Isuzu D-Max is ‘safest pick-up on the market’

The all-new Isuzu D-Max has become the first pick-up truck to score a maximum five-star safety rating in the tough new Euro NCAP crash tests.

Isuzu claims the D-Max delivers “strength and durability”, plus “smart new styling and impressive safety technology with improved off-road performance”.

It’s fitted with a wide range of safety features, including a comprehensive ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist Systems) package, which raises the bar for safety in the pick-up truck sector.

The D-Max is equipped with forward-facing stereo cameras and, as a result, every model comes with Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Speed Limiter and Lane Departure Warning & Prevention System.

As the only UK pick-up to feature a rear radar as standard on all double cabs, these models include Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Emergency Lane Keeping – which is a sector debut for this safety technology – as standard.

Increasing occupant safety further, a new driver’s knee airbag is standard on all models. Double cabs are now equipped with eight airbags as they are also fitted with a new centre airbag which offers additional protection to front seat occupants in the event of a side-on collision.

There is also a new E-Call system which dials the emergency services in the event of an accident. This is a mandatory requirement for the Euro NCAP 5-star rating as it automatically activates when the airbags are deployed. In the event of a less serious collision or to report an emergency incident, the driver can simply press the E-Call button on the overhead console.

Beneath the surface, an extra crossmember has been added to the durable ladder chassis which has been strengthened even further with certain sections up to 34% wider and 14% higher to increase rigidity and improve passenger safety, particularly during side impacts.

A revised suspension design increases stability and road holding while larger brakes have been fitted at the front and rear to reduce stopping distances, increase the service life and reduce brake fade.

The conditions for a 5-star rating on the latest Euro NCAP test are significantly higher than in previous years, with heavier and faster trolleys used in the collisions and the mandatory requirement of additional safety features.