Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ 2023 review: snapshot
The LS-U+ grade in the D-Max range sits above the LS-U and just under the range topping X-Terrain, with a list price of $63,500.
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The VW Amarok Style kicks off from $66,990, before on-road costs, and – as with all the new and second-generation Amaroks – is based on the T6.2 Ford Ranger. They share the same platform, body structure and drivetrain.
That said, the sheetmetal is unique, as is much of the interior, while the steering and suspension tune also differ. And the VW is built in South Africa, not Thailand like Australian-bound Rangers.
The Style offers two engine choices. The first is a 154kW/500Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder 'BiTurbo' twin-turbo diesel dubbed TDI500, or – for $4000 more – there's a 184kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 diesel called the TDI600. Both use a 10-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. But only the latter engine ushers in permanent 4WD, as opposed to selectable 4WD.
The new Amarok offers over 20 fresh driver-assist systems that finally brings in Autonomous Emergency Braking, as well as nine airbags as standard. The Style also boasts tech like a blind-spot monitor, lane keep/departure, swerve-steer assist, traffic sign recognition and rear-cross traffic alert.
You'll find that all new Amaroks are fitted with LED headlights, alloy wheels, DAB+ digital radio, a rear centre armrest, adaptive cruise control, digitalised instrumentation, a portrait touchscreen with voice-command, a reverse camera, front and rear parking sensors, wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, rain-sensing wipers, auto on/off headlights, side steps, a factory-fitted towbar, electric folding mirrors, tailgate with lift-assist and roof rails.
But above the Life grade's fog lights, auto-lock tailgate and rear privacy glass, the Style includes matrix LED headlights, keyless entry/start, an insulated windscreen, dual-zone climate control with rear seat air vents, ambient lighting, a stitched leather-like dashboard cover, powered/heated front seats, a 12.0-inch touchscreen, a 360-degree area-view camera, a rear sports bar, cargo bed liner, alarm, automatic park assist and 18-inch alloys. As such, it's gunning for the Ranger Sport 4x4.
Vehicle | Specs | Price* | |
---|---|---|---|
Core TDI405 4Motion | 2.0L, Diesel, 6 SP AUTO | $52,990 | 2023 Volkswagen Amarok 2023 Core TDI405 4Motion Pricing and Specs |
Aventura TSI452 4Motion | 2.3L, —, 10 SP AUTO | $79,990 | 2023 Volkswagen Amarok 2023 Aventura TSI452 4Motion Pricing and Specs |
Aventura TDI600 4Motion | 3.0L, Diesel, 10 SP AUTO | $79,990 | 2023 Volkswagen Amarok 2023 Aventura TDI600 4Motion Pricing and Specs |
Life TDI500 4Motion | 2.0L, Diesel, 10 SP AUTO | $56,990 | 2023 Volkswagen Amarok 2023 Life TDI500 4Motion Pricing and Specs |
$70,990
Lowest price, based on new car retail price