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It’s not all that unusual. People don’t know what they don’t know – like utilizing a ute for work or play when what they actually need is a small truck.
Isuzu has been the Australian market chief in its phase since Noah started his boat-building challenge, and the N-Series has lengthy been the go-to car for many who must do heavy-duty hauling, accounting for round half of all vehicles offered in its class.
But whereas the N-Series was famend for its longevity, there have been driveability points associated to its automated transmission, which Isuzu has now addressed.
The Japanese commercial-vehicle large hasn’t reinvented the wheel with this new N-Series, as an alternative doubling down on what it does finest, however making huge enhancements to the areas that wanted it.
Available in rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and correct four-wheel drive for off-roading, the brand new technology of Isuzu vehicles will get a considerably up to date inside, huge expertise modifications, and a refreshed – however acquainted – exterior design.
CarKnowledgeable was invited to a proving floor to check the 2026 Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD – the mannequin providing additional grip on demand, whereas nonetheless being appropriate for drivers holding a automobile licence, because of its 4500kg gross car mass (GVM) score.
The GVM is the primary a part of its 45-150 variant title, with the 150 being a nod to its metric horsepower. Buyers needing extra carrying capability can even go for the NMS 65-150, with a 6500kg GVM, offered they’ve the proper licence.
The NMS is powered by Isuzu’s new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, nevertheless it now will get a nine-speed dual-clutch automated transmission – mercifully changing the antiquated single-clutch auto of the earlier mannequin – with a five-speed guide nonetheless out there for many who wish to swap their very own cogs.
Isuzu first launched on-demand all-wheel drive in 2010 on the NLS, nevertheless it wasn’t till the current addition of the dual-clutch transmission that the choice of an automated was made out there. Replacing the favored NLS, the all-wheel drive NMS bridges the hole between the standard rear-driven Elf (the truck’s title in Japan) and correct 4×4 variations with a low-range switch case.
Interestingly, Australia is the most important market globally for Isuzu’s bigger 4×4 vehicles – probably helped by their widespread use in nation fireplace departments, state emergency companies, and different authorities businesses. In any case, Isuzu appears to be the go-to for off-road vehicles.
Along with the 2 GVM grades, the NMS will also be optioned as both a single-cab or crew-cab, you probably have buddies or personnel you want to convey with you. Isuzu additionally has Traypack and Servicepack-X choices out there as a part of its Ready-to-Work vary, permitting you to skip the body-builders and have the autos delivered with pre-fitted trays and toolboxes.
With loads of expertise behind the wheel of the previous-generation N-Series, we have been notably to see whether or not the brand new mannequin might dwell as much as the legendary standing of its predecessor. So, we chucked on our Ariat boots and headed into the bush to seek out out.
How a lot does the Isuzu NMS price?
The Isuzu NMS AWD lineup begins with the guide single/cab-chassis – known as the ‘day cab’ in truck parlance – priced from $86,921 earlier than on-road prices.
| Model | Price earlier than on-road prices |
|---|---|
| Isuzu NMS AWD single/cab-chassis guide | $86,921 |
| Isuzu NMS AWD single/cab-chassis auto | $89,121 |
| Isuzu NMS AWD twin/cab-chassis guide | $99,109 |
| Isuzu NMS AWD twin/cab-chassis auto | $101,309 |
| Isuzu NMS AWD Traypack guide | $94,442 |
| Isuzu NMS AWD Traypack auto | $96,642 |
Direct opponents for the Isuzu NMS are the Fuso Canter, Hino 300, and Iveco Daily – nonetheless, none of those fashions has on-demand all-wheel drive, as an alternative having non-obligatory 4×4 powertrains with low-range, making them costlier than the Isuzu.
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Buyers wanting to stay with Isuzu however needing elevated experience top and low-range would want to step as much as the NPS 4×4, which has a 7500kg GVM, however will be de-rated to 4500kg to make it car-licence suitable – although costs for the NPS 4×4 begin from $124,630 earlier than on-roads.
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What is the Isuzu NMS like on the within?
Like the outside, the brand new inside brings the N-Series ahead, whereas nonetheless being totally acquainted to these stepping out of the previous one.
Thankfully, Isuzu hasn’t tried to repeat Tesla or flip the cabin right into a spaceship. This continues to be a piece truck, with hardy supplies and a very good dose of Japanese pragmatism – however with some appreciated tweaks to make it that bit simpler to dwell with.
Like the steering wheel, which now will get (actual) buttons for each the stereo and cruise management. Sure, most automobiles have had them because the Nineties, however issues transfer a little bit slower within the business car sector. In any case, it’s a welcome addition.
And notably so, given the ‘floating’ tablet-style head unit, which makes use of haptic controls for issues like audio quantity alongside the aspect of the ten.1-inch touchscreen. Along with digital radio, the MyIsuzu system gives Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – nonetheless, these can solely be used with a cable.
The audio system has by no means been a robust swimsuit of the N-Series, however the person interface on the infotainment system is without doubt one of the finest we’ve utilized in current reminiscence – apparently the results of it being developed in Australia.
Isuzu has additionally included a local satellite tv for pc navigation system designed for vehicles, which helps you to modify the peak and width of the car within the system, relying on the load or physique that’s out again – and it even has a HAZMAT setting. All of which lets you keep away from roads, bridges, and tunnels that aren’t appropriate, whereas sending you alongside the quickest route.
Having as soon as needed to carry out a three-point flip in the midst of peak-hour site visitors to keep away from a low bridge that Google Maps tried to ship me down, I personally know the way worthwhile these truck GPS programs are – particularly for these driving in unfamiliar areas.
Another time, a former colleague I used to be in convoy with forgot to use the handbrake earlier than he hopped out at a servo, permitting his truck to softly roll again into the one I had simply parked. So Isuzu’s addition of an electrical handbrake is one thing I’m personally glad to see added.
The electrical handbrake additionally provides an auto-hold function to the N-Series, which robotically engages the brakes when stopped, in direct response to requests from councils and fleet operators. Apparently, they labored with my former colleague, too.
There’s additionally keyless entry and begin for variants with automated transmissions, plus automated local weather management – with cooling for the second row in crew cab fashions – and a seat with mechanical suspension for the motive force.
Comfort tends to come back second to sturdiness, however there is a bit extra bolstering on the motive force’s seat, and a stunning quantity of room for second-row passengers – with sufficient room on the rear bench to take a nap.
Competitors within the phase arguably have nicer interiors, with considerably higher audio programs and better-quality plastics in some areas. But Isuzu has clawed again a whole lot of floor with the brand new N-Series, with out overshooting the runway.
Isuzu isn’t about to wow anybody with this cabin, because it’s extra of an evolution than a revolution, nonetheless, the enhancements are worthwhile and make it a a lot nicer place to spend time.
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What’s underneath the bonnet?
Developed from the legendary 4JJ1 engine, the brand new 3.0-litre ‘4JZ1-TCS’ four-cylinder turbo-diesel produces 110kW of energy and 430Nm of torque, and will be optioned with both a five-speed guide or nine-speed dual-clutch automated transmission.
| Specifications | Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD guide | Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD auto |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-litre turbo-diesel 4cyl | 3.0-litre turbo-diesel 4cyl |
| Power | 110kW | 110kW |
| Torque | 430Nm | 430Nm |
| Transmission | 5sp guide | 9sp dual-clutch automated |
| Drive kind | On-demand, part-time all-wheel drive | On-demand, part-time all-wheel drive |
| Emissions commonplace | ADR 80/04 (pPNLT) Euro VI |
ADR 80/04 (pPNLT) Euro VI |
| Fuel tank | 75L diesel 14L AdBlue |
75L diesel 14L AdBlue |
| Braked towing capability | 4000kg | 4000kg |
| Gross car mass (GVM) | 4500kg | 4500kg |
| Gross mixture mass (GCM) | 8500kg | 8000kg |
Drive is shipped to the rear wheels in most circumstances, with part-time all-wheel drive chosen by way of a push-button on the dashboard.
The 4JZ1 can be Euro VI and ADR 80/04 emissions-compliant, utilizing AdBlue diesel additive to assist scale back tailpipe gases.
The Isuzu NMS is licensed for as much as 4000kg of braked-trailer towing, with a gross mixture mass (GCM) score of 8000kg for the automated, and 8500kg for the guide.
CarKnowledgeable can prevent hundreds on a brand new Isuzu. Click right here to get a terrific deal.
How does the Isuzu NMS drive?
This wasn’t a complete check of the Isuzu NMS AWD in all eventualities, and we want to have spent just a few hours on a freeway to get the full image. However, having had many of the day behind the wheel, we did get a very good understanding of the brand new mannequin.
And frankly, like the inside, the 2026 N-Series doesn’t really feel prefer it’s an enormous departure from earlier fashions when driving it. With one huge exception: the brand new transmission.
The previous single-clutch automated transmission within the N-Series was historical and irritating to make use of. It had very low gearing to allow it to stand up to hurry when carrying heavy hundreds, making freeway work a bit tedious, and it felt prefer it spent extra time between gears than really sending energy to the wheels.
The new nine-speed dual-clutch is nothing just like the previous one. It’s responsive, geared properly, and really as much as the duty – to the purpose the place it seems like a multi-generational leap over the previous one.
While I’m a lifelong member of the Manual Transmission Appreciation Club, the guide within the smaller N-Series fashions is fairly notchy and lifeless, and is now noticeably slower to make use of than the auto. I concern the brand new dual-clutch transmission might result in the demise of the guide within the N-Series, as a result of there’s no motive to order one with a clutch now, except you actually need that additional 500kg of GCM.
It’s a little bit of an uncommon idea from the angle of a passenger automobile, however the NMS has selectable all-wheel drive – just like the ‘4A’ discovered within the Ford Ranger, however with out the low-range. In different phrases, the car drives the rear wheels more often than not, however in the event you discover you want additional traction, you may hit the AWD button on the dashboard, and drive will likely be despatched to all 4 wheels when wanted.
As talked about, there isn’t a low-range switch case like within the 4×4 fashions, so it’s not as succesful for true off-roading. But it’s additionally not designed for that stuff. No, that is for low-traction environments. Think moist roads, gravel tracks, and muddy worksites.
Regardless, we nonetheless took it on the total off-road course on the proving floor, and it didn’t miss a beat all day. Having 9 gears within the auto transmission positively helped, permitting the car to nearly replicate having low-range on steep filth and gravel gradients.
The engine is typical Isuzu: a bit loud, a bit clackety, and missing refinement to such a level that you just’re satisfied this factor will final eternally. And it in all probability will. One of the the reason why is that Isuzu engineers aren’t attempting to squeeze each final little bit of horsepower out of the engine, intentionally understressing the powertrain.
Meaning you get the identical 110kW as a Skoda Scala, regardless of the Isuzu’s engine having greater than double the capability of that discovered within the Czech hatchback.
What it does have is mid-range torque. There’s a little bit of turbo lag when taking off, however as soon as that turbocharger spools, there’s a very good quantity of energy from the three.0-litre. Unfortunately, it does are likely to run out of puff, which isn’t uncommon for a diesel, however fortunately the brand new transmission will get essentially the most out of what it has to provide.
It was stunning simply how succesful this factor is off-road, particularly contemplating among the issues we have been throwing at it have been completely outdoors its meant functionality. Along with the powertrain, the astonishingly good turning circle permits you to get by way of very tight bends and place the car precisely the place you need it.
The solely actual hindrance is the experience top. Proper 4×4 Isuzu vehicles have additional clearance to assist them recover from obstacles, whereas the AWD sits on the identical stage as the usual rear-driven model. Again, it is sensible contemplating it was outdoors of its wheelhouse on this course.
Away from the off-road challenges, we hit some hilly gravel bush tracks, which have been extra throughout the capabilities of the NMS. Here, each the auto-hold and the general top turned a bonus, with the low cabin permitting it to clear the branches of bushes, the place different bigger off-road vehicles in convoy couldn’t. The additional traction helped get the NMS up the steep gradients and round slippery corners with out ever breaking a sweat.
As you’d anticipate, experience consolation is on the harsher aspect – being designed primarily for transporting heavy cargo – even with our check car having some load strapped to the tray. The suspension seat helped, however we have been being thrown round greater than you’ll be in an SUV or ute, although that is clearly a heavy-duty truck constructed for work. There’s solely a lot you are able to do with load-bearing suspension and a cab-over configuration, and the consolation of the occupants turns into the compromise.
Hitting the graceful blacktop for a restricted drive, the NMS felt proper at residence. It additionally reiterated simply how glorious the transmission is, taking advantage of the efficiency from the engine whereas getting the Isuzu to the pace restrict easily.
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What do you get?
The gear listing of the Isuzu NMS in all probability will not blow your socks off, particularly in comparison with conventional dual-cab utes, although the truck firm has added much more niceties lately to make life extra nice for skilled drivers.
2027 Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD commonplace gear highlights:
- Mechanically suspended driver’s seat
- Automatic local weather management
- 10.1-inch MyIsuzu Co-Pilot touchscreen
- Truck-tailored satellite tv for pc navigation
- AM/FM/DAB+ radio
- Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Steering wheel-mounted controls
- Tilt- and reach-adjustable steering column
- Bi-LED headlights with LED daytime operating lights
- Electric park brake with Auto Hold
- Rear cabin cooling provisions on crew-cab variants
- Passive Entry and Start System – dual-clutch fashions
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Traypack possibility provides:
- Heavy-duty aluminium deck rated to five tonnes
- Removable dropsides and tailgate
- External ratchet rails rated to 600kg every
- Tube/mesh headboard with seize handles
- Powder-coated window and tail-light protectors on present supplier examples
CarKnowledgeable can prevent hundreds on a brand new Isuzu. Click right here to get a terrific deal.
Is the Isuzu NMS protected?
The NMS is unrated by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), nonetheless, the previous-generation Isuzu NMR 60/45-150 AMT was examined by ANCAP in mid-2025 as a part of a bunch check of the preferred mild vehicles in Australia.
Though associated, the NMS and older NMR are usually not the identical mannequin. The report nonetheless offers some insights, with the Isuzu NMR scoring 20.7 factors out of a doable 100 – in comparison with 15.9 factors for the Hino 300 Series 721 Wide, 15.2 factors for the Fuso Canter 815 Wide Cab, and 13.2 factors for the Foton T5 Electric.
The 2026 Isuzu N-Series makes use of a dual-lens digicam system – understood to be kind of the identical system used on Subaru fashions, branded as EyeSight.
Standard security gear:
- Driver and front-passenger airbags
- Advanced Emergency Braking – AEB
- Forward/distance warning
- Lane departure warning
- Electronic stability management
- Anti-lock brakes and digital brake-force distribution
- Anti-skid regulator traction management
- Attention Alert System
- Automatic Lighting System
- Cab Tilt Warning
- Traffic Movement Warning
- Electric park brake with Auto Hold
- ECE-R29-compliant cab with aspect anti-intrusion beams
Automatic transmission variants add:
- Full Speed Adaptive Cruise Control
- Intelligent Speed Limiter
- Miss Acceleration Mitigation
- Traffic Sign Recognition
CarKnowledgeable can prevent hundreds on a brand new Isuzu. Click right here to get a terrific deal.
How a lot does the Isuzu NMS price to run?
The Isuzu NMS is roofed by a three-year, 150,000km guarantee, with three years of roadside help, and a further three years of protection for Ready-to-Work our bodies.
| Servicing and Warranty | Isuzu NMS AWD |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 3 years/150,000km |
| Roadside help | 3 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months/20,000km |
| Capped-price servicing | Varies |
Service intervals are 12 months or 20,000km, with Service Agreements out there by way of Isuzu to assist hold upkeep prices predictable for fleet managers and homeowners.
CarKnowledgeable can prevent hundreds on a brand new Isuzu. Click right here to get a terrific deal.
CarKnowledgeable’s Take on the Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD
The 2026 Isuzu NMS AWD is without doubt one of the unsung heroes of the N-Series vary, and I believe many consumers on this house will see the worth of including on-demand all-wheel drive to their small truck fleets.
Isuzu is the epitome of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t repair it’, nevertheless it’s a pleasant distinction to different producers that change issues only for the sake of it. Nothing in regards to the new N-Series goes backwards, and whereas it arguably isn’t the quickest on the observe and area, the corporate has launched a whole lot of small however welcome options.
The headline right here, although, is the brand new transmission. The previous single-clutch automated was so gradual it felt prefer it was sending a postcard again to Japan simply to get permission to alter gear every time. The newest dual-clutch auto is nothing like that. It’s fast, clean, and expands the potential of the truck – notably with the all-wheel drive of the NMS.
The selectable all-wheel drive on the NMS is a quiet stroke of genius, given these vehicles usually must ship provides to muddy worksites and farms. And whereas it’s been out there for nearly 17 years on the N-Series, it’s the brand new dual-clutch transmission that makes it much more pleasant to drive, in addition to now being able to go additional into the bush.
Isuzu’s NMS isn’t going to be a substitute for many who want their work ute to double as a household automobile, but when it’s a heavy-duty workhorse that’s required – with a little bit of functionality to get by way of low-traction environments – then the NMS may very well be the factor you didn’t know you wanted.
CarKnowledgeable can prevent hundreds on a brand new Isuzu. Click right here to get a terrific deal.
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