2024 D-Max range features some mighty upgrades

Offering an extensive choice of body styles, tray configurations, and powertrain options, the 2024 D-MAX range has a total of 25 models with the X-RIDER joining the line up as a regular offering, after a successful introduction as a limited-edition model in 2023.

 

The upgrades are particularly wide ranging – with improvements to suspension and exterior and interior design, plus there’s changes to the infotainment, improvements to rough terrain handling abilities and tyre pressure monitoring.

 

Recognising that the LS-M has been a popular choice for families, the 2024 D-MAX LS-M Ute features a softer and more compliant rear standard-duty 3-leaf spring suspension tune.

 This update comes off the back of feedback received from customers who wanted improved comfort and handling when unladen, and improved rear suspension travel and articulation when off-roading.

Isuzu says its design team focused on uplifting the overall exterior aesthetic with premium textures and finishes.

The exterior features new bi-LED headlights (LS-M models and above) and sharper bodylines emanating from the latest evolution of Isuzu's signature horizontal bar grille.

A higher, squarer bonnet with longitudinal creases run the length of the front, channelling both airflow vision around and over the ute and towards the rear.

A set of prominent redesigned taillights redefine the rear of the D-MAX, with familiar horizontal bodywork creases expanding the width of the tailgate.

The updated X-TERRAIN and new X-RIDER feature a particularly bold exterior design, with both models sporting dark grey underbody spoilers, darkened accents and a menacing front bar design that ties in with Isuzu’s signature front grille.

Changes to the interior

Inside, the D-MAX has the latest in wireless connectivity and occupant ergonomics.

The doors, seats and dashboard, sport bolder accents and trims influenced by the Japanese art of Miura Origami paperfolding.

Occupant comfort remains the core to the Isuzu interior design philosophy, with supportive anti-vibration EVA foam-lined seats, trimmed in redesigned ‘layer-geometry’ embossed upholstery.

The instrument cluster has been redesigned with the 4.2-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) and dials revised with easier to read fonts and graphics. 

LS-U, LS-U+, and X-TERRAIN models sport a high-definition 7.0-inch MID, with the additional digital real estate offering the driver more information at a glance, such as tyre pressures and temperatures, and Sat-Nav directions.

Adopting the same ‘Hexa Pod’ design language seen across the interior, the spokes of the four-spoke wheel are trimmed in either matte silver, satin chrome or piano black, depending on model, while the centre of the wheel features a redefined design, better matching the premium look and feel as per the rest of the cabin.

With respect to the infotainment new 8.0-inch on SX, LS-M, and X-RIDER and 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreens on LS-U, LS-U+, and X-TERRAIN command the heart of the interior - a completely new system that addresses the feedback received by both customers and media.

All systems sport USB-C connectivity, voice recognition, DAB+ digital radio, and wired and wireless Apple CarPlay^®, and for the first time, wired and wireless Android Auto^™, for true wireless connectivity, no matter the smartphone.

With off-road enthusiasts in mind, an inclinometer and Terrain Command 4x4 drive modes have been integrated into the system - affording the driver the ability to view essential systems with a simple tap and swipe of the screen.

Keeping things simple and addressing commonly received feedback, a pair of tuning and volume dials have been added, improving tactility, functionality, and usability.

The 9.0-inch infotainment system is also equipped with Sat-Nav, ADAS setting controls, and an additional 3.0-Amp USB-C connection, as well as relaying vital tyre pressures and temperatures via the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

New – Rough Terrain Mode

To improve the off-road traction control, the  2024 D-MAX 4x4 models are equipped with Rough Terrain Mode (RTM), an electronic off-road traction control aid that maximises torque-transfer and driveability in technical, slippery, and rough conditions.

First debuting on the MU-X in 2021, RTM finely modulates brake force to individual wheels when slip is detected, proportioning torque to the wheels with the most grip, for optimal driveability, tractability, and torque-transfer to the terrain, with little to no loss to momentum.

The 2024 D-MAX sports the latest generation of RTM, which works in conjunction with the Rear Differential Lock; maximising traction with a locked rear axle and traction control across the front axle - ideal when wheel articulation or front axle slippage is at a maximum and traction control is needed to transfer drive to the terrain.

Updated – Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Another updated feature is the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

It displays real-time individual tyre pressures and temperatures via the 7.0-inch MID and 9.0-inch infotainment screen.

When tyres are deflated for off-roading, the system will produce a warning for 5 seconds before minimising into the background of the MID, giving the driver full control of the MID and infotainment system.

When tyres are reinflated back to placard pressures, the D-MAX will flash indicators and beep, indicating that the optimal tyre pressures have been reached.

All D-MAX models fitted with 18-inch wheels feature the updated Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Service Plus

Providing motorists with reassurance no matter where they are in Australia, all 2024 Isuzu D-MAX models are backed by a national network of over 160 dealer sites, as well as IUA’s updated Service Plus customer care program, encompassing a five-year Flat Price Servicing^> program at $449 per year/15,000km intervals, a six-year/150,000km warranty^{^}, and up to seven-years roadside assistance^<.

The revised five-year/75,000km Flat Price Servicing^> program was introduced in response to feedback received from the media and customers; aligning the maintenance program with the average ownership length of Isuzu owners surveyed and represents a 12% or $310 saving when compared with the five-year/75,000km maintenance schedule of a 23MY 3.0L D-MAX and MU-X.