D-MAX muscles in

The newest member of the workhorse brigade rolled into the motor show today with no less than 11 models in its diesel-powered ranks.

The Isuzu D-Max, range, which starts from a competitive $23,300, runs a familial 120kW/360Nm 3.0-litre common-rail turbodiesel engine encased in various ute bodies and driven wheels.

Workhorses available are one-tonne single cab, dual cab, ute, and cab/chassis bodies, paired with a choice of 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains.

Standard specification is high, with all models featuring air-conditioning, a limited-slip diff (LSD), high-riding suspension and under-body protection.

Flared guards shadow 16-inch rims and high-profile 245/70 rubber, which assist the long 3.2m wheelbase in its load-carrying duties.

Three trims of EX, SX and LS are offered, with the mid-spec model expected to be the volume seller.

Unfortunately, the base EX does not receive anti-lock brakes (ABS) and dual front airbags, which is constituted for a bare-bones 4X4 ‘farmer’s friend’ setup.

The SX is expected to be the volume seller, with standard ABS and airbags, power windows and remote central locking.

The LS reaches $42,550, and adds the auto as an option, cruise control, alloys, fog lights, rear step bumper, cloth and leather trim, trip computer, and additional cubbies for storage. The spec itself is also split into three: LS 2x4 and LS-U 4x4, and tough off-road 4x4 LS-M version.

The 4x2 models claim 7.9L/100km as its best combined consumption, with the 4x4s starting from 8.1L/100km.

In a recent 1528km economy drive from Birdsville to Brisbane, the LS 4x2 manual managed 4.69L/100km, which is a promising start to its brand in Oz.

Now, it just has to weather the Australian environment, and the high expectation of its drivers.