Isuzu D-Max gets four NCAP stars

Its much-awaited and totally overhauled D-Max overnight received only a four-star crash rating by Euro-NCAP, the independent testing centre in Europe that is similar to the Australian ANCAP centre.

The Holden Colorado, once a clone of the Isuzu D-Max ute, last month received a five-star crash rating by ANCAP - a top rating that immediately makes it eligible for use by the huge business in mining companies and their suppliers.

These clients are less likely to buy a four-star vehicle. Isuzu Ute Australia spokesman Dave Harding says the D-Max is yet to receive an ANCAP rating. He dismisses the notion that a Euro-NCAP rating directly relates to an ANCAP rating. "The Volkswagen Amarok ute received a four-star rating by Euro-NCAP and yet a five-star rating by ANCAP,'' he says.

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"In fact, we outscored Amarok's 84 points out of 100 by getting 86 points. So we are hopeful of a five-star figure in Australia.'' Mr Harding says the fact that the Colorado has a five-star rating augers well for Isuzu. "But it also shows that they are no longer the same vehicle,'' he says. In announcing the results, Euro-NCAP says vehicle now must comply with "recently-introduced, tougher test process''.

Though rated only with four stars, the D-Max scored very well on points. Isuzu in the UK says: "It received 83 points in the adult occupant category, scoring maximum points for the protection it provides in the side-barrier test, thanks to its new, stronger, longer and wider chassis compared to its predecessor.''

In Australia, the D-Max's safety features include Anti-skid Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and Brake Assist (BA) and six airbags.