2023 Isuzu D-Max pricing and specs: Watch out Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, updated Isuzu ute changes detailed!

The updated 2023 Isuzu D-Max range will see a number of customer-led changes, with the Japanese ute and SUV brand confirming adjustments across the pick-up and cab-chassis line-up.

Isuzu Ute Australia says the entire 24-variant model range for 2023 has been "refined with new features, new variants, and a refreshed exterior design and colour palette".

The styling changes are noticeable, with a new "signature" grille design, different new wheel designs and interior changes too - but the biggest change for customers is the broader availability of the more affordable small-output diesel engine on SX models.

As with the previous version, the D-Max is available with the aforementioned 1.9-litre turbo-diesel (110kW and 350Nm), and the storied 3.0-litre turbo-diesel with 140kW/450Nm. Both engines have the option of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.

However, new for the 2023 D-Max line-up is the choice of a 4x4 version with the 1.9-litre - previously, the smaller-output diesel was only available in 4x2 rear-wheel drive on the SX cab-chassis. 

Indeed, the 1.9L is now offered in 4x2 SX crew-cab-chassis with an auto transmission, 4x2 SX crew-cab pick-up with auto, or 4x4 SX crew-cab pick-up with auto.

All 2023 models also have been updated for their towing tech, with the D-Max now offering an auto-disabling function for blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, to stop the system from activating when a caravan, trailer or horse float is being hauled.

Let's run through the changes across the line-up, spec-by-spec.

All 2023 models have updated towing tech.

The 2023 Model Year (23MY) D-Max SX now sports a redesigned grille in two-tone black, and pick-up models now get "Tailgate Assist", a system that dampens the tailgate actuation thanks to an added gas strut. The dual-cab versions also score a USB port added. As mentioned above, SX comes in 4x2 and 4x4, and a variety of bodystyles. Pricing details are below for all versions.

Next up is the LS-M, which gets similar changes to the grille and easy-drop tailgate for pick-ups, while it also scores a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels (finished in light grey), and dark grey metallic fog-light surrounds, reworked interior upholstery (cloth). LS-M grades are dual-cab 4x4 only with the choice of cab-chassis or pick-up.

The X-Terrain gets new leather-accented seat trim with red stitching.

The LS-U and LS-U+ grade models score a new-look grille in two-tone grey and chrome, new-look 18-inch alloy wheels, redesigned leather-seat trim for LS-U+ (cloth in LS-U), the LS-U now scores heated door mirrors, and they all score LED rear lights with dark great trim as well as the new front fog-light surrounds, too. You can get the LS-U in 4x2 and 4x4, cab-chassis and pick-up.

The range-topping X-Terrain gains different 18-inch dark grey alloy wheels, while the dark grey finish carries over to the new grille, side steps, door and tailgate handles, roof rails and fender flares, plus the LED tail-light surrounds and front fog-light finishers. Inside, the X-Terrain gets new leather-accented seat trim with red stitching.

The new grille has a dark grey finish.

All versions of the D-Max with the 1.9-litre engine are rated for up to 3.0-tonne braked towing, while the 3.0-litre engine is good to tow up to 3.5 tonnes braked. 

Paint finishes include more colour options than before, with Mineral White remaining the only no-cost option. The rest incur a $650, and they include: Basalt Black mica, the newly added Neptune Blue mica, Mercury Silver metallic, the new X-Terrain-specific Granite Grey metallic, Moonstone White Pearl (new, not available on SX), Magnetic Red mica (not available on SX) and the signature hue for X-Terrain only, Volcanic Amber metallic.

Dealers should see 23MY stock in showrooms from December. 

2023 Isuzu D-Max pricing - MSRP (drive-away specials in brackets)