Isuzu D-Max LS-M 2021 review: snapshot

The Isuzu D-Max is all-new, but the second model up the range retains a similar position - it’s the LS-M, a work-focused four-wheel drive dual cab version of the new D-Max.

The LS-M slots in above the SX grade and is available in double cab ute body style only, and only as a 4x4/4WD. You can have it with the choice of a six-speed manual (RRP/MSRP: $51,000) or a six-speed automatic (RRP/MSRP: $53,000). Note, those are list prices before on-road costs - there could be drive-away deals.

As with all D-Max models, it is powered by a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel with 140kW (at 3600rpm) and 450Nm (at 1600-2600rpm). Towing capacity is 750kg unbraked and 3500kg braked. Fuel use is claimed at 7.7L/100km (manual) and 8.0L/100km (auto).

Explore the 2021 Isuzu D-Max Range

Isuzu D-Max 2021 review: LS-M Isuzu D-Max 2021 review: SX 4x4 Space Cab off-road test Isuzu D-Max 2021 review: X-Terrain long-term Isuzu D-Max 2022 review: 1.9-litre SX single cab-chassis 4x2 auto - GVM test Isuzu D-Max 2022 review: LS-U 4x4 auto - GVM test Isuzu D-Max 2022 review: LSU+ 3500km on and off-road test Isuzu D-Max 2022 review: X-Terrain Isuzu D-Max LS-M 2021 review: snapshot Isuzu D-Max LS-U 2021 review: snapshot Isuzu D-Max SX 2021 review: snapshot Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain 2021 review: snapshot Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain 2022 review: off-road test

LS-M models build upon the equipment in the SX, with 17-inch alloy wheels, body colour door handles and mirror caps, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED front fog lights. The cabin adopts a six speaker sound system, and rear seat occupants get a USB port. 

That’s over and above the standard manual air-conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, automatic wipers, a 4.2-inch customisable driver display, a 7.0-inch multimedia screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, cloth interior trim, rubber flooring, tilt and telescoping multi-function steering wheel, and rear seat directional air vents.

Plus there’s all the safety gear: manual LS-M variants miss out on adaptive cruise control, but LS-M autos get that tech standard, while all have AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keeping assistance, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, front turn assist, driver attention assist, eight airbags including a ute-first front centre airbag, a reversing camera, and more.

The D-Max has scored the maximum five-star ANCAP crash test safety rating - and it's the first commercial vehicle to achieve that accolade under the stricter criteria from the safety watchdog for 2020.