2018 Isuzu D-Max Review
The Isuzu D-Max is a 4x4 pickup that continues to dominate the Kenyan market thanks to its seamless blend of durability and practicality. It boasts a robust and rugged appearance that gives it a commanding look on the road. Its functional interior is ergonomically arranged as the large windows allow natural light to flood the cabin. Under the hood is a diesel engine that churns out impressive figures of torque making it a capable off-roader with an excellent towing capacity. Despite its strengths, it competes with the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi Triton, Chevrolet Colorado, Volkswagen Amarok, and Mazda BT-50.
You can get more about this Isuzu D-max
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Detailed Review
The Isuzu D-Max made its debut in 2002 and it was designated as the RA/RC whose production continued up to 2010. The second generation of the D-Max codenamed RT commenced its production in 2011 and continued until 2018. The Isuzu D-Max is currently in its third generation designated as RG. The 2018 Isuzu D-Max comes with three engine options. A 3.0 L Diesel, 2.5 L Diesel, and a 1.9 L Diesel linked to a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
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2018 Isuzu D-Max Grades
- Isuzu D-Max LS- This grade comes with 16-inch steel wheels, fabric seats, manual air-conditioning, a CD player, USB/AUX ports, halogen headlights, power windows, power mirrors, and multiple airbags.
- Isuzu D-max LS-U- This grade features 17-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, a 12-volt power outlet, a reverse camera, automatic climate control, cruise control, and electronic brakeforce distribution.
- Isuzu D-Max LS-T- This grade boasts 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, satellite navigation, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, LED headlights, Keyless entry & start, brake assist, hill start assist, and hill descent control.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max has a very functional interior layout that largely emphasizes practicality. The dashboard is furnished in plastic and it is also ergonomically arranged for ease of use and access. The cockpit is driver-centric and an air conditioner is available to maintain room temperature in the cabin to match the occupant’s feel and like. The first row has plenty of legroom and headroom. The second boasts ample headroom. However, taller passengers might find the second-row crampy owing to its limited knee room.
Cabin Storage
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max incorporates multiple storage compartments that are used to either keep or hold the gears of its occupants for ease of access and reach. The first row has a glove box, door panel storage, a center console, and two cupholders. The second row includes door pockets, two cupholders, and jacket pockets.
Boot Space
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max double cab offers 1,485 mm (length) 1,530 mm (width) and 465 mm (depth). The single cab has 2,305 mm (length) 1,530 mm (width) and 465 mm (depth).
Exterior
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max has a bold and rugged exterior design that blends with modern aesthetics lending it an upscale look. The front end is distinguished by a chrome-accented grille that lends it an imposing look. Flanking the grille are LED headlights that add a touch of modernity. The front bumper is robust showcasing its off-road capability while simultaneously emphasizing the ruggedness of this pickup.
The side profile features muscular wheel arches housing 17/18 inch alloy wheels that not only have excellent grip on the road but also improve the overall aesthetics of the vehicle. Side steps are incorporated to allow passengers to easily embark or disembark from the vehicle.
The rear encompasses tail lights and turn signals. The large tailgate is manually operated to allow loading and off-loading of cargo. A tow bar is attached to the rear bumper in some models to facilitate the towing of caravans or trailers.
2018 Isuzu D-Max Safety Features
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max has anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, vehicle stability control, multiple airbags, brake assist, traction control, hill descent control, hill start assist, a lane departure warning, a blind spot monitor, and child seat anchors.
2018 Isuzu D-Max Fuel Consumption
2018 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 L Petrol engine consumption- 12.6 km/l on average
2018 Isuzu D-Max 2.5 L Petrol engine consumption- 12.1 km/l on average
2018 Isuzu D-Max 1.9 L Petrol engine consumption- 11.5 km/l on average
2018 Isuzu D-Max Acceleration
2018 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 L Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.5 secs
2018 Isuzu D-Max 2.5 L Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.9 secs
2018 Isuzu D-Max 1.9 L Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.6 secs
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max Fuel Tank Capacity: 76 liters
Ground Clearance: The 2018 Isuzu D-Max has a ground clearance of 9.0 inches
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires an Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Isuzu Kenya (or GM East Africa) has put in place an extensive network of spare part dealers across the country. In most major towns, you expect to get a spare part dealer stocked with at least service parts. Special parts can be bought directly from GM or any other dealer they may refer you to.
Isuzu D-Max service parts are well-priced and comparable in price to the Toyota Hilux if not cheaper. For special parts such as sensors and body parts, the price is slightly high but affordable.
Stability And Handling
The Isuzu D-Max is renowned for its stability and handling. The 2018 model is not an exception. The driver has excellent visibility and command of the surrounding traffic. The suspension system absorbs road imperfections ensuring its occupants enjoy a jarring-free ride. The leaf spring suspension at the rear can carry loads of cargo making the D-Max one of the best if not the best freight hauler.
This pickup sits on a robust ladder-frame chassis that enhances its stability and handling. It comes standard with a four-wheel drive system (4WD) that allows the driver to interchange gears from low to high matching the terrain being cruised on. Due to its high ground clearance, it is recommended to slow down when approaching tight road bends to minimize body rolls. Other features incorporated in this car to improve its stability and handling include traction control, electronic stability control, brake assist, hill descent control, and hill start assist.
Reliability
Isuzu is a renowned automobile manufacturer whose longevity in the industry has contributed to its long-standing reputable history. The D-Max is a product of such engineering prowess. The powertrains under the hood have been used by its predecessors hence it is anticipated not to experience any problems owing to the tweaks and improvements done on them. However, like any other vehicle, this pickup is not immune to problems. Transmission issues are the most commonly reported problems in this car. Regular service and maintenance are required to keep this car in optimal condition. Refer to the Isuzu D-Max buyer’s guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge you to always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Resale Value: Good
Isuzu D-Max Competitors: Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi Triton, Chevrolet Colorado, Volkswagen Amarok, and Mazda BT-50.
What we like about the 2018 Isuzu D-Max
- Off-road capability
- Towing capacity
- Fuel efficiency
- Robust build quality
What we don’t
- Noise levels
Conclusion
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max makes a perfect choice for a daily driver whether you are residing in the metropolis or in rural areas. Its rugged exterior design seamlessly blends with modern aesthetics as the inside is quite practical and functional. The 2018 D-Max comes with a 4WD system that makes it conquer off-road terrains effortlessly. The driver assist systems work in harmony ensuring its occupants enjoy a safe and secure ride. The diesel engine not only produces powerful figures of torque but also boasts a stellar fuel economy.
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To import the 2018 Isuzu D-Max, send your request to EMAIL i[email protected] OR you can CONTACT +254 722 469 360
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You can get more about this Isuzu D-max
- Check our repository of car owner's manual: purchase owner's manual
