Isuzu D-Max pickup - Reliability & safety

The Isuzu D-Max is popular with buyers who like its no-nonsense approach, placing robustness over all else. Isuzu does have over 100 UK dealers but they’re quite spread out, so customers may live considerable distances away from a maintenance bay. With many D-Maxes bought for work, buyers really can’t afford unreliability.

Isuzu D-Max reliability

We’ve heard few criticisms over the reliability of the D-Max. Mechanically there are few recurring faults and the interior and exterior all feel built to last. Isuzu’s five-year, 125,000-mile warranty tells you all you need to know about the company’s confidence in its vehicle.

Safety

Commercial vehicles don’t always score top marks for safety, because their shape and design brief to fit a specific purpose takes priority. However, the Isuzu D-Max scored the full five stars when it was tested by Euro NCAP in late 2022. It scored well for occupant safety and even though the Vulnerable Road Users category was its worst-performing area, the D-Max was on par with many SUVs and crossovers.

All versions of the Isuzu D-Max come with anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control as standard – much like its main rivals. Inside, even the basic trim level has dual front, side and curtain airbags, plus height-adjustable seatbelts for maximum protection. Four-wheel-drive models have the benefit of 4x4 selection on the move for added security in slippery conditions. From 2018, 4x4 versions are also fitted with Trailer Sway Control as standard, using automatic engine torque reduction and braking to bring a swinging trailer back under control.