OUR last encounter with Isuzu's new generation D-Max saw us take its 2.5-litre variant through a memorable northbound road trip last year. With it, we genuinely loved its highly reliable and frugal engine, its stylish design, as well as the all-round practicality typically expected of such a vehicle type.
However, it did suffer from a lack of power, a less refined ride and handling, as well as the absence of features and amenities in the cabin.
In a move that appears to have solved all of that, Isuzu Malaysia introduced a new premium and more powerful 3.0-litre V-Cross variant for our market recently, and we did not hesitate to say yes when they offered us a seat in a press drive up to Penang just last week.
With the D-Max V-Cross variant, Isuzu has opted to offer two trims, the first being a standard V-Cross automatic and manual, followed by a better specced and premium V-Cross 'Safari' trim which we tested. And, on paper at least, things look mighty interesting with this orange Japanese behemoth.
First of all, we cannot ignore the Safari trim's more rugged exterior enhancements. Complementing the unique orange paintjob are the Safari trim's contrasting matte grey-painted front bumper accents and grille, side-steps, roof rails, and 17-inch wheels wrapped in 255/65-sized Bridgestone Dueller rubber.
Rounding off the exterior enhancements in this trim is what Isuzu calls the 'V-Lid' cargo cover that also features an Osram LED lamp mounted inside.
While the effects of the new rear cargo lid on the D-Max's original design may not appeal to most hard core pickup truck enthusiasts, it does play a crucial part with the D-Max's handling nature which we will explain later on. But as far as looks go, the D-Max V-Cross Safari has already found its place in our favourites list.
The same positive vibe also resonates within the cabin. New here are the premium and comfortable leather seat covers with exclusive stitched 'V-Cross' badging, accompanied by a new and more high tech infotainment unit with a 6.2-inch screen that boasts Bluetooth and USB connectivity plus navigation and reverse camera function – a feature not available in the base 2.5-litre model we tested last year.
While it may not sound like a significant upgrade, these two additional items in the Safari trim's kit list does go well with the cabin's generous head, arm, and legroom.
Perhaps the only let down here besides the uncomfortable rear seats is the dashboard's hard plastics. But in its defence, it does offer a plethora of decently sized storage cubbies and fold-out cup holders, making it very utilitarian and practical to store all the usual small and loose items.
The biggest joy, however, comes from the V-Cross trim's new and improved powertrain. Underneath the bonnet, Isuzu has fitted the V-Cross with its new 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-litre twin-cam four-cylinder turbo-diesel with a direct injection electronic common rail system.
Developing 174hp and maximum torque of 380Nm, it stands as Isuzu's most powerful passenger pickup truck to date. In Safari trim, the mill is exclusively mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with a manual override system, and the brand's semi-active fourwheel-drive system with three modes.
What we loved the most here was the refined delivery and increased power it boasts, especially with the fact that maximum torque kicks in from as low as 1,800rpm.
The transmission, however, could use a little more smoothness, but it does feel adequate and robust – a very typical characteristic of the Isuzu brand's automatics in its passenger vehicle line up.
And, while it is not tyre-shredding fast, it does feel quick enough to propel the V-Cross' 2,600kg gross weight around, even on terrains as tested during the drive's stop over up at a hill retreat in Gopeng, Perak. And again, we find ourselves appreciating this turbo-diesel unit's high fuel economy.
With conservative driving, Isuzu states that the mill will return anywhere between 700km to 900km of travel from its 76-litre fuel tank – a feat we have come to expect of any turbo-diesel pick up.
Also typical of any pickup truck, the D-Max utilises a traditional ladder frame type chassis underneath with leaf springs in the rear matched with independent double wishbones up front.
Our verdict from testing the 2.5-litre variant previously was that its ride and handling was a tad bit harsh and somewhat unrefined. This is something most come to expect from a pickup truck with an unladen cargo flatbed.
This trim's V-Lid, which weighs an additional 45kg, has somewhat softened the rear leaf springs, giving the V-Cross Safari a much more refined ride, and together with the 17-inch alloy's different offset setting, adds increased chassis compliancy. In other words, this Safari trim has a much more comfortable and supple ride and handling.
Couple that with the peace of mind from knowing that the D-Max is one of the very few pick ups equipped with a stability programme or ESP, dual airbags, ABS brakes with EBD and BA, and a traction control system, the D-Max V-Cross Safari's overall package is hard for us to refute.
At the end of our drive, we find ourselves truly loving the D-Max V-Cross Safari for its newfound refinement and suppleness.
Perhaps the only challenge left here is whether one is willing to muster the on-the-road price tag of RM118,485.90 the V-Cross Safari trim commands. Said price includes Isuzu's offer of a three-year or 100,000km warranty plan plus 24-hour breakdown assistance.
While it may not have enough to topple the segment's highly decorated Ford Ranger 3.2-litre variant for its crown, we believe that the D-Max V-Cross Safari stands as a pretty good alternative to it. A fact made apparent when compared against other rivalling Japanese makes available in our market.
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The 3.0-litre engine balances power and economy and is one of the Safari’s best features.
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The mix of digital and analogue dials provide all the information you will ever need, it also does not suffer from glare and is fairly dim at night.
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The rear V-Lid adds practicality to this truck, but it also adds a further 45 kilograms.
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