CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 155
Average Price: Around £26,000

Isuzu D-Max (2021-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
A truly capable workhorse	The single-cab Utility model has a lower towing limit than the rest of the range
Plenty of creature comforts for lifestyle customers	Expect high fuel bills compared with an SUV's
Excellent safety rating	Expensive to insure

Quick Summary

The Isuzu D-Max (2021-present) is a third-generation pickup truck that has emerged as a strong contender in a shrinking market. With competitors like the Volkswagen Amarok, Mercedes-Benz X-Class, and Mitsubishi L200 withdrawing from the UK, the D-Max benefits from reduced competition whilst offering genuine quality improvements. Three body styles are available—single cab, extended cab, and double cab—each with varying load bed lengths and seating configurations. The cabin is notably more car-like than previous generations, featuring soft-touch plastics, snug side bolsters, and touchscreen infotainment systems on higher-spec models with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Powered by a 1.9-litre diesel engine producing 162bhp, the D-Max is available with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. Whilst the engine is coarse and noisy compared to SUVs, it delivers decent low-down grunt and impressive agility for a truck. All models except the entry-level Utility feature four-wheel drive with low-range settings, hill descent control, and 800mm wading depth capability. Most versions offer a 3.5-tonne towing capacity. Trim levels span from purely utilitarian Utility models to the lifestyle-focused V-Cross, with the mid-range DL20 and DL40 offering a balance of work and weekend use. Running costs include fixed VED at £265 annually, attractive company car tax rates if employer-provided, and real-world fuel consumption in the high 20s mpg, though insurance sits in the maximum group 50D.

Best for: Buyers seeking a capable workhorse with modern creature comforts, those wanting a truck for both work and weekend use, and customers benefiting from company car tax advantages.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising fuel economy over capability, buyers concerned about high insurance premiums, or those requiring the single-cab Utility model's higher towing capacity.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the D-Max if: You need a capable workhorse with modern creature comforts, want a truck for both work and weekend use, or benefit from company car tax advantages.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise fuel economy over capability, are concerned about high insurance premiums, or require maximum towing capacity on all models.

Competitive Position: The Isuzu D-Max (2021-present) occupies a strong position in the pickup market, particularly given the withdrawal of several competitors. It offers excellent value compared to the Toyota Hilux whilst matching the Ford Ranger on price and features. The D-Max excels in combining genuine capability with lifestyle appeal, making it an attractive proposition for both work and leisure use. Its superior user rating of 5.0 out of 5 reflects strong customer satisfaction, and the 37.4% good and great deals available demonstrate solid market value. Whilst the Mitsubishi L200 offers a slightly higher overall CarGurus rating, the D-Max's improved quality, modern features, and reduced competition position it as a highly sensible choice for pickup buyers.

Read our full Isuzu D-Max Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.