Isuzu D-Max SX 2021 review: snapshot

The Isuzu D-Max SX trim is the thickest part of the all-new D-Max range, with 13 variations available including a single cab-chassis, space cab ute and space cab-chassis (also known as extra cab), and a number of crew cab ute and crew cab-chassis models (also known as dual cab or double cab).

There’s the choice of 4x2 rear-wheel drive or 4x4/4WD/four-wheel drive underpinnings. Of course there’s a choice of six-speed manual and six-speed auto, too. 

All models are 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 for all models. Fuel use is between 7.7L/100km and 8.0L/100km depending on the model.

The entry-level SX is now a high-rider 4x2 manual model, with list pricing starting at $32,200 plus on-road costs, but Isuzu Australia has already confirmed drive-away pricing for some models, including the range-opening single-cab-chassis manual ute for $29,990 drive-away. 

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

Here’s a rundown on the SX models available: 

Standard equipment for the SX models comprises a 7.0-inch touchscreen media system with wireless Apple CarPlay and USB connect Android Auto, 17-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights, auto headlights and auto high-beam lights, auto wipers, tilt and reach adjustable steering, vinyl flooring, cloth seat trim, air-conditioning, and rear seat airvents for dual cabs.

There is plenty of safety technology as well: while manual models miss out on adaptive cruise control, autos get that tech standard, and all variants 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.