The Isuzu D-Max is a popular pickup truck that offers several features that set it apart from other vehicles in its class. In fact, in 2022 the D-Max received a five-star safety rating from Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).
This is in part due to Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS) technology. A set of advanced safety features designed to aid the driver and improve the overall safety of Isuzu vehicles. IDAS uses a combination of sensors, cameras, and other technologies to provide real-time information about the vehicle’s surroundings and help the driver make safer driving decisions.
Although some of the features vary by model, here are some of the key safety features of the Isuzu D-Max:
Braking: ABS and AEB
The Isuzu D-Max has anti-lock brakes (ABS) to help prevent wheels from locking up while braking. ABS sensors monitor the speed of each wheel when the brakes are applied. If the system detects that a wheel is about to lock, it reduces brake pressure on that wheel, allowing it to continue rotating while slowing the vehicle. This assists the driver in maintaining steering control and stability, particularly during sudden stops or on slick roads.
The Isuzu D-Max also has an Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system that monitors and detects obstacles in the vehicle’s surroundings using sensors/cameras. The system alerts the driver to a potential collision and automatically applies the brakes if the driver fails to respond.
*Only available on higher spec models
Staying in Control: ESC and TSC
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is a standard safety feature on the Isuzu D-Max. It is intended to assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle during difficult driving conditions such as sudden swerves, tight turns, or slippery roads. It improves the Isuzu D-Max’s stability and handling, especially in difficult driving conditions.
Sensors in the vehicle monitor the vehicle’s speed, steering angle, and acceleration. If the system detects that the vehicle is losing traction or skidding, it will apply brakes to individual wheels and/or reduce engine power to assist the driver in regaining control. This reduces the risk of an accident by preventing the vehicle from spinning out or veering off the road.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC) is an ESC extension. The system monitors the vehicle for potential sway and then reduces the vehicle’s speed to assist in safely regaining control of the trailer.
Preventing rolling: HSA and HDC
The Isuzu D-Max comes with Hill Start Assist (HSA), and with Hill Descent Control (HDC) on select models. HSA is designed to help the driver start the vehicle on an uphill slope without rolling back, making it easier and safer to start on inclines.
When the driver releases the brake pedal and presses the accelerator pedal while starting on a hill, HSA uses the vehicle’s brake system to hold the vehicle in place for up to two seconds, allowing the driver to switch from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal without the vehicle rolling backwards. This can help the driver feel more confident and in control when starting on an uphill slope, especially in heavy traffic or on steep inclines.
Hill Descent Control (HDC) is designed to help the driver maintain a steady speed and control when driving down steep hills or slopes. This can be helpful when driving off-road or on rough terrain.
When the driver engages HDC, the system uses the vehicle’s brakes to maintain a slow and steady speed as the vehicle descends the hill, without the driver having to continuously apply the brakes. This can help reduce the risk of skidding or losing control of the vehicle, especially on steep or slippery slopes.
Airbags
The Isuzu D-Max has a variety of airbags that assist in the protection of passengers in the event of a collision. The exact number and type of airbags may vary depending on the specific model and year, but typically the D-Max comes with the following airbags:
- Driver and front passenger airbags: These airbags are in the steering wheel and dashboard, respectively, and are designed to protect the driver and front passenger in the event of a frontal collision.
- Side airbags: Some models of the D-Max may also have side airbags located in the front seats. These airbags are designed to protect the occupants from side-impact collisions.
- Curtain airbags: The D-Max may also have curtain airbags located along the sides of the roof that deploy in the event of a side-impact or rollover collision. These airbags provide additional protection for the occupants’ heads and reduce the risk of injury.
On the move: FCW and LDW
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a forward-facing camera or radar sensor to detect the distance between the Isuzu D-Max and the vehicle in front of it. If the distance between the two vehicles decreases to an unsafe level, the system will activate an alert, giving the driver time to take corrective action.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses cameras or sensors to detect the position of the vehicle within the lane, and if it detects that the vehicle is drifting out of the lane without the use of turn signals, it alerts the driver with a visual and/or audible warning. The LDW helps prevent accidents caused by unintentional drifting or swerving out of the lane possibly due to driver inattention or fatigue. This feature can be turned off.
*Only available on the V-Cross
Reversing: BSM and RCTA
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) uses sensors to detect objects in the blind spot areas behind and to the sides of the vehicle. When an object is detected, the system alerts the driver with a visual or audible warning, allowing the driver to take appropriate action.
In the Isuzu D-Max, the BSM system is integrated with the side mirrors, which feature a small indicator light that illuminates when an object is detected in the blind spot. The system works in conjunction with the Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) system, which uses sensors to detect if there is a vehicle approaching from the side when the driver is reversing and alerts the driver.
*On high spec models only
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Overall, the Isuzu D-Max is kitted out with several safety features that are intended to keep drivers and passengers safe in different driving conditions.
It is important to remember that the safety features are not a substitute for safe driving practices, and drivers should always pay attention to their surroundings and drive defensively.
Chat to the team at Autoworld if you would like to find out more about the features of the Isuzu D-Max.