2024 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×4 Standard (AT) Review

The market demand for pickup trucks in Malaysia has been consistently stable, especially for models with full-time four-wheel drive capability, which are often used for construction site transportation, outdoor off-roading, or as versatile family vehicles. The 2024 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×4 Standard (AT), as the entry-level four-wheel-drive model in this lineup, focuses on "practicality, durability, and cost-effectiveness." In this test drive, we will focus on verifying its load capacity, off-road performance, and daily driving comfort to determine whether it meets the needs of users balancing work and life.

The exterior continues the rugged style of the Isuzu D-Max family. The overall silhouette is boxy, and the body lines are primarily straight, highlighting the utilitarian nature of a pickup truck. The front face features a large matte black grille, complemented by irregularly shaped LED headlights, with daytime running lights designed in a strip format, offering high recognition when lit. The sides of the vehicle are minimally adorned, with black scratch-resistant strips at the lower part of the doors and fixed rails on both sides of the cargo bed. The exact dimensions of the cargo bed are not specified, but visually, it seems able to accommodate standard-sized construction materials or outdoor gear. The rear design is straightforward, with LED taillights echoing the headlight design. The rear bumper integrates parking sensors, and the tailgate is manually operated with a black spoiler on top. The overall dimensions of the vehicle are 5270mm in length, 1870mm in width, and 1785mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3125mm. The short cargo bed combined with a long wheelbase balances cabin space and off-road stability.

The interior is primarily in dark tones, with the dashboard made of hard plastic materials, consistent with its entry-level positioning. However, the craftsmanship is solid, with no noticeable gaps or loose parts. The steering wheel is a three-spoke design, with manual height adjustment supported, and features volume control and phone answering buttons on the left side. On top of the dashboard is a small monochrome display showing basic information such as fuel consumption and water temperature. Below it is the manual air conditioning control section, with clear button layout and easy operation. The seats are made of fabric and the front seats support manual adjustments; the driver's seat is height-adjustable. The seating provides average wrapping but decent support, ensuring little fatigue during long drives. The rear seats adopt a 60:40 split-folding design, which can expand storage space when folded down. Additionally, there are air conditioning vents at the rear, enhancing passenger comfort. In terms of storage space, the inside of the front door panels can hold water bottles, the bottom of the dashboard has an open storage compartment, and the central armrest box is of moderate depth, suitable for storing small items.

In terms of dynamic performance, this model is equipped with a 1.9L turbocharged diesel engine that produces a maximum power of 150 horsepower and a peak torque of 350 Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The power response during acceleration is relatively gentle, gradually increasing as the turbo kicks in. There is sufficient torque for low to medium-speed driving, allowing for overtaking or climbing hills without the need to press the accelerator deeply. The gearbox shifts smoothly, with no noticeable jerks, but the shifting speed is average, suitable for stable driving. The chassis features a front double wishbone independent suspension and a rear leaf spring non-independent suspension, tuned on the stiffer side to handle heavy loads and off-road requirements. On bumpy roads, the rear suspension filters out vibrations poorly, resulting in noticeable body jolts. However, the stability is good when driving on flat roads. The steering system uses hydraulic assistance, with a relatively heavy feel to the steering wheel. The directional accuracy is acceptable and provides good road feedback during off-road driving.

Off-road performance is the focus of this test drive. This car is equipped with a full-time four-wheel drive system that allows switching between two-wheel drive, high-speed four-wheel drive, and low-speed four-wheel drive modes through a knob located behind the gear lever. While driving on unpaved roads, the high-speed four-wheel drive mode provides even power distribution and good tire grip, effortlessly navigating muddy sections and small inclines. When facing steeper slopes, switching to low-speed four-wheel drive mode significantly enhances power output due to the boost in torque, noticeably improving climbing capability. Although the approach and departure angles are not specified, in practical experience, it can handle most common off-road scenarios. The braking system performs steadily, featuring a front ventilated disc and rear disc brake combination, with moderate braking distance and well-controlled vehicle posture during emergency braking.

In terms of fuel consumption, the combined fuel consumption is about 8.5-9.0L per 100 km under mixed driving conditions. The diesel engine’s fuel efficiency is at a medium level among vehicles of the same class. Noise control is average, with noticeable engine and tire noise at high speeds, but it remains within an acceptable range, fitting for a pickup truck. Parking assistance features include rear parking sensors and a reverse camera. The reverse camera's clarity is average but sufficient for basic needs. Regarding safety configurations, it is equipped with dual airbags, ABS anti-lock braking system, and hill-start assist, meeting the safety standards of an entry-level model.

In summary, the core advantages of the 2024 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×4 Standard (AT) lie in its practical four-wheel drive system, durable diesel engine, and spacious interior. With a price of RM 116,990, it offers high cost-performance in the same class of four-wheel drive pickups. Compared to its competitors, its configurations are relatively basic but excel in reliability and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for users on a limited budget who frequently require four-wheel drive functionality. For daily driving, it is suitable for construction site transportation, outdoor off-road travel, or long-distance trips. However, for family use, the relatively stiff rear suspension and noise issues may be slight drawbacks, although it can still accommodate occasional family usage needs.

Overall, this car is a qualified utility-oriented pickup truck, suitable for users needing to balance work and light off-roading. If you value rich features or luxurious interiors, this may not be the best choice, but if you prioritize practicality and durability, it is a worthwhile option.