Quite significantly, Isuzu UK has announced that the towing capacity of the new D-Max has been increased by 500kg. This means that the D-Max will be able to tow a maximum braked load of 3.5 tonnes, with the new certification applying to all Isuzu D-Max pick-ups registered in the UK from 1st July. This increase has been made, according to Isuzu, due to customer demand. What is important to realise here is that there is no technical or practical changes to the pick-ups specification, it is merely a change in the certification. In the last few months, Toyota has done the same with the Hilux, raising its capacity from what was often criticised as a meagre 2500kg to a more competitive 2800kg. Isuzu it seems has raised the bar higher. In our 2013 Pick-up Of The Year test (January 2013 issue) the top pick-ups for towing were the VW Amarok at 3200kg and the Ford Ranger Wildtrak at 3350kg. This new certification puts the Isuzu D-Max firmly at the top of the list – until, one can assume, either VW or Ford look at a new certification. Supply of both these excellent pick-ups remains a problem, and this move from Isuzu will certainly not do sales of the D-Max any harm. The Isuzu D-Max range includes single, extended (with rear-hinged side access panels) and double cab body configurations. Double cab models are available in four specifications: Isuzu D-Max, Eiger, Yukon and Utah. Prices start at £14,499 (CVOTR) for the entry-level Isuzu D-Max 4×2 single cab and rise to £21,999 (CVOTR) for the top-of-the-range Isuzu D-Max Utah 4×4 double cab automatic.
