We drive the 2023 Isuzu D-MAX LS-U+ 4wd Ute

Isuzu D-Max road test review

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.

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + 2The 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

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + towing hitch

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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

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + front qtr

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.

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + profile

Some more Isuzu D-Max articles

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + 1

Also look at:

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

Buyers could look at Ford Ranger SportToyota HiLux RogueNissan Navara PRO 4X WarriorMazda BT-50 Thunder. SsangYong Musso UltimateMitsubishi Triton GSR.

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + front

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.

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + engine

Isuzu

Model

D-MAX LS-U+ 

Model Price$63,500 MLP*
Engine3.0L 4 Cyl Turbo Diesel Euro 5
Drivetrain6 Sp Sports AT Dual range 4WD
Power140kW @ 3,600rpm
Torque450Nm @ 1600-2600rpm
SafetyFive-star ANCAP (tested Sept 2022)
0-100kmh / Top SpeedTBA
CO2 Emissions207 g/km
Economy ADR8.0L/100km / 76L capacity
Economy on test9.0L/100k
Max Range1101km
Servicing12Mth / 15,000km 7 Yrs. Capped Price
Warranty6yr/ 150,000 km
Roadside Assist7Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + Interior 4 pic

Overall Rating    LS-U+

87/100

Behind the Wheel8
Comfort9
Equipment9
Performance8
Ride and Handling9
Practicality8
Fit for Purpose8
AWD/Towing Capability*10 (4WD 5/5 Towing 5/5)
Technology/connectivity9
Value for Money9

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + tub full of mulch

Dimensions

 Isuzu D-Max LS-U+
Overall Length5280mm
Wheelbase3125mm
Width1880mm
Height1810mm
Wheels18×7.5 Alloy
Tyres265/60 R18
Max ground clearanceUp to 240mm
Wading Depth800mm
Approach30.5 degrees
Rampover23.8 degrees
Departure angle19 degrees
Turning Circle KTK12.5m
Tub Length1570mm
Tub width arches1122mm
Tub width1530mm
Tub Depth475mm
Kerb Weight2115kg
Payload (kg)985kg
GVM (kg)3100kg
GCM6000kg
Towing Capacity3500kg
Tow Ball rating350kg

2023 Isuzu D Max LS U + rear qtr

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