2021 Isuzu D-Max review: On-road, off-road & detailed tech test!

The all-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max is finally here! It's one of the most anticipated ute/bakkie/pickup truck launches of this year and we've finally had a chance to get behind the wheel to have a drive. Paul Maric reviews the 2021 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain, which is the top-specification Isuzu D-Max on sale. Is the new D-Max good? Watch and find out!
Hardness tester results: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
Read the full review: www.carexpert.com.au/car-revi...
Skip Ahead:
Intro: 00:00
Exterior: 00:49
Interior: 03:54
Infotainment: 05:20
Safety Tech: 06:42
Practicality: 07:09
On-road: 11:24
Off-road: 14:53
Verdict: 17:31
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#isuzu #review #dmax ‪@isuzuute‬ ‪@isuzuutesnz‬

[@walterlanguage4703]

I am so jealous that Australia and Thailand already have the new D-Max. We here in South Africa have to wait until second half of 2021. I am absolutely in love with this new D-Max design, it is by far the best looking bakkie on offer. The facelifted Hilux took a step backwards from the current version, btw the Hilux was my second best looking bakkie. I am currently driving a 2017 Isuzu KB (D-Max name in South Africa), it is an amazing bakkie even though everyone always criticizes Isuzu for their engine noise or lack of refinement, I have driven Hilux, Ranger and Amarok, and will not trade my KB for any of them. Isuzu is ultra reliable and we have 5 x different Isuzu KB's on the farm from 1986 to 2017 models and they are unstoppable. I am definitely buying a new 2021 Isuzu D-Max when it is built here in SA next year. All the advancements will just make it more desirable. This will be a killer bakkie in South Africa. Thank you for the AWESOME review. Isuzu love from South Africa.

[@CarExpertAus]

😭 thanks for watching and hopefully you guys get your hands on one soon!

[@braalo07]

Fully agreed, if i was in the market for a new pick up, DMax will be on top of my list, with the Hilux close second

[@glennoofloyd1039]

No we dont in Oz yet. I cant get one until Jan/Feb next year. Everything pre sold!

[@wernerziemerink]

Kan nie wag nie!

[@HiPlains1]

Well don't feel too bad here in the US we will NEVER get this. For some reason Isuzu left the NA market. I like this and the looks of the 2021 Navara Pro 4-X. However, the Isuzu will destroy the Nissan with that 3.0 turbo diesel. Its funny that globally the new D-Max is a real hotcake and the talk of the town whereas in the US, nobody has not even heard about it.

[@ronnysitamulaho5157]

I immediately liked & subscribed when you said skip to the part you are interested in . Haven't seen that yet

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks mate! Welcome aboard! Plenty of other Ute reviews to browse as well.

[@hemanthajith6242]

Exactly. I did the same !

[@coreylancaster1088]

Knnkp

[@coreylancaster1088]

Pp

[@BrianPessie]

Kudos 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@Nornlazy]

Isuzu really took a big leap in the interior department looks class leading

[@CarExpertAus]

Agreed - it’s a ripper interior!

[@urabusliberty9258]

Boji I’d say a lot of it had to do with Mazda’s involvement with it

[@kickheadsmuoke689]

Kind of crap that it looks like they removed the CD player to add all of that. I don’t want to pay twice to play music I already own.

[@slipswitch]

@@kickheadsmuoke689 😂

[@malcomjames4763]

@@CarExpertAus hello from Malaysian🇲🇾I love your review and all details about this all new Isuzu D-Max I hope this car will enter my market Anyway This car is very fantastic and ejoy to driving but Where are you from And is your country Are right hand drive.

[@ianthomas7863]

Best Aussie car review channel. Brilliant format, no bs, and just down to earth reviews. Look forward to the next reviews. d-max review, so informative. Thanks guys. 👍👍👍

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks buddy!!

[@imsawiranegara]

I am from Indonesia and i feel so happy that I finally found this channel. Very informative, proffesional and detail, great job.

[@AMPLIFl]

This is a top notch review. I think you’ve sold me on this Ute.

[@MR-ht8zz]

An actual genuine review of this ute! Other reviewers in Australia claim that the D-MAX has things that it actually does (such as the reversing camera or the power points inside), most likely because they were paid by competitors to talk against this amazing ute. Thank you Car Expert! Much appreciated!

[@pieterleroux4841]

Joined this channel in anticipation of this review. 6 months in the waiting and not disappointed. Love the brand and this look is great

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks mate!

[@MiggyMndza]

Loving how comprehensive this review is! Everything is tackled nicely and with enough attention to detail. Hoping to see your own version of comparos soon, especially to see how that lower hp and torque really translates from paper to real-world tarmac performance(given that another car reviews site saw that the new D-Max has a quicker acceleration time than the new 200hp Hilux). Great review nevertheless, all the advantages and flaws are nicely presented! Looking forward for the next one 👍

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks mate! We will get on to comparisons soon, we are just figuring out the best way to do them that isn’t just the same as everybody else.

[@TheDelph01]

I'm a huge 4wd wagon fan, always hated dual cabs, until I saw the new dmax, seriously considering buying one, awesome review 👌

[@sladewilson2379]

Great work Paul ! Great to see an honest & well rounded review mate. So refreshing to see that you don't get hung up and bang on over small bits like so many other reviewers.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks mate, appreciate it!

[@reeceeyles9924]

Have always appreciated the way you review a vehicle Paul. One of the best.

[@vaneshmohit6750]

Paul, you are an amazing reviewer. Great review video done by you & your team. Thanks for all the info. Waiting for it in the Mauritian market.

[@ubernoob103]

Was waiting for this! 😁 I think it looks awesome. Hopefully the 4JJ3 proves to be just as reliable as the 4JJ1.

[@mushimushimushi9176]

4jj3 is just upgraded 4jj1.

[@Naessey]

If it does, this model will be winner for years. I drove all three. Was leaning to Ford b4 Isuzu and changed my mind. The new Dmax is really nice in a lot of areas and don’t care if fastest of the lights.

[@CarExpertAus]

Fingers crossed!

[@nicoleorfinada589]

Mo

[@shingie_x]

Finally Paul. I've been waiting for your review of the DMax for the longest

[@CarExpertAus]

😁 hope you enjoy it!

[@shingie_x]

@@CarExpertAus It was on point. I'm a DMax fan in and out and you did it justice

[@TIPRASA_MOTO]

Thank you so much brother, u specifically mentioned boot length (mm) amazing video love it

[@teamjpn-ph4732]

One of the best car reviewers out there definitely!

[@Phirozdavide]

Intelligent review. Looking forward to more of your reviews.

[@themotorheadcorp.2096]

This was the most awaited review for me, and Paul, Great work Mate! I Love the D-Max to bits and awaiting the new one here in India. Keep up the good work Car Expert!

[@truthandjustice6838]

"Hello, I'm Paul...."😂 Have watched every review on this channel. Very good, keep up the good work Paul. Watching from South Africa.

[@Grant0610]

I think this really takes the D-Max forward. Looks great and I like the double grille. The interior is miles ahead of the old one! Much more civilised and worth considering. It seems so quiet!!! Love the orange colour too!

[@thabanim1594]

I love the design and the tech,price is competitive too.

[@anthonyosullivan2316]

Love the new look inside and outside well done

[@steveg6853]

Hi Paul, great review. We were looking at the Ford Ranger but knew the reliabilty of the D-Max engine is a selling point (to name a few). And after watching this and some other reviews, you sold it to me. On order, same colour and hopefully get it before Christmas 2012. Long wait. Wife is stoked.

[@samtownsend1994]

Just ordered. Awesome review, made me go and test drive and haven't looked back! So much better than the BT-50, which is amazing considering they're essentially the same ute, cheaper too!

[@user-vy1zq9pg2n]

How many years till you get it? 😂 BT50 are actually cheaper and better specced, they just don't have the poverty pack or the current special on the top tier

[@marinerchris]

Been waiting for your review Paul! Great and comprehensive as always! Love the details as always, especially on the 2nd row folding seats. Waiting here on our Market to put my deposit on that truck. Maybe a hard offroad next time? 😉

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks! We will try and get an off-road comparison sorted for when we get the group together 😁

[@marinerchris]

@@CarExpertAus Sure mate! Thanks!

[@Tranglide]

The interior has changed in leaps and bounds. In-depth review as usual from you. Waiting new Fortuner review from you Paul. And nice hair cut, considering you are in Victoria :)

[@CarExpertAus]

😅 I went to my wife’s salon, which is conveniently located in our bathroom. It was a nervous hour with her at the helm of the clippers!

[@jenell73]

Interior looks amazing!

[@joelnkosiyethushezi2953]

It looks great on the screen I can’t wait for it to hit the South African shores just so I can put it through it’s paces. Great review indeed 💪🏋️‍♀️🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@CarExpertAus]

😁

[@rowdyenergyfan6657]

Iyeza ungasabi

[@machismo599]

A very genuine and decent review without any hesitation. 👍

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks!

[@james1q2w1]

"spot for ya durries" - crack up

[@henrymahoney7072]

Awesome looking Ute. Really excited about the next gen Utes hitting the roads. Great review.

[@CarExpertAus]

Agreed! They are becoming so much more car like by the day.

[@lawrencegatt4515]

Thanks Paul another wonderful Video.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks!

[@gazg00]

I think it looks just great! Massive difference over the previous model.

[@homoerotic85]

I didn't realize Isuzu was still making vehicles. Wow, I wish they sold these in USA it's super nice!!

[@ahmadnikmatul8485]

you sir are definitely the aussie version of matt watson, very detailed and straight to the point explanations with no bs. kudos!

[@LightingComposition]

Nahhhh not even close

[@Naessey]

Great review. I know everyone talks Nm but I’ve driven all three (Ranger/Hilux) and very impressed how relaxed the Isuzu is to drive. Also, the Dmax reaches 300 Nm at 1000 revs and 450 at 1600. It’s personal, but I felt the DMax was the most linear of the three in power delivery. Personally, I was leaning to Ford but changed my mind. Keep the reviews coming. Really enjoy them.

[@CarExpertAus]

Agreed! This definitely feels punchier than the 450Nm suggests. Maybe a dyno comparison is in order?

[@tashingakeith5919]

300Nm is very impressive seeing as though my 2004 Isuzu KB300 produces 296Nm at 1800rpm and I still won’t trade it for anything coz it STILL pulls

[@Naessey]

CarExpert Would love non jargon comparison. Again, Ford was faster off the lights, but the linear power through every gear for the Dmax totally surprised me and how quickly it came on. Again, if you want get off the lights faster, the Ford is the best bet, but damn, the new Dmax is a step up. So much so, I bought one.

[@jarretfox4808]

@@CarExpertAus Another review site dyno'd the new Dmax at just under 106rwkw. Given most 3.2 Rangers come in between 103-110 the 4J is published a tad conservative I reckon. Ive driven the latest Hilux SR5, Xterrain and BT50 GT and they all feel line ball grunt-wise, the Dmax platform leans on it's torque curve with the trans mapping hunting less than the Hilux (despite both being the same Aisin transmission. The throttle mapping is a little slower off idle so some have interpreted this as turbo lag but it definitely isn't. Wouldn't be surprised if there is a mild throttle mapping change to give the impression of more grunt in the inevitable minor tweaking updates usually found in newer releases.

[@moonboy5851]

@@Naessey Carl I can’t decide between ordering an X-Terrain now or waiting for the new 22’ Ranger.

[@mayor_of_marrickville]

Great review (as usual) Paul - you've convinced me this is the best option for a decent ute mainly for blacktop and occasionally bush or sand. Putting down a deposit this week. If Rivian would take my deposit i would go a R1T but that won't be til 2024 I suspect. cheers

[@plainwrapper2008]

Great review Paul, I have watched about 10 reviews on this new model and you were the first one to show the fact that the rear seats fold up and have storage on both sides. Good job, I have one on order which is due Mid November. Again great review.

[@MBaDog-hn6ot]

yehey at last! waiting for this! 😍

[@CarExpertAus]

😁

[@kavishkarpartab2120]

Looks Angry - love it!

[@jeswinvarghese]

First video that i am seeing of yours , you have done a professional job . Really like your presentation . I am subscribing your channel .

[@CarExpertAus]

Thank you! Greatly appreciate it 😁

[@BGSala]

Thanks for this vid its very good.. I'll buy this one for sure

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks!

[@lucee2261]

Very informative video. I've had the Thailand version of this vehicle for over 12 months now & never realized that there's another pullout compartment on the driver's side - @ 9min 12 seconds. - doooh! 😳

[@MrModikoe]

A very much needed refresh from Isuzu, they've been lacking behind the competition for a while now..so yes I like the styling of car, the tech and clever storage inside..

[@CarExpertAus]

Agreed!

[@whereismymind6696]

This is the most anticipated review in my opinion.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks! Hopefully you enjoyed it.

[@zooks3894]

I love it. Especially this blackout model.

[@CarExpertAus]

Looks great in Orange too!

[@muhammadfitrihairuddin]

@@CarExpertAus what model is this?

[@sonjake21]

@@muhammadfitrihairuddin If all else fails, RTFD.

[@moonboy5851]

I love this ute. Looks mint 🔥🔥🔥

[@phumelelambelu8358]

cant wait for this big Boy to arrive in SA.

[@paulmartinic7552]

Great review as usual Paul.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thank you!

[@josephsebastian8380]

Thanks for the review

[@khalenjamoimusik6554]

My dream has become a reality I love this vehicle 🙏🏾

[@Harikarikillboy-fs5vl]

The first truck I was able to buy when I was in the US Navy was an Isuzu pup that the Chevy dealership was selling. I had wanted the 6cyl s10 that I was in love with but they wouldn’t finance me on it, but would if I got an isuzu pup. Gmac gave me the loan on the isuzu and it was the best truck I’ve ever owned. Had it for 13 years, never any problem. Ever. Put 270k miles and only sold it as I had married and the family was growing. In 1987 I paid $7,400 brand new. It had gotten stolen when I was at sea, 22k hard miles from the thieves (caught and put in prison) I just changed the oil and ran perfectly. Lived up north, always started right away. I’m sure GMAC could care less but from then on American cars haven’t been on the top of my shopping list. I wish this truck was for sale in the states.

[@rampagedingo]

This design looks crazy, we here in Africa definitely want some of these.

[@rforracemode5846]

my new favourite looking ute on sale

[@yezarmemg7720]

Awesome review 👍 Keep going...

[@benturton3358]

Thanks mate. Yet another great review. I’m a fan of the Isuzu product. Hopefully the engine stacks up. Cheers

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks! And agreed - here’s hoping it’s just as reliable as the old one!

[@grandtraveler6285]

I like your review man. 👍

[@alexirwin3968]

I just purchased one, in the Volcanic Amber(burnt orange) I won't get it till January just just went for a tour through this post. Can't wait for mine to get here.

[@kamal___0007]

You're Video's are amazing I don't know why you only have just 40k subscriber's

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks mate! Don’t forget to share the video to help us grow 😁

[@TheAthavanleon]

Isuzu - have done it. Wow it looks amazing and the interior... wow - Well done...

[@CarExpertAus]

🥳👏

[@sithabelamandlawenkosiwodu6298]

Easily the best looking at the moment. Love the side. Something about what they've done with the way it looks from the side. Better equipped than the hilux and Ranger. Well done Isuzu. It's my pick. Pity we'll only be seeing this after June 2021 here in Zimbabwe.

[@milzdeejay]

Is that actually your first name? because if it is fucking hell

[@oldbloke100]

@@milzdeejay hahaha

[@maanvindermangat1812]

Just wish isuzu wakes up to the Indian market and starts updating the models as per international launches. This thing in its new avatar will be an ultimate lifestyle vehicle here.

[@IMMNEW]

I love the fact you have tested various Utes over the same course. However you did the log climb in the D max in 4 low when it was dry but did the Triton in 4 high when soggy under wheel. How good is the Triton!

[@josephsebastian8380]

I don't wanna skip your video.......❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@brightenupcc]

Thank you for reducing the durometer test to just a mention. We're much more interested in where hard plastics are applied. Bravo!

[@pratapp]

my friends an I actually enjoy that and seeing the numbers during the review - I for one wish it came back

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks!

[@paulmshanga3310]

Am I the only one who like to watch car reviews which I can afford 🤔. I love this one ☝️

[@archievthapa3593]

I love this truck and soon enough hope to own it

[@ruardswanepoel9227]

Bakkieeeee🇿🇦 Again.. 😂. Love your reviews!

[@CarExpertAus]

😁

[@mikesmale1853]

I loved the front seats too!

[@ArkiTalo]

Great Review!

[@CarExpertAus]

Thank you!

[@kokoshoko]

You got my like and subscribe, very well explained....

[@andymclaren7281]

Ordered. Can't wait and sold my 2015 dmax for a very good price so win/win!!

[@TrottDaddae]

Best review💯 Could you do Landcruiser 79 series later if you can. Thanks

[@CarExpertAus]

We will try and get our hands on one 😁

[@kingwillbisthebest]

Outstanding review mate. Definitely my next ute. $58k for the top spec at the moment. Absolute steal. Hate those wheels but a quick upgrade to steelies with off road tyers and its perfect

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks! Yes some people aren’t a fan of the wheels but they will drop an accessory set soon if you want to stay with the ‘official’ wheels.

[@liamwindsor5854]

The wheels grew on me, certain colour bodies make them look better. Mine looks mint in white

[@joshuageorge9087]

Mann love 😍 ur videos broo Keep it up bro🥰

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks mate!

[@aidanmunnelly769]

Would love to see it towing. Good review.

[@caderaojohncyrus1378]

Yes! Love it

[@simoncouch1523]

Another great review

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks mate!

[@antel868]

Love the grey

[@Tony-qk1se]

Good review.

[@vitaleramasterclass]

Looks amazing

[@isuzuaxiom9576]

I am an original owner of 2 Isuzus. Purchased in 2002 and 2005. Pleasantly come back to the USA so I can buy a new Isuzu. “ISUZU FOREVER”

[@idailytube8679]

Hope they bring them back to the states

[@tshewangrinzin5848]

Wow one of my dream car ..

[@philippjahn9100]

I love it I think I'm going to look at one

[@skjtamilan1171]

I love your review from India🇮🇳 . I already got D-MAX in India

[@fhclappen8595]

Realy nice review.I would like to see a bit more detail on the back seat arrangement as far as storage under and behind is concerned.There isn't many places to hide tools and valuables in a ute.If you would, please include this in your reviews.

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks! We did have a section that went through under seat storage, which other details were you interested in?

[@aphiwehlophe8928]

Fanstic review as always.👌

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks!

[@Staff7A]

I like it! Looking forward to the new Mazda BT-50

[@CarExpertAus]

Us too!

[@Mochabear85]

Paul: I reckon this is the most anticipated ute, pick up truck, bakkie whatever you want to call it launch of this year Me: could say the same thing about this review lol. Been waiting for this. Top review. Actually really keen on this ute, will test an X-terrain back to back with a Wildtrak. For me the Ranger is the benchmark in refinement, comfort, driveability and tech.

[@CarExpertAus]

Ha ha. Thanks mate. Keep us posted on what you buy!

[@Naessey]

That’s what I thought. But felt the Isuzu more relaxed and love its a 3.0l. Intend to keep for a while so longevity very important.

[@eisbar7354]

Jamel Terk could I say the new benchmark has been raised with the new Dmax? Dollar for dollar I think the Ranger has a bit of catching up to do.

[@Naessey]

Eisbär The Ranger is an amazing car, no doubt. Whether new Hilux, Dmax or Ranger, you can’t go wrong. What’s surprising is that 12 months ago, DMax wasn’t in that group. The 10sp ranger is a quick beast and my preferred. I was awaiting the new DMax to test drive before buying the Ranger to make sure it was the right choice. Put deposit down last week. On the DMax.

[@Mochabear85]

@@eisbar7354 Can't argue with that. Had an MY16 Wildtrak and was a great ute. Downgraded (pun intended) to a MY18 Triton and 200% miss the refinement and wizardry that comes with the Ranger. Have driven other newer utes since and i feel the Ranger is ahead of the rest (except for price) But im sure my thoughts will change when i get a chance to drive a new D-max.

[@kleoemuno4961]

This is a must buy for me.

[@andrewporter3014]

I'm a massive fan of the D max and the 3Lt, hope the donk does its forbears justice. Seriously looking at one. Great review BTW...no bull sh7T

[@gianttrance5180]

The styling is great. The " double" grille is tough

[@dineojennifer8233]

In South Africa, this Isuzu may not dethrone King Hilux and its second in command, Deputy Ranger, but it should run a very close third. On looks alone, it has the facelifted Hilux beaten. The Ranger is on its way out, and must pray that the new one looks better than the outgoing one, if it is to keep its place. I thought the GWM P series' interior was sexy. This Isuzu matches it, and then some.

[@sandrewadventures]

Love the design!

[@domc9026]

This design is inspired by Platypus, a semi-aquatic animal and it looks super fantastic! This is going to sell like crazy!

[@Raven_za]

Bakkie! Haha, glad to see the afrikaans is setting in over there, you earned yourself a sub. Cheers from South Africa!

[@19962264]

Have ordered mine! 👌🏼 Thankyou for the review been waiting a few weeks for this! Keep it up! 👍🏼

[@scotty311]

what's the waiting time once ordered?

[@19962264]

Scott Kelly I was very luck and ordered the one that has been allocated for the area I live in so my pickup date is the 30th of October but I heard people that went in after me won’t see one till December/January

[@CarExpertAus]

Congrats on the purchase! You’ll love it 😁

[@shockwave2477]

@@19962264 How is it?

[@19962264]

@@shockwave2477 still waiting..

[@rossadixon]

I really want one of these to tow a caravan, but waiting for reviews on towing. I would also want to remove the wings and sliding thing and put on a canopy. Do you think that would be a fairly easy option?

[@allanmunsami1767]

just got one for my birthday. same as the above wow