2019 Isuzu D-Max 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 until 2018. The Isuzu D-Max is currently in its third generation designated as RG. The 2019 Isuzu D-Max comes with two engine options. A 3.0 L Diesel and a 1.9 L Diesel linked to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

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2019 Isuzu D-Max Grades

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Isuzu D-Max X-Rider- This grade is fitted with a lane departure warning, a forward collision warning, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a rear-view camera, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, LED headlights, USB/AUX ports, and Bluetooth connectivity.
5. Isuzu D-Max Z Prestige- This grade comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a chrome-accented grille, LED headlights & daytime running lights, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, satellite navigation, power mirrors, and a rear privacy glass.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2019 Isuzu D-Max has a somewhat spacious and practical layout. Lower grades feature hard-wearing plastics that emphasizes its durability as higher grades encompass soft touches and leather upholstery that elevate their premium feel. The D-Max caters to the entertainment needs of its occupants. It features a touchscreen infotainment system embedded with Apple Car Play & Android Auto. With a seating arrangement for five, the first row has plenty of legroom and headroom. The second boasts ample headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2019 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 2019 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 2019 Isuzu D-Max has undergone subtle refinements on the outside to make it more appealing. It still retains its rugged and muscular appearance which largely emphasizes functionality. A chrome-accented grille adorned with the Isuzu badging lends it an imposing look as LED headlights and daytime running lights add a contemporary flare.

The side profile is somewhat conservative but the muscular wheel arches give it an imposing appearance. Side steps are incorporated to allow passengers to easily embark or disembark from the vehicle. Higher grades come standard with roof rails offering additional cargo room.

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. Its bed depending on the cab can haul tons of cargo simultaneously.

2019 Isuzu D-Max Safety Features

The 2019 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.

2019 Isuzu D-Max Fuel Consumption

2019 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 L Petrol engine consumption- 12.3 km/l on average

2019 Isuzu D-Max 1.9 L Petrol engine consumption- 11.2 km/l on average

2019 Isuzu D-Max Acceleration

2019 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 L Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.3 secs

2019 Isuzu D-Max 1.9 L Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.2 secs

The 2019 Isuzu D-Max Fuel Tank Capacity: 76 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2019 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 2019 Isuzu D-Max sits on a ladder-frame chassis that enhances its stability and handling. The steering wheel is light, precise, and responsive giving the driver full control of the vehicle. The coil spring at the front and leaf springs at the rear absorb road imperfections ensuring its occupants enjoy a jarring-free ride. 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.

The engine works in tandem with the transmission system delivering a smooth start and decent acceleration. The braking system is very robust and boasts a high stopping power that can bring this pickup to a complete stop in a matter of seconds. 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 2019 Isuzu D-Max

• Off-road capability
• Towing capacity
• Fuel efficiency
• Robust build quality

What we don’t

• Noise levels

Conclusion

The Isuzu D-Max reliability is highly ranked thanks to its longevity in the automobile industry which has allowed room for modifications, tweaks, and improvements making it an excellent investment with a good resale value. Whether used in urban streets or rural areas, the D-Max stands out owing to its rugged exterior design that seamlessly blends with modern aesthetics. The workhorse rate of this pickup when it comes to off-roading and towing is unmatched making it among the most revered trucks.

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To import the 2019 Isuzu D-Max, send your request to EMAIL info@topcar.co.ke OR you can CONTACT +254 722 469 360