New Car: 2011 Isuzu D-Max LE III

Isuzu Ute Australia is marking three years of local sales with the release of a limited edition version of its 4x4 one tonne ute.

Available in two colours only: Starry Black mica or pearlescent Silky white, the Isuzu D-MAX LE III

follows the earlier release of D-MAX Pearler and D-MAX LE II limited edition models, which marked one and two year milestones respectively for the specialist ute distributor.

The LE III is based on Isuzu’s top-spec LS-U 4x4 crew ute; the most popular variant in the Thai-built, 10-model range available locally, which also includes single and space cab as well as 4x2 variants.

Giving it a sporty look from the front is a new, chrome-look, egg-crate grille and matching bonnet protector strip, together with silver and chrome front bumper over-rider and fog lights with frosted chrome bezels.

There’s also ‘Limited Edition III” decals and custom striping along the body, slim-line side steps with brushed alloy step inserts, and 16 x 7 inch alloy wheels with machine-faced spokes and rim and gunmetal inner detail, shod with all-terrain tyres.

At the rear the LE III is distinguished by a stylish single-hoop chrome sports bar with integrated brake light, black tub liner with accessible tie-down hooks, taillights with chrome ‘guards’ and a rear camera.

Unique touches inside include a six-speaker Kenwood touchscreen multimedia unit with sat nav, reversing camera view, DVD, as well as USB, iPod, iPhone and Bluetooth connectivity.

The standard seats are trimmed in charcoal leather with ‘DMAX’ embossing on the front backrests, and there’s custom carpet mats.

As with other 4x4 D-MAX LS-U crew cab variants, the LE III comes equipped with air-con, ABS with EBD, dual airbags, power windows and side mirrors, cruise control, remote entry, chrome rear step bumper, and alloy spare wheel.

Available with manual or automatic transmission, the special edition ute also comes standard with rear LSD, three tonne towing capacity, 225mm ground clearance, and push buttons controls for 2WD/4WD/low range selection.

The D-MAX LS-U crew cab ute normally starts at $42,500 (manual), so the LE III model priced at $45,500 and fitted “with around $8000 retail fitted value worth of unique features and accessories” represents a saving of up to $5000.

“With its sporty flair and cool kit, LE III will extend D-MAX’s appeal beyond its established popularity among tradies, farmers, caravanners and fleets to a younger, more urbane set of drivers,” Isuzu Ute Australia’s general manager of sales, Paul Vuko, said.

Thanks to: Car Point