Isuzu UK has said that its new D-Max pick-up range will include an extended cab body configuration – featuring rear-opening side-access panels – for the first time in the UK. That’s on top of the familiar single and double cab variants.

Prices were announced for the first time this week too. The entry-level Isuzu D-Max is priced from £14,499 (on the road but minus VAT) for the single cab 4×2 derivative and includes aircon, electric windows and front, side and curtain airbags.

Moving up the price list, the Eiger doublecab costs from £18,499 while the plusher Yukon-spec double cab starts at £18,999. Top of the spec list is the flagship Utah model with leather upholstery, heated front seats, auto climate controls and rear parking sensors. Utah models start at £21,499.

Power comes from a fuel-efficient 2.5-litre twin-turbo commonrail diesel engine, available with newly-developed six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. This Euro5-compliant unit generates 163hp and a peak torque output of 400Nm at 1,400rpm.

Towing capacity is 3t and the payload capacity is 1,000kg.

• WTV chef Mike Robinson covers more than 24,000 miles in his first year as an Isuzu brand ambassador and givie an insight into how his Isuzu Rodeo pick-up meets his needs.

Mike’s Rodeo is his daily workhorse and he estimates that more than 20% of his driving is off-road. As well as getting him across the challenging terrain of local country estates, the Rodeo also carried Mike the length and breadth of Britain while filming his new cookery show, Countrywise Kitchen.