Isuzu D-MAX LS-U+ 2023 review

07/07/2023 admin Motoring Minute Episodes 0

D-MAX LS-U+ – This week I’m driving a favourite of mine the Isuzu D-Max Ute. The version I have is the LSU+. This is next to the top spec X-Terrain and has many of the same features, just less visual bling, and accessories.

The LS-U+ comes with the robust and reliable 3.0L 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine with 140kW of power and a well-used 450Nm of torque from as low as 1600rpm. There is some 350Nm available from as low as 1200rpm.

This is matched to the 6 Sp automatic transmission.

Off road credentials come from the 4WD Terrain command subsystem that allows switching between 2wd and 4wd at speed up to 100kmh. 800MM of wading depth and standard rear diff locks.

Little features like leather highlighted and heated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity and a full suite of safety features all make the D-Max appealing.

The tub comes lined with a heavy-duty plastic insert and a roll top cover. A clever and appreciated addition this year is the gas Tailgate assist for opening and closing. I have mixed feelings about the roll top cover. Its safe and convenient but does limit load capacity.

I put the D-Max to good use carting a few loads of mulch and garden sleepers for my yard.

Its an ideal all round vehicle. Enough comfort and safety features to keep owners happy. Excellent towing and 4WD capability and frugal with fuel as well.

The Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ is priced from $63,500 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

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What is good?

4WD and towing ability
Ride and handling
Class leading safety features

What is not so good?

Not a fan of the roller top
Windscreen washers in wiper blades
Would love 150kW/500Nm

More thoughts about the Isuzu D-Max LS-U+

Its comfortable and practical
You jump in it and drive and it feels like home
Packed with safety features
Lots of clever ideas like
- bag hooks on the rear of the front seats
- slide out cup holders on front dash
- dash top storage bin
- wireless Apple CarPlay
- front seat heaters
- Configurable MFD between dials on the drivers instruments
Not a fan of the windscreen washers in the wiper arms
Also not a fan of the roll top on the tub. Its takes up space and has to be opened fully to close it again. Not the best when its raining.
Like a lot of tubs, reaching the front middle section is difficult, especially with the roll top.

Some more Isuzu D-Max articles

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Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular. There are a few on the market and everyone is aiming upmarket.

Buyers could look at Ford Ranger Sport, Toyota HiLux Rogue, Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 Thunder. SsangYong Musso Ultimate, Mitsubishi Triton GSR.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ final thoughts

I’ve said it many times. The D-Max is a robust, reliable and practical 4WD Ute.

The LS-U+ is perhaps the best value version. It has a few extra features for comfort without the bling of the X-Terrain. It would pay to check the drive away deals on the X-Terrain though

The D-Max will tow 3500kg with ease, go anywhere you will sensibly want to go off road and do it in comfort. All D-Max vehicles come with the tow assembly installed. All you have to do is add the hitch tongue you want.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ is a favourite Ute of mine.

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Isuzu D-MAX LS-U+ 2023 review