The third-generation Isuzu D-Max (codename TFR for 4x2 versions and TFS for 4x4s) marks a major turning point for the Japanese manufacturer. Launched in late 2019 and arriving in most markets in 2020, it abandons its purely rustic pickup image to align with modern standards of comfort, technology, and safety (scoring 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash test). It also shares its platform and engines with the third-generation Mazda BT-50. Although it has become more refined inside with the integration of driving aids (ADAS) and touchscreens, it retains its pure, hard-working utility DNA: a reinforced ladder chassis, a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, and a payload exceeding one tonne. It is a vehicle designed by a truck manufacturer, which is evident in its overall robustness.
The third-generation Isuzu D-Max is a pragmatic and extremely rational choice. Designed by an industrial vehicle specialist, it shines with its mechanical reliability and foolproof robustness. While the European market has to settle for the 1.9L (very valiant but a bit lacking compared to competing V6s), markets benefiting from the 3.0L enjoy one of the best pickups in the world. It is a vehicle to buy with your eyes closed for professional, agricultural, or intensive leisure use (raids, towing). For purely urban or peri-urban use when unladen, its firm comfort and the sensitivity of its DPF make it less relevant than a traditional SUV.
| Oil change | £90 – 160 |
| Timing chain | £650 – 1 200 (si remplacement nécessaire, rare) |
| Clutch | £850 – 1 500 |
| Complete brakes | £300 – 600 |
| Estimated annual budget | £650 – 1 200 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.