RV FEATURE
The D-MAX is rated to tow up to 3500kg , with 350kg on the towbar . It ’ s kerb ( unladen ) weight is 2112kg while the GVM is 3100kg . This provides the vehicle with a payload capacity of 988kg – not bad . As always , though , it ’ s important to factor in the Gross Combination Mass ( GCM ). This vehicle is rated to 6000kg GCM . So , if you were to tow bang-on 3500kg worth of van ( including the ball weight ), the vehicle itself could be loaded to 2500kg – a payload allowance of 388kg . ( This calculation is based on figures provided by Isuzu and doesn ’ t account for the weight of the towbar and any other optional accessories you might add , which would have to be factored in as well .)
Of course , this equation also relies on the van being exactly 3500kg , which is unlikely . Tow 3400kg instead , for example , and the payload allowance of the vehicle would increase to 488kg , and so on .
In comparison to the lower-spec LS-U , which it is based on , the LS- U + gets a towbar receiver and tub liner as standard , and an additional 100kg worth of GVM as part of the 2022 update – particularly useful for caravanning .
As part of the 2020 overhaul of the D-MAX , Isuzu gave the vehicle new independent front suspension with a higher spring rate intended to improve composure and cornering stability . I towed numerous vans across a variety of terrain , from undulating gravel to mud to the open highway . At all times , the ride felt stable and predictable – which is what you want – even when towing close to 3000kg . Nothing about the way the D-MAX handled caused me concern – it shoulders the weight of large , heavy vans well .
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