Cover Feature

BOLDY GO

The MY24 D-MAX turns up the dials— and adds dials—and mainstreams a cool, blacked edition. But is it fun?

“Movin’ right along! Footloose and fancy-freeGetting there is half the fun Come share it with me.”

So sang Kermit the Frog and Fozzie Bear in the original Muppet Movie, back in 1979, when it was taken for granted that life was more about the journey than the destination. But that was an earlier age, when ‘getting there’ was different: less traffic, no red-light cameras, fewer influencers weaving across the road because they’re filming complicated in-car TikToks. 

Was it more fun? It was certainly less safe. For example, if The Muppet Movie was historically accurate, frogs were allowed to drive. But no matter how far we’ve moved on, the fundamental yearning remains: everyone wants to be able to enjoy their time behind the wheel. 

Whether you’re lapping Australia, tackling rugged bush tracks, or simply completing your daily routine, life’s just better when you can go your own way, surrounded by creature comforts and great tech.

Kermit and Fozzie managed to enjoy their journey of discovery behind the wheel of a clapped-out 1951 Studebaker. Imagine if they’d been driving a D-MAX. 

Or better still: a newly minted 2024 D-MAX X-RIDER. Let’s climb aboard Isuzu’s iconic ute has long established itself as one of the country’s most popular vehicles. Its on- and off-road credentials have been repeatedly bolstered since it arrived Down Under bearing Isuzu’s own badge for the first time in 2008.

Its success has been built on capability, dependability and its ability to help unlock the best of the Australian lifestyle. Arriving as a utilitarian workhorse 16 years ago, the D-MAX is now available in no fewer than 25 variants, from the entry-level 1.9-litre manual D-MAX SX Single Cab Chassis 4x2, to the tech-heavy hero 3.0-litre D-MAX X-TERRAIN 4x4. In 2023, that combo made the D-MAX Australia’s third best-selling car.

For this update, though, that result makes its ‘Go Your Own Way’ tagline a promise as well as a potential burden. Not just something it has to live up to, but to push forward.

With the pressure on, can the Isuzu keep moving right along? One thing is certain: in a D-MAX, finding out is half the fun.

INTRIGUE AT FIRST GLANCE

The MY24 D-MAX finds the mother company intent on upping the ante.

This might be a facelifted edition, rather than an entirely clean-sheet model, but even so, its new tricks are considerable— and considered. Isuzu UTE Australia (IUA) is keenly aware of its importance.

“This update marks the most comprehensive update to the D-MAX since its local debut,” says IUA Managing Director Junta Matsui.

Most obvious is its significantly refreshed design, both outside and in. New exterior details include the latest evolution of Isuzu’s signature horizontal bar grille, a higher, prouder, squarer bonnet with creased full-width detailing and eye-catching redesigned headlights.

Front and back are resolved with a robust continuous shoulder line, sleekly channelling aerodynamic flow and drawing the eye along the bodywork at the same time. The overall impression is of refined muscularity, with just a hint of aggression.

Then there are the extra updates to the halo models—including a new edition. The debuting X-RIDER and retailored X-TERRAIN both feature even bolder exterior flourishes: dark grey underbody spoilers, darkened accents and a menacing front bar design.

It’s a commanding and convincing package, offering unmistakable charisma while minimising fuss.

THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

Slip behind the wheel and even a cursory assessment of the D-MAX’s updated cabin reveals changes.

Most prominent, perhaps, is the availability of a new 9.0-inch infotainment screen, alongside an evolution of interior design and materials that demonstrates undeniable flair—and intriguing details. (For example, the new upholstery trim and in-cabin design elements are influenced by the Japanese paperfolding art of Miura Origami, an example of sophisticated influences otherwise more familiar to the full-size executive class.)

That 9.0-inch infotainment display arrives on LS-U, LS-U+ and X-TERRAIN models, with new 8.0-inch touchscreens a feature on SX, LS-M and X-RIDER models.

With feedback from both customers and media directing their hand—the same input that influenced almost every aspect of the D-MAX’s recalibration Isuzu across the board—Isuzu has installed a completely new infotainment system.

There’s USB-C connectivity, voice recognition, DAB+ digital radio, and wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the inclinometer, while Terrain Command 4x4 drive modes have been integrated into the system—affording the driver the ability to view essential systems at a simple tap and swipe of the screen.

Addressing customer requests, old-school manual tuning and volume dials have been added. Changing settings on the fly, or angled on a 4WD slope, is now simpler.

“Not only does the 2024 D-MAX feature specifications bespoke to the Australian market,” says Matsui-san, “but the design changes have also been influenced by the very feedback we’ve received from the media and customers over the past three years.”

RULE THE ROAD … AND THE OFF-ROAD

Technical bells and whistles are wonderful —and the D-MAX ticks those boxes and more—but Australian utes are first of all judged on gutsiness, reliability and functionality.

This has long been one of the D-MAX’s strong suits. CarsGuide reviewer Graham Smith glowingly described that debut 2008 D-MAX as capable of tackling the most challenging off-road trails, “its gutsy turbo-diesel happy to slug it out on steep climbs and rough tracks”.

Isuzu has been as comfortable off-road as Jim Henson’s hand in Kermit’s head ever since, and just as grippy. Now it’s even better, with its capability extended again.

With imposing ground clearance of up to 240mm, 800mm wading depth, and X-TERRAIN approach, departure and ramp-over angles of 30.5°, 19.0° and 23.8° respectively, it’s eager to explore. Add an updated Rough Terrain Mode (RTM), selectable dual-range 4WD and rear differential lock, and the D-MAX maximises torque-transfer and driveability across technical, slippery and uneven conditions.

Two engines are offered—a 110kW/ 350Nm 1.9-litre turbo-diesel (RZ4E-TC) or 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel (4JJ3-TCX)—paired with either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission with 4x2 or 4x4. Respective braked towing ranges from 2,800kg to 3,500kg, depending on the powertrain, maintaining the D-MAX’s hauler status.

Early news from Japan described this D-MAX as IUA’s most capable vehicle to date. For Australian conditions, local input has elevated that easy proficiency even further.

ACHIEVEMENT UNLOCKED

What would Kermit and Fozzie have thought of the 2024 D-MAX?

Well, for one, there’d have been less breaking down. One of the old movie’s plot devices is that their clunker is so unreliable. ‘Getting there’ would have been faster and more fun (they could have taken an off-road detour or two), although halving the film’s run time might have affected the box office.

Driving is much better today. And no car has changed more for the better than the ute. Utes can now be plush family haulers, or workhorses, or both.

In fiction, as in real life, in Australia or interstellar, the fun factor on any journey of discovery will always depend on two things: the group’s vehicle and the group vibe.

Burke and Wills had smelly camels and squabbling men, and died.

Kermit and Fozzie drove an old banger, but they had each other.

Star Trek had a cool spaceship and a crew of close mates. They’re still at it.

Choosing your vehicle wisely has never been easier. High-tech, comfortable, safe and capable, the new D-MAX has that covered. Meaning you’re halfway to fun on any journey—even if your companions are muppets.