2023 Isuzu D-Max off-road review

The Isuzu D-Max is a strong seller with a strong following. How does it stack up in the hands of an off-roader?

Australia's third top-selling dual-cab ute, the Isuzu D-Max, is tested here in its flagship X-Terrain specification level.

It's no longer the newest kid on the block, so has the Isuzu MU-X's appeal diminished with the arrival of a new-generation arch-rival?

The 2023 Isuzu D-Max brings some minor upgrades to a segment staple, which we test here in LS-U+ specification level.

Isuzu's new 1.9-litre D-Max offers cab-chassis buyers a more affordable option, with lower running costs and a lower price.

There wasn't much wrong with the D-Max, but that hasn't stopped Isuzu from refining the formula for 2022.

A few minor tweaks for 2022 keep the market's number-three dual-cab ute fresh. Let's revisit the D-Max in flagship X-Terrain guise.

The mid-spec MU-X could well be the sweet spot in the range, offering a refined and well-featured package that doesn't break the bank.

The Isuzu D-Max is priced right up against the top-selling Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, but it justifies the ask.

No longer is it just a rugged seven-seater family SUV that can go virtually anywhere. The new Isuzu MU-X now does it with the latest safety and infotainment technology while also upgrading its creature comforts and cabin luxuries to a new level.

The second-generation Isuzu MU-X is more capable and contemporary, and stacks up despite price increases.

The Isuzu D-Max makes sense at the top end of the range, and it makes sense in base SX guise. Sure, you miss some of the tinsel, but there's no getting away from the fact this is a very good ute.

If you've just bought a new dual-cab ute or an SUV and there are controls for the four-wheel drive system, would you know what to do with them? We run through the basics of 2H, 4H, 4L, hill descent control and differential locks.

It's been a while between drinks for Isuzu, but there's finally an all-new D-Max. Is it enough of a change to take on the segment leaders?

The all-new Isuzu D-Max has a classier cabin and a list of safety features more than twice as long as before. That should put it on your shortlist if you're buying a new ute.

The MU-X is a solid performer, taking the reasonable platform shared with the Holden Trailblazer and teaming it with a reliable engine and handsome looks.