ISUZU HAS ANNOUNCED a new entry-level addition to the D-Max range, the SX 4×4 crew cab ute, which Isuzu Ute Australia says will save buyers around $1800.

The D-Max SX 4×4 crew cab ute is the first update to the D-Max range since its Australian launch last year. (See TMR’s D-Max review here.)

Powered by the same 120kW and 360Nm 3.0 litre common-rail turbo-diesel engine used across the D-Max range, the new SX ute also features the same 225mm ground clearance, ultra-low range crawler first gear with anti-stall, and 16×7-inch wheels with 245/70 tyres.

“Isuzu has a 70-year history of building trucks big and small and diesel engines and it shows in D-Max, which is a true truck built compact, with all the hidden engineering and reliability strengths built in and some class-leading attributes,” said Hitoshi Kono, Managing Director of Isuzu Ute Australia.

Driving aids and creature comforts in the SX include air-conditioning, ABS with EBD, LSD, power door locks, remote entry, CD/FM/AM MP3 audio and electric windows.

A steel plate sump and transfer case guards, fuel tank shield, push-button 2WD/4WD/low range selection and shift-on-the-fly up to 100km/h between 2WD and 4WD also figure among the SX’s features.

The SX ute has also been fitted with dual airbags as standard.

The Isuzu D-Max SX cab crew ute is available now, for an MLP (Manufacturer’s List Price inc. GST) of $42,200 driveway (depending on state, dealer location and buyer profile).