WapCar COTY 2021: Isuzu D-Max – Our favourite Pick-up of the Year

It's that time again when we award the most impressive cars of 2021.

Whilst our discerning readers will get the final say on the majority of this year's awards, the Editors' Choice Awards honour the team's personal favourites of 2021. 

Also read: WapCar Car Of The Year 2021 – Vote for the best cars of 2021

Thus, our pick for the hotly-contested Pick-up Truck Of The Year award goes to the 2021 Isuzu D-Max. 

Why? Put simply, no other truck offers quite as much ability and overall value at its price tag. 

Also read: The all-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max is so popular, they've decided to launch it again

Superb features and priced to please

With pick-up trucks fast becoming an alternative lifestyle vehicle for many - there's been a greater emphasis on creature comforts and safety equipment. 

Here's where the array of standard equipment, in not just the range-topping D-Max 3.0L X-Terrain but even the less expensive variants are most impressive. 

Prices range from RM 100,999 for the D-Max 1.9 4x2 AT Plus (entry-level automatic variant) to RM 142,438 for the D-Max 3.0L X-Terrain which makes it cheaper, variant-to-variant than its closest rivals, the Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Triton and Ford Ranger.

A complete suite of ADAS features

A major highlight of the 2021 Isuzu D-Max has been its suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems or ADAS functions. 

With several first-in-class features, the D-Max offers safety features that are comparable to family SUVs costing substantially more, these include:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Turn Assist (FCTA with braking)
• Pedal Misapplication Mitigation
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop/Go function
• Automatic High Beam (AHB)

Note that no other truck in the segment offers such a comprehensive safety suite as the D-Max, especially at its price tag.

Rock-solid dependability

There's little that needs to be said about the reliability and fuel economy of the Isuzu D-Max.

Isuzu's 13 years of participation in the Borneo Safari Expedition and multiple fuel economy records are a testament to just how well engineered their vehicles are.

Offering two engine variants, the D-Max is also perfectly suited to cater to a wide range of pick-up truck customers. 

For the budget-conscious, there is the 150 PS / 350 Nm 1.9-litre TD Blue Power turbodiesel.

Whilst the more powerful 190 PS / 450 Nm 3.0-litre TD Blue Power offers commanding power which is on par with the best in its segment. 

Another major improvement in our opinion has been the 6-speed manual/automatic transmission which has greatly improved performance and driveability. 

A paradigm shift in design 

When experienced in flesh - the D-Max 3.0L X-Terrain exudes muscular character courtesy of its stylish exterior and overall stance. 

From its sporty front end, beefy flanks (topped off with 18-inch wheels) modern rear - courtesy of an integrated rear bumper - it's a vehicle you will notice on the roads. 

Add to that, the sublime Valencia Orange colour which is nicely contrasted with gloss grey details around the car - we think it has been done just right.

Stylish and quiet on the inside

Though functional and solid, the interior of the second-generation D-Max lacked execution.

This is another area that the current, third-generation D-Max has excelled in. In fact, we'd go as far as saying it's the best designed interior in the segment currently.

From its modern design, quality materials, superbly designed infotainment system and tactile switchgear, the D-Max's cockpit is a pleasant and cossetting place to be in. 

Contrasting leather and trim colours further give it a premium touch.

Peace of mind warranty

Whilst the majority of the D-Max variants get a 5-year/100,000 km warranty, the 3.0L X-Terrain gets a class-leading 7-year/unlimited mileage warranty. 

Thus, it's another reason we believe the D-Max befits the title of this year's best pick-up truck. 

Also read: Review: 2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 X-Terrain - A better 'Hailak' than the Hilux?