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

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

TO LISTEN TO ISUZU D-MAX LS-U+ RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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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+

Some more Isuzu D-Max articles

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.

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.

Isuzu

Model

D-MAX LS-U+ 

Model Price $63,500 MLP*
Engine 3.0L 4 Cyl Turbo Diesel Euro 5
Drivetrain 6 Sp Sports AT Dual range 4WD
Power 140kW @ 3,600rpm
Torque 450Nm @ 1600-2600rpm
Safety Five-star ANCAP (tested Sept 2022)
0-100kmh / Top Speed TBA
CO2 Emissions 207 g/km
Economy ADR 8.0L/100km / 76L capacity
Economy on test 9.0L/100k
Max Range 1101km
Servicing 12Mth / 15,000km 7 Yrs. Capped Price
Warranty 6yr/ 150,000 km
Roadside Assist 7Yr. 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)

Overall Rating    LS-U+

87/100

Behind the Wheel 8
Comfort 9
Equipment 9
Performance 8
Ride and Handling 9
Practicality 8
Fit for Purpose 8
AWD/Towing Capability* 10 (4WD 5/5 Towing 5/5)
Technology/connectivity 9
Value for Money 9

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

Dimensions

 Isuzu D-Max LS-U+
Overall Length 5280mm
Wheelbase 3125mm
Width 1880mm
Height 1810mm
Wheels 18×7.5 Alloy
Tyres 265/60 R18
Max ground clearance Up to 240mm
Wading Depth 800mm
Approach 30.5 degrees
Rampover 23.8 degrees
Departure angle 19 degrees
Turning Circle KTK 12.5m
Tub Length 1570mm
Tub width arches 1122mm
Tub width 1530mm
Tub Depth 475mm
Kerb Weight 2115kg
Payload (kg) 985kg
GVM (kg) 3100kg
GCM 6000kg
Towing Capacity 3500kg
Tow Ball rating 350kg

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