Tow Test: Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain 2024

The 2024 Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain is the premium member of the D-MAX ute range, combining a refreshed exterior with a more polished cabin and a strong emphasis on towing and practical off-road ability. This is a model-information and road-test article rather than a listing for a specific vehicle, but it provides a detailed picture of the X-Terrain’s capabilities and compromises.

The facelift is deliberately restrained, with a redesigned bonnet, front bumper and two-tone grille giving the D-MAX a more contemporary face. Integrated indicators, LED daytime running lights and welcome lighting are incorporated into the revised headlights, while the fog-light surrounds feature air curtains. At the rear, a new tailgate skin and LED tail-lights are matched with redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels. The result is a tougher-looking ute without abandoning the functional, work-oriented character of the D-MAX.

Inside, the X-Terrain receives a modest but useful update. A Muira Origami-inspired trim pattern adds visual interest to the doors, seats and dashboard, while red stitching and leather upholstery help distinguish the premium grade. More importantly, the previous button-only audio controls are replaced by conventional volume and tuning knobs, making everyday adjustments easier. The cabin remains conservative and durable in its layout, with supportive front seats and useful space for occupants in both rows.

Technology is one of the stronger aspects of the update. The 9.0-inch infotainment system adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with displays for off-road angles, tyre pressures and four-wheel-drive selection. Two USB-C ports are provided at both the front and rear, DAB+ digital radio is retained, and the instrument cluster gains a larger 7.0-inch digital display. The updated tyre-pressure monitoring system shows individual pressures and temperatures in real time, which is particularly useful when changing pressures for different road surfaces or towing conditions.

The X-Terrain also benefits from an expanded safety package. Its equipment includes autonomous emergency braking with Turn Assist, lane-keeping assist, active cruise control with stop-and-go capability, traffic-sign recognition and rear cross-traffic braking. A new-generation front stereo camera broadens the field of view, while the reversing camera is improved. The D-MAX retains its five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2023, although the road test notes that camera-based systems can deactivate in heavy rain or low sunlight, and that their operation is not always seamless.

Power comes from Isuzu’s 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, producing 140kW and 450Nm. In the X-Terrain it is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a part-time, dual-range 4WD system with a locking rear differential. The engine is not especially quiet or refined by class standards, but it delivers strong unladen performance and generally smooth shifts. Rough Terrain Mode is a useful addition for low-speed technical off-road driving, supplementing the D-MAX’s established four-wheel-drive hardware.

Towing is a central part of the X-Terrain’s appeal. The model is rated to tow up to 3500kg with a braked trailer, or 750kg unbraked, with a maximum tow-ball weight of 350kg. Its payload is rated at 930kg, while gross vehicle mass is 3100kg and gross combination mass is 6000kg. During testing with a caravan weighing approximately 3000kg, the ute maintained a relatively level stance under around 300kg of tow-ball download and offered good ride quality. It was responsive up to 80km/h, though the transmission hunted between fourth and fifth gears on inclines and manual selection of fourth was preferable at freeway speeds.

The towing assessment was positive but measured rather than glowing. Hill-climbing performance was described as average for the class, and slight yawing was evident in the wash of larger vehicles. The D-MAX lacks some of the trailer-focused assistance systems available in certain rivals, including trailer-light checking, trailer-aware blind-spot monitoring, trailer reversing assistance and a 360-degree camera. These omissions are worth considering for owners who regularly manoeuvre large caravans.

Fuel consumption is officially rated at 8.0L/100km on the combined cycle. Testing recorded 9.2L/100km unladen in mixed urban and highway driving, rising to 16.7L/100km while towing a 3100kg caravan. The reported fuel range is about 420km per tank with a 50km reserve under the towing-test conditions. Overall, the 2024 D-MAX X-Terrain is a capable, well-equipped dual-cab 4WD with useful towing hardware, improved technology and credible off-road systems, balanced by an old-school drivetrain feel and fewer dedicated towing aids than some newer competitors.

Other highlights include Drive train: Part-time, dual-range 4WD with locking rear differential; Engine or motor: 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, 140kW/450Nm.