I have a 2009 Isuzu D-Max. It’s a Hi-Lander (raised version) and an extended cab.
3.0L, RWD but with a diff lock and an upgraded turbo.
It’s our family ‘car’ so going to the beach, shopping, school run etc. Also done a couple of road trips of approx 3,000km each. It’s used for transporting bikes, helping neighbours move stuff, getting home in monsoon season (“quick, google the max wading depth”) and occasionally, driving home “the bumpy way” when the boys are in the back and the wife’s not!
In the three years we’ve had it, it’s needed a fuel pump and filter. The big pipe from the exhaust system to the turbo needed to be replaced and a rubber/metal part of the front steering/suspension assembly (£45). Other than that, touch wood, nothing but oil and diesel.
They’re thirsty. A full tank does about 500 miles. About 50% better if used for long motorway journeys.
It’s as refined to drive and many cars.
The chain driven engine (so I’m told) is easy to work on and will outlast me.
Reversing visibility is a nightmare. Often need my head out the window, looking back like a lorry driver.
We love ours.
Do consider a full rear canopy, otherwise, it’s ‘bootless’.