A new version of the tough and dependable Isuzu D-Max pick-up is upon us, writes William Scholes.
It's had a restyle, gains a smarter interior and comes with enough safety kit that crash safety watchdogs Euro NCap have awarded it a top five-star rating.
Put together, it should mean the D-Max is as capable as before but far more refined and car-like to operate and to live with.
There's new suspension front and rear suspension to deliver a smoother ride. Along with improved road and noise soundproofing, it ought to make the D-Max quieter than before.
There's also a new speed-sensitive electronic power steering system which, Isuzu says, improves manoeuvrability and accuracy.
The transmission has been beefed up further, with tweaks such as a faster engaging shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system and a standard rear diff-lock on some models.
The durable ladder chassis has been strengthened thanks to larger rails and an extra panel has been added to provide more extensive underbody protection.
Safety gadgetry fitted to every model includes autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, an intelligent speed limiter and lane departure warning and prevention.
The double-cab versions get a rear radar, making it the only pick-up in the UK market to be so equipped as standard, and three additional safety features - rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitor and, in a pick-up segment first, emergency lane keeping.
The diesel engine delivers 162bhp and 266lb ft of torque and is paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.
It can tow up to 3.5 tonnes and carry a payload of more than a tonne. In addition to the popular four-wheel-drive models, a rear-wheel-drive version is also offered. There are three different cab styles - single, extended and double - and four trim levels.
They all come with a 125,000-mile/five-year warranty and five years' UK and European roadside assistance. Prices start at £20,999, ex VAT.
