2027 Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD review: Quick drive

It’s not all that uncommon. People don’t know what they don’t know – like using a ute for work or play when what they really need is a small truck.

Isuzu has been the Australian market leader in its segment since Noah began his boat-building project, and the N-Series has long been the go-to vehicle for those who need to do heavy-duty hauling, accounting for around half of all trucks sold in its category.

But while the N-Series was renowned for its longevity, there were driveability issues related to its automatic transmission, which Isuzu has now addressed.

The Japanese commercial-vehicle giant hasn’t reinvented the wheel with this new N-Series, instead doubling down on what it does best, but making big improvements to the areas that needed it.

Available in rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and proper four-wheel drive for off-roading, the new generation of Isuzu trucks gets a significantly updated interior, big technology changes, and a refreshed – but familiar – exterior design.

CarExpert was invited to a proving ground to test the 2026 Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD – the model offering extra grip on demand, while still being suitable for drivers holding a car licence, thanks to its 4500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) rating.

The GVM is the first part of its 45-150 variant name, with the 150 being a nod to its metric horsepower. Buyers needing more carrying capacity can also opt for the NMS 65-150, with a 6500kg GVM, provided they have the right licence.

The NMS is powered by Isuzu’s new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, but it now gets a nine-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission – mercifully replacing the antiquated single-clutch auto of the previous model – with a five-speed manual still available for those who like to swap their own cogs.

Isuzu first introduced on-demand all-wheel drive in 2010 on the NLS, but it wasn’t until the recent addition of the dual-clutch transmission that the option of an automatic was made available. Replacing the popular NLS, the all-wheel drive NMS bridges the gap between the traditional rear-driven Elf (the truck’s name in Japan) and proper 4x4 versions with a low-range transfer case.

Interestingly, Australia is the largest market globally for Isuzu’s larger 4x4 trucks – likely helped by their widespread use in country fire departments, state emergency services, and other government agencies. In any case, Isuzu seems to be the go-to for off-road trucks.

Along with the two GVM grades, the NMS can also be optioned as either a single-cab or crew-cab, if you have friends or personnel you need to bring with you. Isuzu also has Traypack and Servicepack-X options available as part of its Ready-to-Work range, allowing you to skip the body-builders and have the vehicles delivered with pre-fitted trays and toolboxes.

With plenty of experience behind the wheel of the previous-generation N-Series, we were particularly interested to see whether the new model could live up to the legendary status of its predecessor.