I thought I would give a brief review of the new 2012 Isuzu Dmax now that it has been in my carport for about a month. Thus far, we have only done a couple of thousand kays but so far we have been very impressed.
We have the LS Terrain model. Initially we ordered just the LS-U model, but due to dealership delivery problems they upgraded us to the top of the range model. We have the 5 speed automatic and 5 year, 100,000 km warranty for $52,000 which we were very happy with. In our view, we wouldn't pay extra for the top of the range. We aren't too bothered with leather seats, roof rails or sat nav. However, she is a big girl, and the rear view camera is proving worthwhile. And the missus likes the electric height adjustment on the drivers
seat. She is a small lady but finds it very easy to drive.
Being top enders, we drove 100km south of
Darwin to give it a run on the highway. Seriously, there is no need for a 6 speed gearbox. The engine lopes along with ease. Cabin noise at 130kph (legal limit for NT) is quite good, and plenty of torque on board for overtaking a couple of 4 trailer road trains that we encountered. The engine was never left wanting.
We went off road to one of our regular haunts near
Robin Falls. Into low range 1st and 2nd the Dmax crawled over the steep rutted and washed out tracks with ease. Plenty of clearance underneath kept the Dmax out of strife, and the auto gearbox worked a treat. there are several steel bash plates in the right
places to keep the precious bits in tact, I seriously could not ask or want for more power.
Being a ute, the ride is bouncy. We intend to put a canopy and a few extras onto it down the track when they become available through ARB or TJM. Hopefully this will settle the ride down with a bit of weight on the back.
The trip computer is handy. The Dmax has a 76 litre tank. Whilst on the highway sitting on on 120-130, it was showing low 8's for fuel consumption. With half a tank to go, the computer was showing a range til empty of 400km, which was very impressive. We are getting about 10litres/100km around town, which is quite good for a new automatic diesel engine that is still tight.
Back in town, the Dmax is getting plenty of glances, as there is only a couple on the road I have seen up here in
Darwin. My neighbours who own cruiser utes, hiluxes and Navaras all like it, but they are giving me heaps for the leather seats. Oh
well.
All up, she is a great truck. We love it to bits. If any readers want to know anything about the new Dmax I'm happy to help out.
Happy travels.