2024 Isuzu D-Max facelift revealed

The facelifted 2024 Isuzu D-Max ute has debuted in Thailand, ahead of a likely local debut in the coming months.

It is headlined by a new-look front end, updated tail-lights, and minor interior revisions, with some features borrowed from its MU-X off-road SUV sibling.

“We are unable to comment on future model plans,” said an Isuzu Ute Australia spokesperson.

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“However, Isuzu Ute Australia will continue to monitor the market to ensure that any local product updates meet the Australian market’s requirements, before committing to any changes locally.”

The mid-life facelift for the current-generation D-Max – introduced four years ago in October 2019 – brings redesigned headlights, a new grey or ‘black chrome’ grille, and a new lower bumper with an integrated air vent to improve aerodynamics.

Other exterior changes include updated “triple-armour” LED tail-lights, new wheel designs, and more pronounced flared wheel arches for the flagship D-Max V-Cross, sold in Australia as the X-Terrain.

Inside, the updated D-Max receives steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, ventilated front seats, a 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster – up from 4.2-inch – and front and rear USB-C charge ports, replacing USB-A.

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While the central 7- or 9-inch touchscreen remains unchanged, it runs updated infotainment software with wireless Android Auto connectivity, replacing wired-only support and joining wireless Apple CarPlay.

While the updated screen sizes match the new Mitsubishi Triton, the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok twins are available with a portrait 12-inch infotainment system and a full-digital 12.4-inch instrument cluster.

The Chinese-built D-Max features a digital instrument cluster, a widescreen infotainment system, rear disc brakes, coil spring suspension, and a wireless phone charger – but these changes have not been applied in Thailand, where the D-Max is sourced for Australia.

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The updated D-Max also features simplified, touch-sensitive controls, volume and tuning dials replacing buttons, and a new brown/black upholstery finish in Thailand with bronze-coloured trim.

First seen in the MU-X, the D-Max receives a ‘rough terrain mode’, which is said to sharpen the brakes and transfer torque to the wheels with the most traction when rock-climbing. It can also automatically engage the rear differential lock.

While there appears to be no change to the active safety suite above that is currently available in Australia, Isuzu claims the front camera module has a “wider and more accurate” view.

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There are no revisions to the D-Max powertrains, with 110kW/350Nm 1.9-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel or 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre options, a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, and two-wheel-drive or part-time four-wheel-drive.

The updated 2024 Isuzu D-Max will launch imminently in Thailand. It will likely arrive in Australia in the coming months, with official information due soon.

Similar updates for the related Mazda BT-50 ute and the Isuzu MU-X off-road SUV will likely appear later.