Isuzu’s venerable D-Max pickup is among the most rugged, dependable, and featureful trucks money can buy, suitable for both recreation and work. However, if it’s missing anything, the D-Max could do with a bit more panache and luxury, which is something that Isuzu has fixed with this new, limited-run STEEL Edition. Alas, Isuzu only plans on creating 250 examples of the new Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition, so you’ll have to hurry if you’re keen on getting one. Surprisingly, it also makes the D-Max STEEL Edition the most exclusive offering in Isuzu’s lineup! Now, it’s not a whole new truck, as the STEEL Edition model is built on the flagship D-Max V-Cross trim.
As such, you’ll still get the high-spec features and robust capability of the V-Cross, but with the unique styling features of the STEEL Edition. As far as limited-production cars go, it’s not pricey, with all those posh add-ons pushing the starting price of this D-Max STEEL Edition to a modest £42,695, now available through Isuzu’s UK dealerships. The D-Max STEEL Edition that we have here is finished in Steel Grey Mica, made more imposing with those dark grey wheel arches, as well as the rear arch extensions, and those pronounced roof rails. Elsewhere, the STEEL Edition also adds a dark grey Isuzu emblem, in addition to ‘STEEL’-branded graphics on the sides.
A Regular Isuzu D-Max, Now With More Luxury And Style
Aside from the ‘STEEL’-branded illuminated puddle lamps, you get even more unique elements when you step inside. There are tonnes more ‘STEEL’ branding embossed on the headrests and the luxury carpet mats, as well as the LED scuff plates. Moreover, you’ll find a slightly updated D-Max cabin that includes a neat 9-inch infotainment system, and 7-inch digital gauge cluster. Besides that, you may also notice that the D-Max STEEL Edition uses more premium materials, creating a more refined interior atmosphere. As for tech goodies, just like the flagship Isuzu D-Max V-Cross trim, there’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional wireless charger.
On that note, the new D-Max STEEL Edition brings with it several new safety features that we didn’t get previously. This includes Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Turn Assist, as well as an Attention Assist system. Otherwise, several other ADAS systems have been enhanced, such as Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist, and Autonomous Emergency Braking features. As such, while the main selling point of the STEEL Edition is to showcase more style in what is otherwise a utilitarian, workhorse pickup truck, it’s awesome to know that Isuzu still remains committed to safety, which is proven by the fact that this has a five‑star Euro NCAP rating.
Tried And Tested Performance, Durability, And Towing
Nonetheless, despite the addition of all these luxurious niceties and creature comforts, this is the D-Max we’re talking about; a proper work truck, down to the core. Seeing that the STEEL Edition model is built atop the V-Cross platform, this means that we’re getting Isuzu’s superb, rock-solid 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine. It outputs a modest 164PS, though being a diesel, you could enjoy a meaty 360Nm of torque. This is then paired exclusively with a 6-speed auto, so you won’t find a stick shift here. That high torque figure is fantastic if you’re planning to tow with your STEEL Edition, as it retains the D-Max’s class-leading 3.5-tonne towing capacity.
On top of that, it features a 1-tonne payload, so you could also stuff quite a fair bit of cargo in the bed. For challenging terrain, some other neat features that the STEEL Edition inherits from the D-Max V-Cross include a Rough Terrain Mode for improved traction on slippery ground or uneven surfaces. Aside from that, there’s the 4WD Shift-on-the-fly system and rear differential lock; a couple of potential lifesavers if you’re going off-road. Alternatively, if you’re driving into a river, it has an impressive 800mm wading depth. So, despite this STEEL Edition model being a rather posh truck, it still has everything that we know and love from the regular Isuzu D-Max!
