2024 Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Review

The D-MAX has been a strong performer on the value front since its introduction, though in recent years, we’ve seen prices climb closer to its main rivals.

The X-Terrain sits proudly at the top of the lineup, remaining the most premium and well-equipped member of the D-MAX family while retaining physical abilities on the job site and a weekend’s off-road adventure.

In X-Terrain form, it comes with a steep price tag, though recent revisions and updates look to make it the best version of the D-MAX we’ve seen to date.

To find out just how impactful Isuzu’s updates have been for the D-MAX, we got behind the wheel of the flagship X-Terrain and will see how it stacks up as a flagship, work-and-family-ready dual-cab ute against its fierce rivals.

Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Competition

How Much Does the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Cost?

The flagship Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain is offered in a single, highly-specified variant here in Australia for 2024.

Prices stand at $70,500 before on-road costs are applied, though eligible ABN holders can get behind the wheel of the D-MAX X-Terrain for $67,990 drive-away.

Our review vehicle was finished in the bespoke ‘Sunset Orange’ that is reserved for X-Terrain variants and adds $695 to the price tag.

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Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain (4x4) Specifications

What Features & Specs Does the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Have?

Sitting at the top of the D-MAX range, the X-Terrain comes packed with features.

Specific to the X-Terrain, you’ll find design highlights like matte grey 18-inch alloys, a grey and chrome front grille, dark grey side steps, wheel arches, mirrors as well as a matte black roller tonneau cover and a grey metallic sports bar.

There’s also leather upholstery with red contrast stitching, front-mounted parking sensors, remote engine start and ‘X’ badging to separate the X-Terrain from lesser models in the range.

As the flagship, the X-Terrain picks up features found in other members of the range which include adaptive cruise control, bi-LED headlights, a rear-view monitor, heated and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and a tub liner. 

What’s New in the 2024 Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain?

2024 has seen Isuzu roll out a series of incremental upgrades for the D-MAX.

On the styling front, there’s a revised front grille design and air intakes, while the indicators now reside inside the headlight array.

There’s also a revised bonnet design with new design lines and a reworked tailgate section with combination LED tail lights.

On the technology front, there’s a new and larger infotainment screen as well as a new digital instrument cluster and wireless smartphone mirroring, adaptive cruise control across the range, a new forward-looking camera and an updated rear-view camera.

Importantly, the MY24 D-MAX range picks up a new ‘rough terrain mode’ that debuted in the MU-X SUV, making it even more capable when pushed on loose surfaces off-road.

Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Connectivity & Infotainment Features

One material technology update in the latest D-MAX X-Terrain is a larger 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that replaces the outgoing 8.0-inch unit.

It’s certainly a worthwhile addition, especially as its contemporary rivals come packing large, high-definition displays that are packed with features.

The extra screen real estate certainly helps, though it’s not at the top of the pile when it comes to looks, high-fidelity graphics or brightness, especially when displaying information with the sun shining.

That said, the update is welcomed, especially with Isuzu re-adopting physical dials for the volume instead of the buttons below the screen you’ll find in MY23 models.

Isuzu’s 9.0-inch infotainment system packs DAB+ digital radio, satellite navigation, USB-C charging ports and an eight-speaker sound system, the latter of which proves a major upgrade over the HIFI system in lower-spec D-MAX variants.

Does the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Have Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto?

Potential buyers will be pleased to know that Isuzu has updated the D-MAX’s infotainment system with wireless smartphone mirroring for both iOS and Android ecosystems.

That means that you’re able to access Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly, the latter of which was missing on previous models.

The process of connecting your phone wirelessly to either Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is quick and simple, though we noticed a small number of drop-outs in the connection in our time behind the wheel.

You can also connect your phone via one of the D-MAX’s USB-C ports, which is a nice upgrade considering the faster data transfer and charging speeds, which brings it closer in line with its rivals on the technology front.

Is the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Comfortable to Drive?

For all its prowess off-road and on the job site, the D-MAX X-Terrain is incredibly user-friendly behind the wheel.

While there are more than a few reminders of its tough platform on the road, the overall driving experience is surprisingly refined and feels purpose-built for the wide mix of roads we’ve got here in Australia.

Under the bonnet, you’ll find the company’s tried and tested 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, which kicks up 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque to the wheels via a six-speed transmission.

On a cold start, Isuzu’s turbo-diesel unit sounds a little gruff, though things tone down a little bit as you hit the road and it proves itself a mighty powertrain.

It’s not exactly a flagship power unit, though the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel isn’t afraid to get to work, produces decent acceleration off the line with peak torque from just 1,400rpm, and offers smooth shifts from the six-speed auto.

The mid-range pickup is also pretty impressive considering the D-MAX’s weight, with relatively effortless acceleration around town and no problems kicking up to highway speeds.

Around town, the X-Terrain proves itself a bit of a softy considering its hardcore appeal for off-road enthusiasts and working Aussies alike.

It makes light work of a car park thanks to its super lightweight steering rack, and while you’ll often need to make a three-point turn to squeeze into most spots, the process is at least, a simple one.

The steering has also been calibrated to offer some meatier feedback as you pick up the pace, which means you’ve got a pretty clear idea of what the front axle is up to, adding to your confidence behind the wheel.

In terms of the ride quality, the D-MAX in X-Terrain form shapes up as a very solid contender, too. 

When unloaded, you certainly notice a taught suspension feel over small and medium-sized bumps, which is a testament to its work-ready platform that makes it feel near bulletproof.

Hit the open road and the D-MAX really begins to shine, soaking up larger bumps with a rock-solid feel that makes it a performer on a wide array of Aussie road conditions.

It’s not exactly a performer in the corners, though it does feel undeniably solid and sturdy no matter what you throw at it.

On the highway, the D-MAX is happy to settle back down and become a fairly well-mannered road tripper.

Overtakes are a smooth affair, allowing you to ride the wave of torque and pick up the pace, while the steering at highway speeds feels more substantial and meaty in terms of feedback.

All up, the D-MAX X-Terrain is difficult to fault, especially if you’re looking for a package that is user-friendly around town but tough enough to tackle a cross-country road trip on the roughest possible roads.

Is the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Fuel Efficient?

Considering its power and towing capabilities, the D-MAX X-Terrain is reasonably fuel efficient and, most importantly for potential buyers, it’s relatively easy to match Isuzu’s fuel economy claims in the real world.

On paper, the D-MAX X-Terrain sips 8.0L per 100km on a combined cycle.

In the real world and with no particular aim at efficient driving, we were able to better Isuzu’s figures and average 7.7L per 100km on a mix of town, country and highway driving over the course of 630km.

It’s particularly impressive when cruising up the highway, where you’ll see economy figures hover around the low 7L per 100km mark.

With a 76L tank, the D-MAX X-Terrain with a fully-brimmed load of diesel offers an average fuel distance of 950km between refills.

How Much Fuel does the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain use Around Town?

• D-MAX X-Terrain City Consumption: 9.8L per 100km

How Much Fuel Does the D-MAX X-Terrain Use on the Highway?

• D-MAX X-Terrain Highway Consumption: 6.9L per 100km

Is the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain a Tough Off-Roader?

The D-MAX X-Terrains confidently ticks all the fundamental boxes for an adventure-ready off-roader. 

With tonnes of torque from its 3.0-litre turbo-diesel powerplant, lofty ground clearance, a part-time 4WD system with 2H, 4H and 4L, a locking differential and aggressive approach and departure angles, the D-MAX is a strong performer off-road.

To make things even better, MY24 D-MAX variants also pick up a rough terrain mode that debuted with the latest MU-X SUV.

The new rough terrain mode uses the D-MAX’s traction control system to determine which wheel needs some more added traction and sends more torque to that wheel to overcome obstacles.

Full off-road specs for the 2024 D-MAX X-Terrain can be found below.

• Ground Clearance: 240mm

• Wading Depth: 800mm

• Approach Angle: 27.3 degrees

• Departure Angle: 19.0 degrees

• Breakover Angle: 23.8 degrees

How Much Can the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Tow and Carry?

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg

• Unbraked Towing Capacity: 750kg

• Payload: 930kg

• Gross Vehicle Mass: 3,100kg

• Gross Combination Mass: 6,000kg

Is the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Practical and Spacious?

Dual-cab utes are put to work in equal measures on the job site and with Aussie families, with the D-MAX X-Terrain standing as a solid, practical option in the segment.

Step inside the X-Terrain and things are pretty premium, with leather upholstery paired with red contrast stitching covering the majority of the cockpit.

Headroom is great, even for extremely tall drivers and front passengers, with the lofty platform adding a healthy amount of forward and side visibility.

The D-Max’s seats also prove extremely comfortable on a long haul up the highway, with eight-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat and four-way adjustment for the co-pilot.

While there are some special, bespoke touches for the X-Terrain, it’s still not the flashiest interior, especially for a flagship model.

Instead, it’s more of an honest battler with a utilitarian nature - the D-MAX is a fan of the socks and tracksuit approach over a flashy pair of jeans and shoes.

The upside of this approach is that familiarising yourself with the cabin takes a few seconds, the ergonomics tick all the fundamental boxes and the cabin remains as comfortable as a new pair of ugg boots.

The downside is that, especially for a range-topping halo model, the X-Terrain doesn’t feel particularly special inside the cabin and doesn’t necessarily reflect the extra dollars you’ve lashed out on the flagship D-MAX.

The centre console offers a storage tray behind the gear lever, a pair of cupholders and some added storage inside the folding armrest, though it’s quite a small area.

There’s also a bonus pair of cupholders next to each side air vent on the dashboard and bottle holders inside the doors.

Move to the second row of the D-MAX cabin and things are pretty much bang-on for the dual-cab segment.

There are no real issues in terms of legroom for adults sitting in the rear, though you might have to sacrifice a little bit up front to allow taller guests to avoid banging their knees.

That said, headroom is great, with the tall roofline adding to space and light entering the cabin, while amenities like USB-C charging and a folding armrest with cupholders will be a welcome addition.

The D-MAX’s rear bench seats also fold up to allow for some extra cargo space, while two pairs of ISOFIX anchors and top tether mounts will keep the parents happy.

How Big is the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain’s Tray?

• Length: 1,570mm

• Width: 1,530mm

• Width between wheel arches: 1,122mm
  Height: 490mm

Is the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Safe?

Isuzu has given the D-MAX some key safety upgrades, with a revised lane-keep assist system, new rear cross-traffic assist, an updated rear-view monitor and an updated adaptive cruise control system headlining the list.

You’ll also find an autonomous emergency braking system, turn assist, forward collision warnings, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure alerts, driver attention monitoring, tyre pressure monitoring, front and rear parking sensors and eight airbags.

All things considered, the D-MAX is more competitive than ever before when it comes to active safety gear thanks to a hefty list of equipment and some major updates that make it the safest dual-cab ute we’ve seen from the company yet.

Does the Isuzu D-MAX Have an ANCAP Safety Rating?

It sure does - five stars, in fact.

The D-MAX scored full marks from ANCAP after testing in 2020 and a second round of testing in 2022 saw it score the following marks. 

• Adult Occupant Protection: 86%

• Child Occupant Protection: 89%

• Vulnerable Road User Protection: 69%

• Safety Assist: 81%

What Warranty Does the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Come With?

Isuzu offers the D-MAX X-Terrain with a six-year/150,000-kilometre factory warranty.

Buyers also receive seven years’ worth of roadside assist when servicing their D-MAX at the dealership. 

Isuzu offers a complimentary service within three months or 3,000 kilometres of taking delivery of their D-MAX, with capped-price servicing of $449 per visit over five years.

This means that the cost of five years’ worth of servicing for the D-MAX totals $2,245.

Service intervals for the D-MAX range stand at 12-months or 15,000-kilometres, whichever elapses first.

Our Verdict: Is the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Worth it?

No matter how close you shine the microscope, the Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain is a near bullet-proof proposition for working Aussies and family buyers alike.

It’s got great table manners around town for a tough, dual-cab ute while remaining rock-solid on pretty much every stretch of road - or off-road trail - you can throw at it.

Sure, we would have appreciated some more noticeable special touches inside the cabin for this range-topper, though we can also appreciate how the X-Terrain walks the walk and lets its off-road potential do the talking.

The D-MAX in X-Terrain form very much matches what’s on offer from other halo utes where it really matters and, in that respect, does not disappoint.

If you’re on a tight budget, we’d encourage you to take a closer look at lower-spec versions of the D-MAX that retain the same 3.0-litre powerplant and immense off-road abilities.

If, however, you’re looking for the ultimate D-MAX experience, we can assure you that you won’t be disappointed stepping behind the wheel of the D-MAX X-Terrain.

On that note, if you’re looking to upgrade to a new work vehicle or family-friendly package, be sure to reach out to one of our car-buying specialists who can help you find the best possible price.

Five Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain Specs You Need to Know

1. Six-year/160,000-kilometre warranty with seven years’ roadside assist

2. Five-star ANCAP safety rating

3. 3.0-litre turbo-diesel produces 140kW/450Nm

4. 3,5000kg braked towing capacity, 930kg payload figures

5. 12-month/15,000-kilometre service intervals