New 2022 model Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain boasts vital new additions

Some buyers are putting deposits on multiple vehicles and taking the first one that arrives. This is worth the wait and latest upgrades to the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain make one of the best utes in the business even better.

Underdogs have always been popular with Australians.

Those willing to have a go and punch above their weight have always found a way into our hearts. While that’s true of the sporting arena, it’s not applicable when it comes to buying a car.

Before we buy something on four wheels, brands need to forge a strong reputation for value, longevity and ability.

Isuzu Ute has just two models in the market, but last month was in the top 10 selling brands.

Paving the way to that result was the D-Max ute. It’s consistently been among the most popular vehicles and offers arguably the best value dual-cab around – which was recently upgraded for 2022.

The wait for 2022 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain variants is about six months.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

KEL: From the outside this looks similar to the D-Max we drove last year.

GRANT: All the changes come under the skin and within the interior, addressing some of the shortcomings and taking customer feedback on board for what they call a ‘running change’.

KEL: This X-Terrain model looks awesome and tough. During our previous test I remember the long road trip being comfortable and the roller tonneau cover enabled us to safely leave our luggage in the back. How much is it now?

GRANT: Price rises across the industry have been common given the current challenges. The X-Terrain remains top-shelf in a revised range at $64,990 drive-away.

KEL: Is that expensive in comparison to rivals?

GRANT: You’re paying similar money for a Nissan Navara Pro-4X, close to $71,300 for a Ford Ranger Wildtrak, while a Toyota HiLux Rogue is about $75k. Mazda’s BT-50 shares much of its bodywork and all underbody components, with the best-equipped Pickup about $88,500 drive-away.

KEL: I think it’s among the better looking utes around.

GRANT: The greatest challenge at the moment is getting one. Those hunting an X-Terrain are likely to wait about six months.

Interior upgrades for the 022 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain include glossy features on the dash, doors and console, as well as red stitching for the leather-trimmed seats.

THE LIVING SPACE

KEL: With so many families now using dual-cabs as their primary vehicle, I can see why the interiors have been upgraded. This feels car-like in terms of layout and style.

GRANT: There are still some hard plastics around the dash, but it has to also cope with the rigours of tough work. The X-Terrain treads the line of lifestyle and labourer.

KEL: My primary need is covered with the nine-inch touchscreen which has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

GRANT: The latter is wireless, too. But new inclusions are red stitching on the black leather trim, glossy black finishes around the steering wheel, air vents, console and doors.

KEL: It’s now also got a light for the mirror under the sun visor, but I love the fact it also has heated seats. That was my biggest annoyance on the previous model as I use that function all the time.

GRANT: Upgrades have been minor but important. Storage spaces remain the same with an area in front of the shifter for phones and a centre console. There are two centre cup-holders which can handle bottles but are too deep for takeaway coffees.

KEL: I left the keys in the base of the cup holders to stop the coffees from resting on their lids.

GRANT: There are pop-out cup-holders in the dash but they sit beneath the vents … that impedes airflow and cools the caffeine.

Improvements to the 2022 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain specification list further improve its appeal.

THE COMMUTE

KEL: Not only have utes improved within the cabin, but also ease of driving. I had no issue with the D-Max being too heavy behind the wheel and it felt strong from take-off.

GRANT: Engine outputs from the 3.0-litre turbo diesel remain the same, although there have been other upgrades. The total vehicle weight combined with what you’re towing (gross combination mass) increased to six tonne – up 50kg.

KEL: I’m guessing that’s important to a lot of people.

GRANT: Absolutely, and vital to keep track of for those hauling. Braked towing capacity remains 3500kg with a towball weight of 350kg. The tow bar receiver is also now a standard feature.

KEL: All the safety equipment I use was there, like the radar cruise control which maintains preset distances from other vehicles, along with blind spot warnings and lane keeping.

GRANT: One of the bugbears for owners had been the chimes and warnings associated with lane keeping. Now there is a steering wheel button that once you hold down for two seconds turns the system off. This isn’t an isolated issue for Isuzu, it’s the same for most manufacturers, with the lane-keeping functions particularly annoying once you leave the highway.

Kel and Grant Edwards.

THE SHOPPING

KEL: Having the tonneau cover would be a must for me with any ute. It’s greater flexibility for keeping items safe without loading up the back seat.

GRANT: The locking mechanism and strap system for pulling the cover closed can be a little cumbersome at first, yet fine when you’re accustomed to the system. Ute owners face the same battle with groceries and some partitions are always useful.

KEL: It’s also an arm workout to lift groceries into the back.

GRANT: Front and back sensors, rear cross traffic alert to warn of oncoming vehicles when reversing along with a reversing camera help make parking easier. An aerial camera view would be handy to ensure you’re always positioned centre within the park.

Tackling the tough stuff in the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain.

THE SUNDAY RUN

KEL: Some dual-cab utes feel bouncy, but I didn’t find the D-Max uncomfortable.

GRANT: Often it’s a battle to deliver ride comfort while still maintaining a reasonable payload in the back. Compared to rivals it’s one of the best all-rounders.

KEL: Going off-road would be the biggest drawcard and leaving the bitumen didn’t cause a hiccup.

GRANT: Isuzu has built a tough and reliable reputation and this is one capable ute. You can tackle the toughest of terrain, as well as tow a caravan or boat. It’s an underworked engine … and close relations are used in small trucks.

During out test, some longer highway runs saw the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain achieve average diesel consumption of 7.7L/100km.

THE FAMILY

KEL: Two air vents in the back along with a USB charging point kept the complaints from our two boys to a minimum.

GRANT: The rear bench in all utes lack appeal, but the X-Terrain provides a reasonable recline capability and generous head, leg and knee room.

KEL: What are the running costs like?

GRANT: Warranty coverage trumps most ute rivals at six years or 150,000km – other than Mitsubishi which is 10 years. Continue dealer maintenance and roadside assistance program runs for seven years matched the capped price servicing plan. Services are required annually or every 15,000km, with an average price of $460. Our fuel consumption averaged 7.7 litres for every 100km courtesy of some longer highway runs.

The roller tonneau cover provides additional security for loads in the tub.

THE VERDICT

KEL: Some of the small upgrades are big for me. Before the lack of heated seats sidelined the D-Max from my consideration list, but I really like the look inside and out. It’s a thumbs up from me.

GRANT: The D-Max X-Terrain remains the best buy among the top-tier options. Prices may have risen slightly, but it maintains prime position when you combine safety, performance and features.