Isuzu D-Max line-up grows for 2023

ISUZU Ute Australia has updated the D-Max ute range for the 2023 model year in what the brand is calling its most significant update since the latest-generation launched in late 2020, with initial deliveries to begin in December.

Despite inflation affecting seemingly everything, variant-for-variant pricing remains the same as the MY22 D-Max line-up, starting from an introductory $31,990 drive-away for the SX Single Cab Chassis 4x2 with manual gearbox and 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine (usual price is $32,200 before on-road costs).

Big news from the announcement comes in the shape of three new variants among the 27-strong D-Max line-up, most notably the SX Crew Cab 4x4 featuring the smaller 1.9-litre turbo-diesel formerly only available in only 4x2 SX variants. 

Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) has also launched a new SX Crew Cab Chassis 4x2 and SX Crew Cab 4x2 ute, both with the efficient 1.9-litre donk.

After debuting the smaller motor earlier this year, already widely used in other regions, it has proven a popular option for its frugal fuel use and ample grunt (110kW/350Nm).

The other engine on offer is still the 3.0-litre 4JJ3, offering up 140kW/450Nm through either a six-speed manual or six-speed auto.

Engineers at Isuzu Ute decided to turn the blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems off automatically when towing – across the entire D-Max range – given customers would deactivate them manually when hitched up to a trailer.

Clearly the development budget did not extend to a Ford Ranger style towing mode with programmable trailer sizes for these driver assist features.

A burlier exterior aesthetic has been applied to the MY23 D-Max range, with a new two-tone grille and dark grey metallic trim on various other exterior details like the LED rear combination lights.

Following customer feedback, Isuzu Ute also introduced new wheels for the MY23 line-up, ranging from light grey 17-inch alloys on the LS-M to 18-inch machined alloys on higher-spec models.

Like its MU-X stablemate, the new D-Max receives a new tyre pressure monitoring system for LS-U, LS-U+ and X-Terrain variants. 

An interesting tech enhancement is a new tailgate assist feature on all models; a gas-strut system that helps lift and lower the tailgate following customer feedback that it was “heavy”. 

Inside the refreshed D-Max is an updated selection of seat upholstery trim across LS-M, LS-U, LS-U+ and X-Terrain variants, while lower grades receive an additional 2.1A USB port in the second row. 

IUA reports that close to 50,000 new-generation D-Max utes have been sold since the range launched in late 2020, momentum the revised model is hoped to to accelerate.

“This is the most significant update to the Isuzu D-Max range since debut – with each model set to receive a bolder design aesthetic, new features, and three new models added – giving customers more choice,” said IUA managing director Hiroyasu Sato.

“In a market where some brands have removed features to meet delivery timeframes, we’ve  listened to the feedback from customers and the media and have introduced new features to keep the Isuzu D-Max towards the top of the segment; features that appeal to the modern ute driver, and the towing and touring adventurer.”

Metallic paint incurs a $650 premium over the Mineral White standard colour, with eight options including the new Galaxy Blue Mica hue and some exclusive to high-spec models.

Full 2023 D-Max specifications will be released in the coming months. 

2023 Isuzu D-Max 4x2 pricing*:

2023 Isuzu D-Max 4x4 pricing*:

 *excludes on-road costs

**special drive-away offer (usual price $32,200 + ORC)

*** special drive-away offer (usual price $67,500 + ORC)