Isuzu D-Max: Built for Rough Terrain

The all-new Isuzu D-Max, brings a sharper, more aggressive design and plenty of upgrades that make it a serious contender in the local pick-up truck market.

From the outside, the D-Max immediately stands out. Its bold front grille flows seamlessly into the sleek LED headlights, giving the pick-up a commanding presence. The matte black 18-inch alloy wheels, accented with striking red details, further enhance the rugged look. Side steps add both function and style, making access to the cabin simple and practical. Altogether, the D-Max is a modern, tough, and good-looking pick-up that holds its own against competitors in Trinidad & Tobago.

Inside, the Isuzu D-Max continues to impress. The cabin is well laid out, user-friendly, and practical. Soft-touch materials on the dashboard and a tasteful two-tone finish lift the overall feel, while ample storage spaces throughout make it easy to keep essentials close at hand.

At the center of it all sits a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, supported by tactile buttons for the dual-zone climate control. Off-road enthusiasts will also appreciate the built-in display that shows real-time vehicle angles, a useful feature when tackling rougher terrain.

Rear passengers aren’t left behind either. During my time in the back seat, I found headroom and legroom more than sufficient, with a comfortable upright seating position that avoids the cramped, squatting feel common in other pick-ups. Added storage slots beneath the rear seats are a clever touch for securing smaller items out of the way.

Behind the wheel, the D-Max delivers a confident driving experience. The leather seats are supportive and make it easy to settle into a commanding driving position with excellent visibility. A semi-digital gauge cluster up front is bright, sharp, and easy to read.

Performance comes from a 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 188 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is smooth, responsive, and with minimal lag. The suspension is well-calibrated for our roads here in Trinidad & Tobago, stable and planted while maintaining a soft, composed ride for passengers in both the front and back.

As a true 4x4, the Isuzu D-Max is equipped with selectable drive modes (2H, 4H, and 4L), along with a rear differential lock. Tackling steep roads was no issue thanks to Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. For daily use, reverse cameras and parking sensors make maneuvering in tight spaces a straightforward task.

Here’s what the D-Max brings to the table:

• 240 mm ground clearance

• 30.5° approach angle

• 19° departure angle

• 800 mm wading depth

• Bed dimensions: 1570 mm length, 1530 mm width, and 1122 mm between the wheel arches

The Isuzu D-Max has a reputation in Trinidad & Tobago of being a rugged, dependable pick-up truck, and the latest D-Max stays true to that. What sets this model apart is how it blends that toughness with modern features, improved comfort, and user-friendly tech.

With its balance of durability and everyday usability, the new Isuzu D-Max is more than ready to take on everything.