that you can zoom in on for a much better view of the tow bar?

[@CarExpertAus]

Nah, I think there are a few out there. Colorado definitely had it and pretty sure Navara does as well.

[@KazanKhan786]

Hey Paul I also had that same problem with the adjustment of the seat when I test drove the 2019. Hmm regarding the engine you say noise I would say character that unique sound of a roaring Isuzu engine really brings back memories. I hope the new Isuzu has much more safety and interior features but I would be disappointed if the sound of the engine was isolated.

[@CarExpertAus]

From memory the engine is fairly similar, so I think the sound will stay!

[@Samie229]

In Pakistan, it has electronic height adjustable for driver seat. I am owning one and have taken it off road a number of times. Never had a problem so far. The only bad that I have noted is a bad paint job. Easily gets swirl marks.

[@TheAthavanleon]

I have one here in Sri Lanka at my office with almost 900 K

[@sebastianbueno6823]

In Paraguay is the best pick-up!!! 👏🏻💪🏼

[@CarExpertAus]

Great to hear! Which other pickups do you have over there?

[@yoursandeeprao]

Crisp & sharp! Requesting video review of Isuzu mu-X

[@CarExpertAus]

Coming soon, Sandeep!

[@rforracemode5846]

Will you do a jeeo gladiator review when it comes out?

[@CarExpertAus]

Definitely!

[@user-fl4fe4zs4x]

Looking at a space cab 2020 28,000 ks. Serviced by d max and well looked after. Private sale asking 55000. Thinking a bit exy. Opinions??

[@johnlee2540]

The engine noise is a signature , since 1980 ,

[@leemitchener1868]

Had my dmax 3.0 for years 180k rides like new had the others they don’t come close reliability is king what use are gadgets in a broken down truck?

[@VinnySuccessJesusfam]

I have a 2004 isuzu rodeo s 3.5 ... This thing is a tank..just runs and runs. I can buy or own any truck I want..but love this thing so much ..I just can't..I updated mine with android radio...with back up camera ..I definetly would recommend isuzu...

[@morishogo144]

First to comment. Woow. 😆 You can speak more about reliability in your reviews we will appreciate it.

[@CarExpertAus]

We will cover as much as we can. Keep in mind that we generally review new models and it’s hard to comment on reliability if the drivetrain is new. Much easier with D-Max because it hasn’t changed in a while.

[@nicholasgeorge1883]

Always loved the DMax... very expensive here in Trinidad but I know it's very reliable vehicle. Engines are bulletproof...lol

[@youngie73]

The only issues with the facelift DMAX 17+ when they changed to the 6 speed autos are turbocharger issues. Pretty common actually. One of our work utes replaces at 40k

[@CarExpertAus]

Interesting! What were the issues with the turbochargers? Were they failing?

[@youngie73]

CarExpert yeah correct mate. Over boost issues and internal cartridge failures.

[@stepan.poluianov]

That's fun to see measurements of softness of the interior plastic with instruments. From one side, that's great and absolutely reasonable, but from another side, I have feeling "cmon, that's a truck! should we go really that far with plastic reviews?"

[@CarExpertAus]

Good point, Stepan. Keep in mind we do the same test on every car we test - whether it's a truck or not :-D it's just a relative tool and you probably want hard plastics in a truck anyway.

[@stepan.poluianov]

@@CarExpertAus yes, that's why I said that it is reasonable. I just wish you to keep being consistent in your measurements.

[@mitchell5064]

Best ute on the market. Bulletproof.

[@houssinedridi5887]

Bonjour s,il vous plaît comment je peux commander une jante pour isuzu d.max gt modèle 2020

[@jefffletcher3178]

Fairly honest review. I had one of the first with the 6 speed, and I could not say the auto was any good though. Constantly hunting on the highway in 6th, corse with the cruise control. I ended up trading it because it was a dog when towing, no problem power wise, but the gearbox just wanted to stay in 4th all the time, and that's right in the rev range when that loud engine is at its noisiest. Yeah you can override it manually, but then the torque converter wouldn't lock up and your doing the same or more revs, heating up the A/T. Fuel economy not that great either. I could never get better than low nines unloaded and about 17 to 18 towing

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks Jeff - appreciate the feedback!

[@JWORLDKING]

Let's facing

[@Naessey]

Out of interest, has anyone purchased the DMax where they had their hearts/head set on the HiLux/Ranger? My heart was set on the Ford but I keep coming back to the Toyota/DMax and starting to lean more to the DMax. I have no allegiance to any and believe all are excellent overall. Let me know if you were in similar position and what changed your mind on the DMax apart from price?

[@bondarkenergy]

I'm thinking about getting one, I want to use it for everything, except towing, and get rid of my car, but my concern is which ute has the most durable engine and gearbox.

[@jasonleedham5678]

Interested to se whats for sale in Aus, I have a 2014 Dmax- visually almost the same as this. Mine has a 2.5 twin turbo and 6 speed manual-400nm , our current model is a 1.9 (only option) My infotainment is different, and i have 6 way power drivers seat (heated) Also my truck is quiet, as in almost silent at highway speeds. To my mind they don't "win" anything, but come a strong second in everything

[@rampagedingo]

Here in Mozambique you rarely find isuzus on the road but thats because they're out there in the bush being used as workhorses. Concerning complaints about it, my mother doesn't like the noisy cabin. Apart from that one of my classmates has a 2003 isuzu kb and he had it for 500 thousand kilometers before selling it and it still kept on going. I met this dude with a 4x2 KB the other day and he said that everyday people call him on the phone asking if he's selling his isuzu. They are underated trucks.

[@luyandajojo8925]

Q

[@craigstevenson7708]

Just some suggestions Civic rs or sti-l Suzuki ignis, swift, vitara Toyota chr Mitsubishi eciplse, outlander Vovlo xc40, the sedan one too Jeep cherooke, compass (haven't seen many compass reviews that are not off roading videos gladiator once it's out Skoda superb 160kw Skoda scalia (new car might get lots of views) Suzuki jimny as i hear its a sell out Honda crv, hrv Brz, 86 mx5 I30 N fastback (seems under rated) I'm sure you have plenty planned and I don't wanna be invasive just some suggestions :) you channel Will go far I reckon

[@CarExpertAus]

Thank you for those suggestions, @blurrppee05! Some of those are on the way :-D

[@JWORLDKING]

Does it have a rear differential lock? Regards Jay

[@fanniemakhokha8269]

it does

[@madhardcorenick]

Not the best ute to buy in 2020 new. However, it is a great ute to buy used in 2020!

[@jayvongajilloma6388]

This is my dream car

[@roney6562]

Mine too 😭

[@davidackley4102]

Just wait for the new dmax in a few months. It definately looks worth the wait

[@CarExpertAus]

Definitely! We are looking forward to jumping behind the wheel 😁

[@kdcan724cnls4]

Isuzu = Reliability!

[@mcaudery]

Good review, but I never had an issue with my Bluetooth.

[@skotatnite]

I’m waiting on the new model

[@yashwin8342]

Is there any dmax’s owner who can tell me how many kilometers can we drive with a full tank please? Heard that its really fuel efficient, is it true?😕

[@amic9516]

645 km.

[@gregorykearney8482]

Do they have bad DPF problems.

[@CarExpertAus]

Not that I'm aware of, Gregory! I mentioned in the review that Isuzu has combatted those DPF issues by moving the DPF closer to the turbocharger. That allows it to reach peak operating temperature quicker than it would if it was fitted under the car like most other utes/trucks.

[@jefffletcher3178]

@@CarExpertAus 60000k with mine never had a problem.

[@johnlee2540]

A reliable budget airline , economy seat , don't expect good in-flight entertainment , noisy front suspension rubber after aging , take good care of the injection system .

[@CarExpertAus]

Very good analogy, John!

[@kingwillbisthebest]

When are you expecting to get a chance to properly review the new DMAX/BT50?

[@CarExpertAus]

Very soon we hope!

[@JWORLDKING]

I really like to know

[@andrewnewman9150]

Looks like a 2015 Colorado I used to have on the inside

[@CarExpertAus]

You're right, Andrew! They shared the same platform and interior up until the later Colorado facelift.

[@cantiladrianeb.6241]

All i know that d-max Is built like a tank💪

[@jeffrey3530]

WRONG tanks are build like a D-Max

[@tonygrey3340]

I purchased my 5 speed manual LSU Spacecab as soon as they hit the showroom in Sept 2012. I now have 170,000km, of which approx 50,000km is outback touring on some tough roads & 10,000km is towing 2 tonne van. I have always serviced the car as per the manual, and the only mechanical issues I have had are "wear & tear" items. I will probably keep the car for another few years until it has 250k on the clock, then replace with the next model Dmax. The running gear is bullet proof, and I can drive all day and feel fresh when I get out of the car. Its reliability is it's greatest strength, it's a brilliant ute.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks for the feedback, Tony! Always great to hear from owners. Has it been expensive to maintain in terms of scheduled servicing?

[@tonygrey3340]

Hi @@CarExpertAus, I have always got the car serviced with Ultratune, as I have never been a fan of an overpriced dealership service. Major service have been every 40k, at a cost of circa $800-$1,100 each, and minor services at every 10k inbetween major services at circa $350-$450. I don't know what other cars cost for servicing, but I am happy with the service costs.

[@damienferrara3078]

@@tonygrey3340 Hi Tony, reading your response to Paul regarding servicing costs. As I work for an Isuzu Ute dealership in the west of Sydney (won't mention name in case you think I'm advertising), but the prices you mentioned are in fact very similar to what we charge, and that's using Isuzu genuine filters and parts. The next question you should ask yourself is, are they really doing the service as per Isuzu scheduling, e.g. cleaning and repacking front wheel bearings every 30k service or replacing the power steering high pressure hose every 80k service..Plus as a dealer we have Isuzu training and back up, if Ultratune have issues, guess who they call for advise. Just saying. You know.

[@tonygrey3340]

@@damienferrara3078 ​ Hi Damien, thanks for the reply. I live in QLD, and if our local Isuzu dealership quoted the same prices as Ultratune, then I would use the local dealership, but they consistently quote much higher servicing prices (I don't understand why). I always ask for a quote for the service before I book it in from both local dealership & Ultratune, and the dealer has a habit of being more expensive. Just my experience.

[@jordanhamer6087]

When’s the new model coming out

[@supernova8715]

Team Rush true only thailand has the new one

[@scottkelly481]

1 September the new model comes out.

[@supernova8715]

@@scottkelly481 can't wait!

[@sophdog1678]

The hardness of interior plastic? Who cares? Is it reliable? Is it good to drive? Does it do the job it's meant for? It seems to be only motoring journalists who give a shit about interior plastics. I sure don't.

[@JWORLDKING]

I got the awesome Aisin 5 speed Transmission and this is the best AT i ever had, it Appears to me, that these are really durable and reliable for truck towing BUT.....Why they Programmed it that stupid, once u hit the Gas, the Transmission slides out of the Torque Converter??? In my case u can max get 45% of Engine power, that the Transmission hold , from there it slides out and start to heat and strain the Transmission more. For a basically good work truck, a little week in this case, score. Another Question to the 6speed A/T did you drove it always with a Trailer if it shows its moody 4th speed gear rest???? Ore moreover also without a Trailer? The 3.0 Engine is originally as dar as i kkow a us Cummins Truck diesel Engine i could believe, one of the best undestroiablest engines in this world. Regards Jay

[@vacuumunit]

I DONT NEED NO CREATURE COMFORT... the basic Ute is good enough for me

[@garynew9637]

The less tech on a bush Ute the better!

[@lanceb2641]

Isuzu’s were built to abuse. Tough truck , Literally very TOUGH!

[@CarExpertAus]

True!

[@twistedthrottle8513]

my bt 50 blown engine cracked piston at 249000ks ,just got a 018 dmax xcab ls-u with 150,000, one owner ,cant wait to pick it up ,

[@deanravenhall1371]

0:43 is the sad thing. people buy 4wds but rarely take them off road.

[@CarExpertAus]

True!

[@peace4myheart]

Is it I-Suzu or EE-Suzu? Serious question. I always thought it's EE-Suzu. I'm from America BTW.

[@CarExpertAus]

Eye-soo-zoo 😁

[@peace4myheart]

@@CarExpertAus Eye-See-You

[@CarExpertAus]

😅

[@boxy4973]

This is a real mans car not a soccer mums car. Some times less is better

[@zeke6941]

U guys need an intro

[@alflowis1615]

If you take it off road and do all the things they do in the promo, surprise. No warranty for you. Limp mode and isuzu said no warranty.

[@ilyassaid9075]

Rauh Welt 🧐👍🏻

[@GABTICO94]

as a dmax owner, it's not a family car

[@TheDarknessConsumesMe666]

But do you own *that* model D-Max?

[@GABTICO94]

@@TheDarknessConsumesMe666 yes

[@alfredchhangte3063]

It seems an older model,not 2020 model

[@alenkaltak4344]

I stop watching @7:50 special price $55k on top spec with all ball and whistles 🤣😂🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@CarExpertAus]

Time to get your haggling hat on 😄

[@lawrencegatt4515]

Ford Ranger still no 1 🏁

[@CarExpertAus]

The new one looks like it’ll be a ripper too!

[@shamingandembrassingdriver2718]

New dmax gonna shit over the new bt50 and hi lux 2021

[@endzmeetmusic9053]

Lol 52K

[@NoTaboos]

The worst of a bad bunch.

[@CarExpertAus]

It still has its merits 😁

[@tommygun2050]

Has a 20 year old engine out of a Holden rodeo in a 2020 model car no much R&D has gone into it for a company that only makes Diesel engines also looks like a plastic shit heap.

[@smclavis]

Why not wait for the New Dmax to come out?? Pointless

[@CarExpertAus]

Because it’s not on sale yet in Australia and people are likely to buy the current generation in run out. We will review the new one as soon as it’s available.

[@JWORLDKING]

Every one who "needs" soft plastic in a serious to see Pickup truck, is no really clear minded intelligent MAN! Actually in every "Driving instrument" if u need a honest faithful vehicle, you need to at least a completely hard Plastic interior. Let's talk us 8 to 30 Years later, than this Vehicle will look still decent. And if u looking to the for example German car piles of junk, or dose "fancy" Fords ect, you will cry and run because everywhere it is about, to falling apart. And all the chemical very harmful Poisons in that ridiculously SOFT PLASTIC.... A arm rest for example your sweet is going there all the time and resolute it step by step, gets after time guaranteed broken and Ugly and the most worst, it makes "mens to womens" and thats 100% proofed and sure.

[@nathangriffiths4629]

Durometer.... Seriously? its a car review not a mattress review

[@JWORLDKING]

Every one who "needs" soft plastic in a serious to see Pickup truck, is no really clear minded intelligent MAN! Actually in every "Driving instrument" if u need a honest faithful vehicle, you need to at least a completely hard Plastic interior. Let's talk us 8 to 30 Years later, than this Vehicle will look still decent. And if u looking to the for example German car piles of junk, or dose "fancy" Fords ect, you will cry and run because everywhere it is about, to falling apart. And all the chemical very harmful Poisons in that ridiculously SOFT PLASTIC.... A arm rest for example your sweet is going there all the time and resolute it step by step, gets after time guaranteed broken and Ugly and the most worst, it makes "mens to womens" and thats 100% proofed and sure.