IT might be the entry level single cab chassis from Isuzu Ute, but the 2020 D-MAX SX Hi-Ride (4×2) is perfect for the trades person set to kick start their career. It’s great too for anyone who needs a tray-back ute for home renovations.
Sporting a generous 2550mm x 1778mm tray, with 270mm side walls and a 980mm load height, the D-MAX SX Hi-Ride takes a 1294kg payload on the back without so much as a murmur.
Whether it be a large tool box or a stack of gyprock sheets, the tray will meet the most arduous of demands. Add in a 3500kg towing capacity and a GCM of 5850kg and it’s easy to see why the D-MAX SX is a wise choice.
The indestructible 3.0-litre turbo diesel produces a robust 130kW of power and 430Nm of torque from its super high pressure common rail direct injection engine. That translates to an efficient 7.9-litres/100km in fuel consumption from the 76-litre tank.
Crunch the numbers, and that translates to just over 900km before you need to start looking for a service station to refuel. Silver steel wheels come standard, with 245/70/16 All-Terrain tyres that should be good for 50,000km too. It has an automatic gearbox.
The ride comfort is sound and the steering is compliant and responsive on the 16-inch rims. The factory-fitted tow bar package ($1,098) is a box you want to tick when you order yours, and we’d recommend the reversing camera too.
It’s a $500 option but if the budget allows, you won’t regret the extra spend, especially when you’re wanting to hook up the boat to go for a quick ski, or back it up the the camper trailer, and you’re on your own.
The SX Hi-Ride single cab chassis isn’t flush with fancy features but when we tell you that pricing starts at $29,990 drive away, then let’s face it, there isn’t much to complain about. It’s got an Isuzu badge and a drive train that would withstand a wrecking ball.
The cabin is ‘tradie’ conscious with a heavy duty vinyl floor, sports leather steering wheel, cruise control, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth and iPod streaming, air conditioning, power windows, and key-less entry.
There’s also a 4-speaker sound system, steering wheel controls, and AUX and USB outlets. It does miss out on satellite navigation and telescopic adjustment for the steering wheel though.
There are however, cup holders for your morning coffee, and storage pockets too. Rubber floor mats are available too, are really durable, and should last forever. As an entry level work truck with arguably the best drive train in the segment, it’s pretty feature packed.
So, if you’re a small business owner or site supervisor, the 2020 Isuzu D-MAX SX Hi-Ride (4×2) could be the work ute for you. Be sure to get advice from your accountant as there are tax breaks for business vehicle purchases too.
It comes in seven colours, including Cobalt Blue Mica, Obsidian Grey Mica, Cosmic Black, Graphite Grey Metallic, Titanium Silver Metallic, Magnetic Red Mica, and the tradie favourite, Splash White (as tested).
It’s backed by a 6-year 150,000km warranty, 6-years roadside assist, and 7-years capped price servicing. More to the point, when it’s served its purpose, and it’s time for an upgrade, there’s always the D-MAX X-Runner.
Our test vehicle was provided by Isuzu Ute Australia. To find out more about the 2020 Isuzu D-MAX SX Hi-Ride (4×2) single cab chassis, contact your local Isuzu Ute dealer.
