2019 Isuzu range brings longer warranty, more safety tech

Isuzu UTE Australia has announced a number of upgrades, new options, and an additional limited-run model for its two-pronged 2019 lineup, which still consists of the D-Max ute and MU-X SUV. 

For the D-Max, most of the changes come higher up in the range, with all LS variants now receiving a new front grille insert and matte black B-pillar on dual cab models, while additionally, the LS-U and LS-T receive a restyled set of stronger Fiber-Reinforced Polymer side steps.

Furthermore, the LS-T adds even more extras such as keyless entry for 4×2 variants, matte black roof rails, and a new two-tone design for its 18-inch alloy wheels – which now come shod in 255/60 Toyo Open Country Highway Terrain tyres to better compliment the driving most owners are expected to do.

On the safety front, front parking sensors are now also available as an option for all LS models for $545, with there being the possibility to retrofit these front parking sensors to any MY17 or MY18 D-Max LS models, too.

Finally, the limited-edition D-Max X-Runner last seen for the 2017 model year has made a return for 2019. Previously based on the mid-grade LS-U, the new X-Runner uses the range-topping LS-T as a base.

Limited to just 645 units with only two colour choices – Pearl White or Magnetic Red – and priced at $54,990 drive-away, the X-Runner adds features such as unique 18-inch alloy wheel and metal scuff plate designs, contrasting red leather interior trim, red Isuzu badging inside and out, and a satin black sports bar.

It’s with the MU-X that the most notable changes have been made for this year, however, with the rugged seven-seater now sporting a retuned hydraulic power steering rack that should see the steering feel less heavy – a decision made based off customer feedback.

The most noteworthy upgrade, however, is the option of a $955 safety pack that finally adds Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, although AEB is still absent. Like the optional front parking sensors, which can also be had on the MU-X, these features are able to be retrofitted to models dating back to 2017.

A new 18-inch alloy wheel design – and road-focused 255/60 Bridgestone Dueler H/T rubber – has also been added to LS-U and LS-T variants, while nicer gloss black interior trim is standard across the range. Ambient interior lighting is also a new addition for the range-topping LS-T as well.

Unchanged, however, is the one trusty power plant used across Isuzu’s Australian range – a trusty and famously reliable 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel making 130kW and 430Nm, with a choice of six-speed automatic and manual transmissions, and rear or four-wheel drive depending on the model and variant. Although on that topic, it’s worth noting that all MU-Xs come with an automatic transmission as standard, with the manual LS-U having been quietly dropped from the range.

Isuzu’s already strong five-year warranty and capped-price servicing plan have been changed up for 2019 though, with the warranty now bumped up to six years or 150,000km of coverage, along with six years of complimentary roadside assistance.

Furthermore, the capped-price servicing plan has been increased to seven years/105,000km in duration, with the total cost over that period set at $3,600.

2019 Isuzu D-Max drive-away pricing

2019 Isuzu MU-X drive-away pricing