Isuzu D-Max LS-U Trayback Dual Cab 4WD Ute 2023 Review

D-Max LS-U Trayback – A few weeks ago I took the long-term test Isuzu D-Max LS-U out to the farm for a few days. We had some fencing repairs to do, and it was a great opportunity to go for a longer drive.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback 4WD Ute at farm 3

There have been a few flash floods along the creek bed lately and the bank has washed away and taken the fence with it. Now fencing isn’t one of my favourite things to do. In fact, in my list of top 100 things I enjoy doing, fencing comes in around number 499.

However, it needed to be done.

The drive out was relaxed and comfortable. Even though the LS-U misses out on several of the comfort features like heated leather seats, the fabric seats thankfully have additional electronic lumbar support. They are also warm, which was a bonus as it was minus 2 in the early mornings.

The dual cab LS-U trayback D-Max was right at home on the farm. Plenty of room inside, dual range 4WD system, powerful and robust engine, and a large tray for all the gear.

This trip showed exactly how versatile the D-Max LS-U Trayback is.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U tray back dual cab Ute is priced from around $59,500 plus the usual costs

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback 4WD Ute profile 2

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What is good?

  • 4WD and towing ability
  • Ride and handling
  • Class leading safety features

What is not so good?

  • Missed heated front seats on cold mornings
  • Windscreen washers in wiper blades
  • Would love 150kW/500Nm

Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback 4WD Ute at farm profile

Final thoughts Isuzu D-Max LS-U Trayback

I’ve said it many times. The D-Max is a robust, reliable and practical 4WD Ute.

The LS-U Trayback Dual Cab 4WD Ute is perhaps the best mix between recreational and work Ute.

It’s comfortable and spacious inside, but has more than 1000kg payload.

Ideal for worksites and family holidays.

The D-Max will tow 3500kg with ease, go anywhere you will sensibly want to go off road and do it in comfort. All D-Max vehicles come with the tow assembly installed. All you have to do is add the hitch tongue you want.

Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback 4WD Ute at farm engine

Isuzu D-Max

Model

D-MAX LS-U Trayback 

Model Price $59,500 MLP*
Engine 3.0L 4 Cyl Turbo Diesel Euro 5
Drivetrain 6 Sp Sports AT Dual range 4WD
Power 140kW @ 3,600rpm
Torque 450Nm @ 1600-2600rpm
Safety Five-star ANCAP (tested Sept 2022)
0-100kmh / Top Speed TBA
CO2 Emissions 207 g/km
Economy ADR 8.0L/100km / 76L capacity
Economy on test 9.0L/100k
Max Range 1101km
Servicing 12Mth / 15,000km 7 Yrs. Capped Price
Warranty 6yr/ 150,000 km
Roadside Assist 7Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excludes statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options.

RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback 4WD Ute interior front seats

Overall Rating LS-U 

85/100

Behind the Wheel 8
Comfort 8
Equipment 8
Performance 8
Ride and Handling 8
Practicality 8
Fit for Purpose 8
AWD/Towing Capability* 10 (4WD 5/5 Towing 5/5)
Technology/connectivity 9
Value for Money 10

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback 4WD Ute at farm tray 2

Dimensions

 Isuzu D-Max LS-U Trayback

Overall Length 5285mm
Wheelbase 3125mm
Width 1870mm
Height 1800mm
Wheels 17×7.0 Steel
Tyres 255/65 R17
Max ground clearance Up to 235mm
Wading Depth 800mm
Approach 30.0 degrees
Rampover 23.9 degrees
Departure angle 27 degrees
Turning Circle KTK 12.5m
Tub/Tray Length 1820mm
Tub/ Tray width / arches 1780mm
Tub/Tray Depth 255mm
Kerb Weight 1970kg
Payload (kg) 1130kg
GVM (kg) 3100kg
GCM 6000kg
Towing Capacity 3500kg
Tow Ball rating 350kg

Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback 4WD Ute rear

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About Rob Fraser 2508 Articles
Rob Fraser – General dogsbody & Director Rob is the founder of the business. He constantly mutters something about way too many red wines one evening being to blame. Often known for taking the 4WD in the driveway over the sports car, he has travelled pretty much everywhere in Australia and when he is bored goes for a drive. He first learned to drive on the farm in a left hand drive WW11 Jeep when he was 11, and was hooked on 4WDriving way back then. In addition to 4WD he is an avid motoring enthusiast and has maintained a strong interest in the industry ever since his teens. He has owned way too many cars in his time as well. Having previously lived at the top of corporate life he retired in 2000 and hasn’t put a suit and tie on since. Cars are his passion so why not have a business doing what you love he figures. He has towed either a caravan or camper trailer to most parts of Australia, has run guided tours for camper trailers’ and instructed drivers in off road towing.