The Isuzu D-Max EV is among the first electric midsize pickup trucks from a legacy brand launched globally. It is already available at European dealers and is set to go on sale in the UK in February 2026.
A few weeks ago, we spent some time with the new electric pickup truck, which will compete with the Toyota Hilux EV, and here are the key observations we made:
Design
The D-Max EV features conventional proportions that’s generally associated with conversion-type BEVs. Save for blue accents on the front grille and an EV badge on the front quarter panels and the tailgate, it mirrors the design of the standard D-Max.
A large grille covers most of the front fascia, and it is stylized with two horizontal bars in the upper part and triangular motifs in the bottom.
Angular headlamps incorporate an inverted L-shaped light guide and three dashes in the upper part, both forming the DRL. A chunky skid plate and a power dome on the hood add to the rugged styling at the front.
A high ground clearance and pronounced wheel arches featuring black cladding continue the tough look along the sides. 18-inch six-spoke alloy wheels, a sleek glasshouse, and a sport bar lend the pickup truck a sportier look. At the rear, the vertical tail lights feature a three-level L-shaped motif.
Interior
The Isuzu D-Max EV has a simple and utilitarian interior that looks somewhat spartan compared to its closest rival, the Toyota Hilux Electric.
Isuzu manufactures the electric pickup truck in Extended Cab and Double Cab (Crew Cab) versions. The former features four seats and the latter five seats, although Isuzu gives a two-seat van option for both of them in select markets.
The D-Max EV has plenty of useful features, including a 7-inch driver information display, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB Type-C ports, and an 8-speaker sound system. Isuzu equips it with comfort features like heated front seats and a dual-zone automatic climate control system as well.
Experience in the Isuzu D-Max EV
For a six-footer, ingress and egress in the D-Max EV feel typical for a pickup. Taller occupants may brush their thighs against the steering wheel during entry and exit. The foot pedal area is usable, though a larger dead pedal would improve long-haul comfort.
The cabin carries a commercial-vehicle character, and buyers paying nearly GBP 60,000 are bound to be disappointed with the feel. It offers white contrast stitching and a small section of softer-touch material on the top of the dashboard. Most surfaces are hard, textured plastics aligned with the vehicle’s work-focused attitude.
Front-seat comfort is solid for a six-footer. Headroom is generous. Under-thigh support is strong, and back and shoulder support are supportive. An adjustable headrest helps with positioning. All-around visibility is good due to the large glass area. A-pillar grab handles assist when climbing out.
Rear access is helped by side steps. With the front seat set for a six-footer, rear knee clearance is limited, and another six-footer cannot sit comfortably behind a tall driver. The rear bench places occupants in a relatively upright posture, typical of commercial pickups. Adjustable rear headrests improve comfort. A small coat hook adds practicality.
The fold-down center armrest takes effort to deploy but includes cupholders. Rear passengers also receive air vents and a mobile charging port. A center tunnel limits middle-seat foot space, reducing practicality for three across.
Shoe space under the front seat improves foot placement, but the restricted knee room makes the rear seat better suited for shorter passengers or shorter trips.
Specifications
In the UK, Isuzu has introduced the D-Max EV in a dual-motor 4WD configuration, with 140 kW (188 hp) and 325 Nm (240 lb.-ft.) of torque. This setup gives the electric pickup truck a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 10.1 seconds and a top speed of over 80 mph.
The D-Max EV offers a payload capacity of over 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) and a towing capacity of 3,500 kg (7,716 lb). Isuzu says it is quite capable in off-roading, too, with approach and departure angles of 30.5 degrees and 24.2 degrees, respectively, a ground clearance of 210 mm (8.3 in.), and a water wading depth of up to 600 mm (23.6 in.).
A 66.9 kWh battery pack powers the two motors, and it takes 1 hour for a 20-80% DC charging session. When fully charged, it delivers a WLTP range of 163 miles.
Price
Also See: First Look: We check out the Scout Terra truck coming in EV & EREV versions
The Isuzu D-Max EV’s prices in the UK range from GBP 59,995 (USD 82,783) to GBP 62,495 (USD 86,237), excluding VAT. Compared to a decently well-equipped D-Max diesel which is priced at GBP 37,645 (USD 51,948) excluding VAT, we’re not sure if many buyers will be tempted to upgrade to the EV.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
