The new generation of Isuzu brand pickups, assembled in Thailand since 2002, has received the name D-MAX. In the Australian market it is delivered as Holden Rodeo, and in the UK - as Isuzu Rodeo. The Japanese company has developed this full-size pickup with the active participation of the American concern General Motors. D-Max is built on a slightly upgraded TF platform of previous Isuzu pickups. Cabins - single Regular Cab, one and a half Extended Cab and double Crew Cab, as well as a version with an onboard all-metal body Regular Cab Flat Deck. D-Max is really good looking.
Modern cab shapes, fashionable “two-story” headlights, massive chrome-plated “kenguryatnik” (optional), wide wheels, expressive hood and false radiator grille give its appearance an elegant aggressiveness. In short, the silhouette of the Japanese pickup turned out very modern and interesting. The car holds well straight, primarily due to the independent front suspension. The rear suspension is made according to the traditional Pikapovsky scheme: a rigid axle with springs is a solid and reliable construction. Salon ascetic, but assembled quite high quality. Instead of separate front seats, the Isuzu has a one-piece sofa, judging by the number of seat belts, a three-seater.
The back of the front sofa D-Max reclines only forward - it is impossible to adjust the angle of its inclination. However, the one and only position of the back is chosen fairly optimally. Airbags, power windows, central locking, radio, heated seats - in Isuzu D-Max unfortunately all this is not, even at an additional cost. Poverty picking D-Max not too affected the ease of landing the driver and the ergonomics of his workplace. The steering wheel is adjusted to the angle of the column. The review is excellent. The front panel is simple and concise. There is only what it is impossible to do without.
Simple ventilation vents, the simplest climate control unit and the minimum “luxury” in the form of an air conditioning button. All this is made of light gray plastic with black inserts. In normal mode, the D-Max has a rear-wheel drive only. In difficult road conditions - for example, on snow or on a muddy primer - with one touch of a button you can connect the front axle.
It is connected rigidly, there is no center differential. Stop to go to the "4x4" mode is not necessary. It is enough for the car to move evenly and straightforwardly at a speed of no more than 100 km / h. The process of connecting the front wheels takes about five seconds - its completion is signaled by a light on the dashboard. For the assault on serious off-road, it is better to stop in advance and downshift.
On the go this can not be done. Over rough terrain, on the road with large potholes, mounds and pits Isuzu sneaks quietly, very confidently, without unnecessary jerks and twitching. The high ground clearance allows the D-Max to feel like a king on the roads. Since 2005, Thailand has offered a new all-wheel drive version of the D-Max Rodeo with a new generation of 3.0 liter R4 16V turbo diesel (146 hp). In the export 8-valve version, the engine develops 131 hp. In addition, there is a more affordable version with a 2.5-liter turbo diesel R4 16V (79 hp) and rear-wheel drive. Optional removable hard top for bodywork.
