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The Isuzu D-MAX Models Ultimate Review (DL20, DL40, & D-Max V-Cross Double Cab & Single Cab) - How Do They Differ? All Your Questions Answered & Lots More

Explore the latest Isuzu D-MAX review, including its impressive specs, how the models differ, standout features, exceptional performance & lots, lots more.

So, the Isuzu D-MAX DL40 has come up in conversation, and you want to know some of its hidden features and everything you do about this pickup truck prior to buying one.

For instance, is it rugged and reliable enough? What features does it come packed with? Is this really the perfect pickup for you that is ideal for both work and play?

So, whether you need a tough truck for off-roading, towing, or daily driving, we will help you discover if this model has you covered.

So, let us dive in and explore what the D-MAX range has to offer you, what the driving experience is like, and if this is going to be your next best car or not

Table of Contents

 

DL 40 ISUZU

What is the Isuzu D-MAX Range?

The Isuzu D-MAX range gives you a range of pickup trucks, with a very distinctive front grille design and strong steel wheels, that will allow you to not need to worry about what is around the corner, as the New Isuzu D-Max DL20, DL40 and V-Cross are fully prepared for every terrain.

That is because these pickup trucks are work-ready, life-ready, and both on and off-road-ready as well.

Styling

As you find out, some very bold and aggressive styling has gone into the New Isuzu D-Max range, which really has revitalised the range with a more muscular radiator grille, hood and bumper, 18" alloy wheels and some very distinctive colours — including a striking new Sienna Orange hue for the V-Cross — meaning that it brings a fresh attitude and then some.

 

 

 

Technology

Then, when combined with a new look, automatic Bi-LED headlamps with High Beam Assist and automatic windscreen wipers, all of which make it safe and easy to manoeuvre, especially when you combine these together with front and rear parking sensors, as well as good all-round reversing camera as well.

It also comes with Keyless entry and dark grey side steps, which give you very easy access to get in and out of the cabin, while the new tailgate design also incorporates prominent triple-shield rear lights and a damper to help you gently open the load bed as well.

Models

For your models, here you have:

DL 40

Awards & Reliability

This is then backed up further thanks to Isuzu’s award-winning pick-up range being equipped with even smarter styling, stronger performance, and safer technology.

All of these factors then give you the reassuring capability and strength that you expect from Isuzu - their tough workhorse with added comfort and features.

So much so that the range has won a huge array of awards, including, for instance:

        
  • Pick-up of the Year – What Van? Awards
    •     
  • Best Workhorse Pick-up – Trade Van Driver Awards
    •     
  • Most Reliable Pick-up – Fleet News Awards
    •     
  • Best Pick-up – 4x4 Magazine Awards
    •     
  • Best Pick-up Truck – Business Vans Awards
    •     
  • Best Value Pick-up – Commercial Fleet Awards
    •     
  • Best Lifestyle Pick-up – Professional Pickup & 4x4 Awards
    •     
  • Best Towing Vehicle – Tow Car Awards
    •     
  • Best Off-Road Pick-up – Auto Express Awards
    •     
  • Best Pick-up for Farmers – Farmers Weekly Awards
    •     
  • Commercial Vehicle of the Year – Trade Awards
    •     
  • Most Dependable Pick-up – J.D. Power Dependability Study
    •     
  • Best Pick-up for Payload – Parkers Awards
    •     
  • Pick-up Truck of the Year – Van Fleet World Awards
    •     
  • Best 4x4 Pick-up – Off-Road Awards
    •     
  • Most Durable Pick-up – Commercial Vehicle Awards
    •     
  • Best Pick-up for Business – Company Car & Van Awards
    •     
  • Best Safety Features in a Pick-up – Euro NCAP Awards
    •     
  • Pick-up of the Year – Carbuyer Awards
    •     
  • Best Commercial 4x4 – Professional Driver Awards

 

ISUZU DL 20

Is the D-MAX Range Good for Off-roading?  

When it comes to off-roading, The D-Max range comes with a very strong 4x4 system, high ground clearance (split out by model later on), and a locking rear differential - along with many advanced driving assisting features such as Hill Contol to name one - making it ideal for tough terrains as well.

What Engine Options Does the D-Max Range Have?

Regardless of the cab type, body styles, or the version of the D-Max you go for, its powerful engines are powered by a 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine, delivering 164PS and 360Nm of torque.

This makes them very efficient for a pickup truck, reliable, and strong enough for heavy loads as a result.

 

For instance, for its engines, these breakdowns are as follows:

Feature DL20 Extd Manual Transmission DL20 Dbl Manual DL20 Dbl Auto DL40 Dbl Manual DL40 Dbl Auto V-Cross Dbl Manual V-Cross Dbl Auto
Engine
Engine Type RZ4E
Fuel Type Diesel
Arrangement Cylinders 4, In line
Firing Order 1-3-4-2
Bore (mm) 80.0
Stroke (mm) 94.4
Compression 15.9
Engine Capacity (cm³) 1898
Idle Speed 750+/- 25
Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres) 76
Gear Ratios
1st 4.942 4.942 3.600 4.942 3.600 4.942 3.600
2nd 2.452 2.452 2.090 2.452 2.090 2.452 2.090
3rd 1.428 1.428 1.488 1.428 1.488 1.428 1.488
4th 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.000
5th 0.749 0.749 0.687 0.749 0.687 0.749 0.687
6th 0.634 0.634 0.580 0.634 0.580 0.634 0.580
Reverse 4.597 4.597 3.732 4.597 3.732 4.597 3.732
Final Drive 4.300
Engines Performance
Net Power PS @ rpm 163 @ 3600
Torque Nm @ rpm 360 @ 2000 - 2500
Maximum Speed (mph) 112
Acceleration (0-62 mph) sec 12.7 12.7 13.0 12.7 13.0 12.7 13.0

    

Is the D-MAX Range Fuel-Efficient?

For a pickup range, these offer you around 33-39 MPG on average, depending on your driving conditions and whether you are carrying heavy loads as well.

For instance, here you can tend to expect:

Feature DL20 Extd Manual DL20 Dbl Manual DL20 Dbl Auto DL40 Dbl Manual DL40 Dbl Auto V-Cross Dbl Manual V-Cross Dbl Auto
Fuel Consuimption WLTP (MPG)
Low 26.40 26.15 24.35 26.15 24.35 26.15 24.35
Mid 32.84 32.46 31.38 32.46 31.38 32.46 31.38
High 38.69 38.70 37.16 38.70 37.16 38.70 37.16
Extra-High 31.74 31.38 31.04 31.38 31.04 31.38 31.04
Combined 32.84 32.47 31.74 32.47 31.38 32.47 31.38
Emissions
CO2 Emissions (g/km) 226 227 235 227 235 227 235
Emissions Class Euro 6D

 

What Colours Can the D-Maxs Range Come In?

This range can also come in 1 of 8 colours, consisting of, for example:

        
  • Splash White - Mica
    •     
  • Mercury Silver - Metallic
    •     
  • Obsidian Grey - Mica
    •     
  • Onyx Black - Mica
    •     
  • Gun Metal
    •     
  • Steel Edition
    •     
  • Spinel Red - Mica (Available for DL40 & V-Cross only)
    •     
  • Biarritz Blue - Metallic (Available for DL40 & V-Cross only)
    •     
  • Sienna Orange NEW - Mica (Available for V-Cross only)
    •     
  • Dolomite White - Pearl (Available for V-Cross only)

 

colorsof isuzu d-max trucks

 

What Is Their Wading Depths?

Regardless if you are looking for a rear-wheel drive, or a its 4x4 system, the Isuzu D-Max range can tend to wade through water up to 900mm deep - making it great for off-roading and flood-prone areas.

Features a Shift-On-The-Fly 4WD System

Switching between 2WD and 4WD is also really easy with a rotary dial, thanks to its Shift-On-The-Fly 4WD System, which allows you to adjust this to what you need it to be while on the move.

 

isuzu dl 20
ISUZU V-CROSS

Does It Have a Self-Cleaning Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?

The D-Max's DPF system will also automatically clean itself as well, helping you to reduce your emissions all without needing manual intervention in doing so.

Do They Come With Trailer Sway Control?

They do, and this feature will help you stabilise the vehicle when towing, reducing the risk of trailer sway at high speeds as a result.

It Has A-Class Leading Side Impact Protection

The D Max Range is also built with safety in mind from the ground up, and as a result, it comes with reinforced side protection - making it one of the safest pickups in its class.

 

It has an Extra Power Socket in the Load Bed

A 12V socket is also fitted in the load bed, which is very handy for plugging in your power tools or accessories while working on-site as well.

How Much Can the D-Max Range Tow?

The D Max range has an impressive towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, making it great for trailers, boats, or even very large caravans as a result.

 

What Are Their Payload Capacities?

They can also carry just over a tonne (1,100kg), making it perfect for both work and adventure as a direct result here.

Does it Have an Automatic Transmission?

It does, and you can choose between a 6-speed manual or a smooth 6-speed automatic gearbox, depending on your use case as well.

 

Is the Interior Comfortable?

It absolutely is, as the D-Max range can come with leather seats, a heated driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a modern infotainment screen to give you a few features here - a full list later on.

What Tech Features Does it Come With?

It has a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrated into it as standard, a reversing camera, keyless entry, and lots of driver assistance features.

Such as for instance:

isuzu d-max utility
Feature Description
Attention Assist Watches how you drive and warns you if it thinks you’re losing focus.
Pedal Misapplication Mitigation Reduces engine power and warns you if the accelerator is pressed suddenly near an object.
Autonomous Emergency Braking Automatically applies the brakes to help avoid or reduce the impact of a crash.
Blind Spot Monitoring Shows an orange light in the side mirror if a vehicle is in your blind spot.
Emergency Lane Keeping Prevents lane changes if another vehicle is in your blind spot by steering you back.
Forward Collision Warning Warns you if there’s a risk of crashing into another vehicle.
Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control Adjusts speed based on traffic sign recognition and maintains distance from the car ahead.
Intelligent Speed Limiter Automatically keeps your speed within the current speed limit.
Lane Departure Prevention Steers you back into your lane if you drift without indicating.
Lane Departure Warning Alerts you with a warning if you drift out of your lane.
Lane Keep Assist Helps keep you in your lane by making small steering adjustments.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert & Braking Warns and applies brakes if a car approaches from the side while reversing.
Traffic Jam Assist Works with adaptive cruise control to assist in stop-start traffic.
Traffic Sign Recognition Reads road signs and displays speed limits on your dashboard.
Turn Assist Applies brakes automatically if a collision risk is detected while turning at a junction.
Improved Target Recognition Detects pedestrians, cyclists, motorbikes, and vehicles more accurately.
Wider Field of View Expanded from 40 to 120 degrees, detecting objects up to 150m away.
Redesigned Camera Cover Provides better protection and includes a heater to clear a fogged windscreen.
Improved Emergency Braking Now reacts better when turning, even if indicators aren’t used.
Enhanced ADAS Updates improve adaptive cruise control and emergency braking performance.
New Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control Adjusts speed using road signs and now works when reversing under 10km/h.
New Traffic Sign Recognition Features Now detects motorway signs, shared precinct signs, 'Give Way', and 'Stop' signs.
Dmax Utility

How safe is the D-MAX Pick-Ups?

They have won many awards for their safety - the full list is further above -and it also has a 5-star rating from the Euro NCAP safety ratings as well - thanks in part to features like lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, to name just a few here.    

Can I Use the D-Max Range as Our Family Cars?    

You more than can as well, especially with the double and extended cab versions, as these give you plenty of room for your passengers, Isofix points for your child seats, and a smooth ride for long journeys as well.

Are They Expensive to Maintain & What Warrenty Do They Have?    

No, on the whole, they are not, as Isuzu is especially known for its reliability, and parts are widely available.

Servicing costs are also reasonable, and it comes with a 125,000-mile or 5-year warranty out of the box as well.

 

Do They Come With a Sunroof?    

No, the D Max Range does not tend to come with a sunroof, but it does have a well-insulated cabin with great visibility.    

Can I Get Accessories for it?    

You can get many accessories to improve its functionality further, from load bed covers to tow bars, roof racks, and lots more.

What BHP is Isuzu D Maxs?

The Isuzu D-Max comes with 164 brake horsepower (BHP), which is plenty for a solid workhorse like this.

 

dl 40 isuzu

Isuzu D-Max Specs

The Isuzu D-Max range comes with a 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, 164 BHP, 360Nm of torque, and a 6-speed automatic or manual gearbox.

Alongside this, it has got 4WD, a strong chassis, and plenty of safety tech, making it a great all-rounder.

dimensions of isuzu d-max
Feature DL20 Extd Manual DL20 Dbl Manual DL20 Dbl Auto DL40 Dbl Manual DL40 Dbl Auto V-Cross Dbl Manual V-Cross Dbl Auto
Dimensions (MM)
Length 5280
Width 1870
Height 1790
Front Overhang 890
Rear Overhang 1250
Wheelbase 3125
Track (Front & Rear) 1570
Ground Clearance (Rear Axle) 230
Approach Angle (Degrees) 30.5
Departure Angle (Degrees) 24.2
Ramp Angle (Degrees) 22.9
Weights (KG)
Kerb Weight 1945 1995 2015 1995 2015 1995 2015
Gross Vehicle Weight 3100
Payload² 1155 1105 1085 1105 1085 1105 1085
Max Front Axle 1450
Max Rear Axle 1910
Trailer Weight Braked 3500
Trailer Weight Unbraked 750
Nose Weight 245
Gross Train Weight 6000
Load Bed (MM)
Length 1785 1520 1520 1520 1520 1520 1520
Width 1530
Depth 500
Wheels & Tyres
Tyres 265 / 60R18
Wheels 18x7.5 J

What Insurance Groups Does The D-Max Range Fall Into?

Both the single and double cab models of the D-Max range fall into insurance group 50D.

How Do The Different Trim Levels of The D-Max Differ From The Rest of the Range?

Here, they differ in a large number of ways, including, for instance:

Feature DL20 Extended Cab Pick Up DL20 Double Cab Pick up DL40 V-Cross
New Design Halogen Headlights ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
New Design Bi-LED Headlights ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Halogen Daytime Running Lights ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
LED Daytime Running Lights ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Automatic Headlights ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Automatic Headlight Levelling ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
High Beam Assist ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
LED Rear Combination Lamp ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Halogen Front Fog Lights ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
LED Front Fog Lights ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Rear Fog Lights ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Automatic Windscreen Wipers with Rain Sensor ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Heated Rear Screen ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
New Design Two Tone Black & Medium Grey Radiator Grille ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
New Design Two Tone Dark Grey & Chrome Radiator Grille ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌
New Design Two Tone Dark Grey Radiator Grille ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Body Coloured Front Bumper ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
Body Coloured Rear Bumper with Integrated Step ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Two Tone Silver Side Steps ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌
Dark Grey Side Steps ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Folding, Heated, Body-Coloured Door Mirrors with Side Indicator Repeaters ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
Folding, Heated, Chrome Door Mirrors with Side Indicator Repeaters ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌
Folding, Heated, Dark Grey Door Mirrors with Side Indicator Repeaters ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Silver Door Handles ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
Chrome Door Handles ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌
Dark Grey Door Handles ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Integrated Fuel Filler Cap with AdBlue ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Tailgate Damper ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
New Design 18" Silver Alloy Wheels ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
New Design 18" Two Tone Alloy Wheels ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌
New Design 18” Tough Style Matt Dark Grey Alloy Wheels ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Locking Wheel Nuts ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Full Size Spare Wheel ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Interior
New High Grade Cloth Upholstery ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
Leather Upholstery ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
6-Way Adjustable Driver's Seat (Manual) ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
8-Way Adjustable Driver's Seat (Electric) ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Heated Front Seats ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Front Seatback Map Pockets ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Flat Folding Rear Seats ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅
Rear Centre Armrest with Cup Holders ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅
Leather Steering Wheel ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Comfort Features
Remote Control Central Locking ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Keyless Entry & Push Button Start ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Power Windows (Front Only) ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌
Power Windows (Front & Rear) ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅
Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Advanced Driver Assist Systems
Attention Assist ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Blind Spot Monitor ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅
Lane Departure Warning & Prevention ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Rear Cross Traffic Alert & Braking ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅
Traffic Sign Recognition ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Safety & Security
Reversing Camera ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Front & Rear Parking Sensors ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
Rear Differential Lock ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
4WD Shift-On-The-Fly ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Rough Terrain Mode ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Speed-Sensitive Power Steering ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Brake Assist System ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Hill Start Assist ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Hill Descent Control ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Alarm with Deadlock ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Centre SRS Airbag ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅
Rear Door Child Locks ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅
Door Open Warning Light ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Stop & Start System ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Enterainment
Rear Ventilation Panel ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅
New 8" Multifunction Colour Touchscreen ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌
Updated 9" Multifunction Colour Touchscreen ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Bluetooth® Connectivity ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
DAB Radio ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Wireless Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Four Speakers ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
Six Speakers ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌
Eight Speakers ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Front USB C Port ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌
2 x Front USB Ports C ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅
Rear USB C Port ❌ ✅ ✅ ✅

What are the Financing Options for Purchasing the Isuzu D-Max?

You can find a large range of flexible finance types to help you purchase the D-Max model of your choice, all of which give you more manageable monthly payments.

These options include Hire Purchase agreements, Personal Contract Purchase contracts (PCP), and lease deals.

Each financing option then has its own benefits, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your budget and financial situation.

Pricing

For the most up-to-date pricing and available from costs on the Isuzu D-Max, please see our dedicated pricing page.

Compared

When it comes to this pickup truck, they compare well to other trucks in their class. For instance, here you have:

Toyota Hilux

The Toyota Hilux for instance is a solid truck, known for its durability and off-road capability. However, the Isuzu D-Max takes things up a notch here in our view with a much more refined ride, smarter technology, and a tougher chassis.

Plus, with a class-leading 3.5-tonne towing capacity and superior safety features, the D-Max is the better all-rounder for work and adventure as a result.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger then may be popular for its car-like drive and tech, but the Isuzu D-Max delivers where it matters most for the type of person who is going to want this — that is with its reliability, toughness, and value.

With a work-ready design, better fuel efficiency, and lower running costs, the D-Max's are built to handle the toughest jobs while still keeping comfort and practical features at the forefront as they do so.

KGM Musso

The KGM Musso then gives you a very affordable entry into the pick-up market, but it doesn’t match the legendary durability of the Isuzu D-Max or its reliability history either.

The D-Max, for instance, comes with a proven reliability record, outstanding off-road capability, and a very robust overall design that is ready for anything.

Plus, with a more refined interior and stronger safety features, the D-Max is simply in a different league here.

VW Amarok

The VW Amarok then brings you premium touches, but the Isuzu D-Max focuses on what really counts in our view — dependability, ruggedness, and adaptability to the terrain you will be facing.

While the Amarok leans more towards lifestyle buyers, the D-Max is built for those looking for a commercial vehicle and a truck for family use, allowing you to perform both on and off the job.

With superior ground clearance here, a tougher chassis, and outstanding towing ability, it really is the go-to choice for serious work and play as a result.

Nissan Navara

The Nissan Navara is also a strong player, but since its UK departure, the Isuzu D-Max has stepped up as the best pick-up in its class here, giving you better durability, a stronger chassis, and class-leading safety; the D-Max is more the go-to choice for professionals as a result.

 

So is the Isuzu D-MAX Range Right For You?

As you can see, the Isuzu D-MAX Trucks - regardless of the model type you are after - give you a very nice range, a good driving position, with pratcial features such as its new Rough Terrain mode, lots of storage space options to choose from, and a good usable centre console, all of which help to makes this a great all-rounder. For example, this pickup truck range not only gives you a lot of power but also a lot of durability and the modern tech you need, all wrapped into one package.

So, whether you are looking for a business range workhorse, a Utility single-cab version, or a pickup double-cab option for those adventure-ready family getaways, Isuzu offers you a truck here that, in our view, really does tick all the right boxes regardless.

Especially with its strong towing capacity, great safety features, and comfortable cabin, it’s a vehicle that really does suit both business and personal needs really easily.

When you also combine this with the fact that the Isuzu electric D-Max is soon to be available as well with it seeing the Z Prestige model; as its top spec version, meaning that you can also get this in an electric version BEV as well.

So, if you want a truck that won’t let you down, the D-MAX range is definitely worth considering, and we hope that this guide has answered all your questions about it and helped you decide if this is the right pickup for you or not.

If you liked our Isuzu D-MAX review, then you may like some of our other latest updates, news, in-depth electric cars and hybrid car reviews, car buying guides and car news, such as, for instance:

Test Drive

So why not find out in person if an Isuzu D-MAX is your best pickup truck option, especially if you like what you have read and are looking for your next option? Then why not book a road test drive in one of our test cars at one of our local Isuzu dealerships near you today - and experience this small car first-hand by getting behind the wheel?

Who is Ian Grieves?

Here at Ian Grieves we are an established car dealership network located in Falkirk, Scotland, who can specialise in offering you new and used vehicles from top brands, along with the latest and competitive car deals, from brands such as Jeep, Subaru, Isuzu Pick-ups, and Suzuki as well as used cars.

Founded in 1991, our business remains family-owned and is run by Ian Grieve's sons, Alastair and Adam Grieve.

Our services include vehicle sales, servicing, MOT work, and a wide range of aftersales support as well.

With a focus on customer care, Ian Grieves has earned a reputation for treating all our customers with a personalised approach, ensuring that you feel valued and supported throughout your experience as a result.

Consequently, we are proud to provide you with everything from purchasing a new car to doing small maintenance tasks, making us a very reliable choice for car buyers across central Scotland and the whole of the UK as well.

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01 April 2025