While some brands have retreated from the pickup market — I’m looking at you, Mercedes, Mitsubishi and Nissan — Isuzu has doubled down. The D-Max is still here, still tough, and still proving why it’s a firm favourite among those who actually use their trucks for what they were designed for.
The DL20 sits right in the sweet spot of the Isuzu D-Max range, bridging the gap between the no-nonsense Utility model and the more lifestyle-focused V-Cross. It’s built for those who need a truck that can take on a tough working day but still be comfortable enough for the school run or a long motorway drive.
This year has seen the D-Max treated to a few updates — nothing radical, but enough to keep things fresh. There’s a revised front grille, new wheel designs, and a couple of new paint options, including Biarritz Blue and Dolomite White, and that’s about it.
With Isuzu aiming to ramp up sales to 10,000 units per year by 2025, models like the DL20 are expected to be a key part of that plan. But how well does it balance work and play?
Isuzu D-Max DL20 Interior
Step inside the DL20, and it’s clear that this isn’t just a stripped-back workhorse. The cabin is a definite step up from the Utility model, with plush cloth-covered seats and a smattering of appreciated luxuries, giving it a more refined feel. That said, I’d like to see a leather-cvered steering wheel rather than the plastic one fitted.
The dashboard layout is functional rather than flashy, with an easy-to-use LCD infotainment screen surrounded by physical buttons. There’s no large touchscreen system, so no support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but it’s easy to hook your phone to the sound system vua Bluetooth to stream music or listen to navigation instructions. Air conditioning is a welcome touch, keeping the cabin comfortable, whatever the weather.
Storage is practical but not as generous as some rivals. There are plenty of cup holders — I counted 10 if you include the bottle holders in the door — but relatively few trays or bins for smaller items. And if you’re someone who keeps their phone or keys loose on the dash, be warned — they’re likely to end up on the floor at the first sharp turn. Place them in the cubby hole under the armrest instead.
Rear seat space is decent, with enough room for two adults to sit comfortably. Squeezing in a third is doable but not ideal, but think of it as an apprentice’s rite of passage. Isofix mounts make it easy to secure child seats if you’re using the D-Max for family duties.
A few nice design touches help lift the cabin. The newly designed upholstery with horizontal layering adds a more premium look, while rear USB ports in addition to those in the front are handy for charging devices and keeping kids entertained.
Parking sensors come as standard, making manoeuvring this big beast in tight urban spaces much easier than expected.
On the Road
Driving a pickup will always feel different from a car, but the D-Max has improved significantly in refinement. The 1.9-litre diesel engine produces 164hp and 360Nm of torque, which is enough for most jobs, though it’s not going to win any drag races. The six-speed automatic gearbox is smooth, but there’s a noticeable delay when setting off — it takes a moment to gather itself before getting going.
Once moving, though, the DL20 feels more agile than you might expect. The electric power-assisted steering is light enough for urban driving but offers decent feedback at higher speeds. There’s still some body roll in corners, but the ride is far less bouncy than older pickups. That said, when unladen, it can still feel jittery over speed bumps and potholes. Adding a bit of weight in the back improves things considerably.
On the motorway, the D-Max settles into an easy cruise. Noise levels are well controlled at higher speeds, though the engine does make itself heard under hard acceleration. Cruise control takes the strain out of long journeys (although it’s a better adaptive system on models equipped with an automatic gearbox), though the lane-departure prevention can be a bit overzealous, nudging the wheel at times when you don’t expect it.
Over a week and around 400 miles of motoring, I averaged 31.7mpg, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability, especially considering the weight of my right foot.
It’s also worth noting that since all D-Max models come in under 2,040kg, they qualify for standard passenger car speed limits, unlike some rival double-cabs that must adhere to lower commercial vehicle speed limits.
Off the Road
When the tarmac runs out, the D-Max comes into its own. The DL20 is well-equipped for off-road adventures, with selectable shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive, a locking rear differential, hill descent control, and improved axle articulation over previous models.
Switching between 2H, 4H, and 4L is as simple as twisting a dial on the centre console, and the system engages quickly. With 800mm of wading depth, it can easily handle deep water crossings so you won’t end up on YouTube as a Rufford Ford fail
, and the low-range mode provides extra traction for more demanding terrain. The locking diff is particularly useful when conditions get tricky, keeping you moving when one wheel loses grip.
During testing, I took it through muddy fields and gravel tracks, and it handled everything with confidence — although the flat lands of Cambridgeshire offer little to truly challenge the D-Max. While this test didn’t push it to the extreme, I’ve put other versions of the D-Max through some serious off-road challenges, and it’s passed all of them with little trouble. There’s no reason to doubt that the DL20 would be any different.
| Approach angle | 30.5° | Climbing angle limit | N/A |
| Departure angle | 24.2° | Ground clearance | 240 mm |
| Ramp angle limit | 22.9° | Wading depth | 800 mm |
Economy and Running Costs
The DL20 manual achieves an official 33.6mpg, while the automatic returns 30.7mpg. Emissions stand at 220g/km and 241g/km, respectively. The engine meets Euro 6D standards and features a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to reduce nitrogen dioxide emissions.
Isuzu offers a class-leading five-year/125,000-mile warranty, which is a significant selling point for business users and private buyers alike. Roadside assistance is included for five years, covering the UK and Europe.
Payload and Towing
The DL20 can carry up to 1,120kg in the manual version and 1,090kg with the automatic. This keeps it above the crucial one-tonne threshold for commercial vehicle tax benefits.
The load bed is 1,495mm long, 1,530mm wide and 490mm deep, offering plenty of room for materials, tools, or camping gear. Being closely related to the more commercial-oriented models, the DL20 can also be ordered as an Extended Cab model, lengthening the load bay by 310mm. Towing capacity is a full 3,500kg, making it one of the most capable pickups in its class for hauling trailers, caravans, or horseboxes.
With an optional hardtop fitted, the load area becomes a secure and weatherproof space, with side windows for ventilation. The sturdy tailgate can also double as a makeshift bench—perfect for a quick break on-site or at an outdoor event.
| Kerb weight | 1,980 kg | Load bay length | 1,495 mm |
| Gross vehicle weight | 3,100 kg | Load bay width | 1,530 mm |
| Payload | 1,120 kg | Load bay height | 490 mm |
| Gross train weight | 6,000 kg | Liftover height | N/A |
| Towing cpacity (unbraked) | 750 kg | Towing cpacity braked | 3,500 kg |
Isuzu D-Max DL20 Verdict
The Isuzu D-Max DL20 is a proper workhorse with a touch of civility. It’s not as plush as some lifestyle pickups, but it makes up for that with durability, safety, and value for money.
It’s well-equipped for a mid-spec model, offering plenty of creature comforts without losing its commercial toughness. The 1.9-litre diesel engine may not be the most powerful, but it’s reliable and efficient. Off-road capability is strong, and the standard safety features are excellent.
If you need a truck that can put in a shift during the week, carry the family at the weekend, and tow heavy loads without breaking the bank, the DL20 is a strong contender. It may not be as refined as the Ford Ranger or as flashy as some lifestyle trucks, but it’s dependable, well-priced, and backed by an outstanding warranty.
The D-Max DL20 isn’t here to show off, it’s here to get the job done. In a market where flashier pickups come and go, that’s exactly why it remains a favourite.
Model tested: Isuzu D-Max DL20 Double Cab
Professional Pickup Rating: ★★★★☆
| Basic price | £28,754 | On the road inc VAT | £35,540 |
| VAT | £5,861 | Model range exc VAT | £23,004–34,854 |
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