First drive: Isuzu D-Max and MU-X 2019 review

Tim Nicholson drives the updated 2019 Isuzu D-Max and MU-X.

First impressions:
Not much has changed with the Isuzu D-Max and MU-X, but they remain honest, reliable offerings. 

Isuzu Ute is one of the more interesting brands in the Australian automotive landscape. It has just two model lines – the mechanically related D-Max ute and the MU-X SUV – yet it outsells brands like Audi, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover and Suzuki. Not a bad effort for a truck manufacturer with a pair of ageing models in its line-up.

A reputation for reliability that has spread largely through word of mouth, as well as a clever ‘Go Your Own Way’ marketing campaign, has ensured consistent growth.

Now, Isuzu has introduced a model year 2019 update for the D-Max and MU-X that comes late in each model’s life cycle. The changes are relatively minor, but they follow more extensive upgrades released early in 2017 and then again in April last year.

Pricing has changed only marginally on some variants, but Isuzu has upped its warranty offering, from five years/130,000 kilometres to six years/150,000 kilometres, while roadside assistance lasts for six years and capped-price servicing for seven.

There are no changes to the powertrain, with both models continuing with the Isuzu-made 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel unit that delivers 130kW/430Nm. While the D-Max is available with a six-speed manual and six-speed auto, the SUV only has the auto.

Styling wise, the updated D-Max gains new 18-inch matte-black aluminium wheels on the LS-T, wrapped in highway-terrain tyres. Higher-grade variants gain more durable side steps, and the LS-T gets matte-black roof rails. Some variants get more matte black on the B-pillars and grille.