Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD driven: dual-clutch automatic arrives for the N-Series all-rounder

NMS replaces the NLS with dual-clutch AWD

The new Isuzu NMS 45-150 AWD replaces the long-running NLS in the N-Series line-up, adding a nine-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to on-demand all-wheel drive for the first time. According to CarExpert, which was invited to a proving ground to sample the new truck, Isuzu introduced on-demand all-wheel drive in 2010 on the NLS, but an automatic option only became available with the arrival of the dual-clutch unit. The NMS sits between the traditional rear-driven Elf, as the truck is named in Japan, and the proper 4x4 versions fitted with a low-range transfer case. ¹²

Isuzu Australia Limited announced the broader MY25 N Series AWD and 4x4 range in June 2026, describing the NMS as the centrepiece of the AWD line-up. IAL Head of Sales Craig White said the range delivered higher levels of safety, improved performance, broader transmission choice and enhanced driver comfort while staying true to the rugged dependability customers expect from Isuzu. The company confirmed the NMS is available in a car-licence-friendly 4500kg GVM variant and an LR-licence-required 6500kg variant, both in single and crew cab configurations, replacing models previously sold only at 4500kg GVM as the NLS. ³

Australia is a significant market for these trucks. CarExpert notes Australia is the largest global market for Isuzu's larger 4x4 trucks, helped by their widespread use with country fire departments, state emergency services and other government agencies. Isuzu Australia also says local operating conditions and customer requirements have helped shape the development of several global Isuzu platforms over many years. ¹²³

Pricing and line-up

CarExpert lists the Isuzu NMS AWD line-up from $86,921 before on-road costs for the manual single-cab chassis, or 'day cab' in truck parlance. According to CarExpert's pricing table, the automatic single-cab chassis is $89,121, the dual-cab chassis is $99,109 in manual form and $101,309 as an automatic, while Traypack variants are listed at $94,442 (manual) and $96,642 (automatic). These are list prices before on-road costs. ¹²

For buyers needing more carrying capacity, CarExpert reports the NMS 65-150 offers a 6500kg GVM, provided the driver holds the right licence. Those wanting increased ride height and low range must step up to the NPS 4x4, which CarExpert prices from $124,630 before on-road costs with a 7500kg GVM that can be de-rated to 4500kg for car-licence compatibility. CarExpert notes direct competitors such as the Fuso Canter, Hino 300 and Iveco Daily have no on-demand all-wheel-drive option, instead offering optional low-range 4x4 powertrains that are more expensive than the Isuzu. ¹²

Powertrain and capability

Under the cab, the NMS carries Isuzu's new 3.0-litre 4JZ1-TCS four-cylinder turbo-diesel, developed from the 4JJ1 engine. According to Isuzu Australia's announcement, the NMS AWD models produce 150 PS and 430Nm, while the higher-output 4JZ1-TCH in the NPS and NQS 4x4 variants generates 175 PS and 460Nm. CarExpert's specifications table quotes the NMS at 110kW and 430Nm, with a five-speed manual or nine-speed dual-clutch automatic. All models come with a new exhaust after-treatment system, and the 4JZ1 is Euro VI and ADR 80/04 (pPNLT) emissions-compliant using AdBlue. ¹²³

Capability figures distinguish the AWD variant. CarExpert reports the NMS is certified for up to 4000kg of braked-trailer towing, with a gross combination mass of 8000kg for the automatic and 8500kg for the manual, against a 4500kg GVM. Drive is sent to the rear wheels in most circumstances, with part-time all-wheel drive selected via a dashboard push-button. Isuzu Australia says the nine-speed dual-clutch keeps engine revs low to aid fuel economy and reduce highway cabin noise, and its patented dual-clutch structure enables full-power, millisecond upshifts with intelligent skip-shifting. ¹²³

Cabin, equipment and safety

The updated cabin brings steering-wheel buttons for stereo and cruise control, an electric park brake with Auto Hold added in response to requests from councils and fleet operators, and a 10.1-inch MyIsuzu Co-Pilot touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. CarExpert highlights a truck-tailored satellite navigation system that lets drivers set vehicle height and width, including a HAZMAT setting, to route around unsuitable roads, bridges and tunnels, along with automatic climate control with rear cooling provisions on crew-cab models, a mechanically suspended driver's seat, and keyless entry and start on dual-clutch models. ¹²

Traypack Ready-to-Work variants add a heavy-duty aluminium deck rated to five tonnes, removable dropsides and tailgate, external ratchet rails rated to 600kg each, and a tube/mesh headboard with grab handles, according to CarExpert. Isuzu Australia says the NMS 65/45-150 provides the platform for Traypack, Tipper and Servicepack-X configurations, allowing customers to access factory-backed application-specific solutions directly from the dealership floor. ¹²³

On safety, CarExpert reports the NMS is unrated by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), though the related previous-generation NMR 60/45-150 AMT was tested by ANCAP in mid-2025 as part of a group test of Australia's most popular light trucks, scoring 20.7 points out of 100. CarExpert notes the 2027 N-Series uses a dual-lens camera system understood to be more or less the same system Subaru brands as EyeSight. Standard equipment includes driver and front-passenger airbags, advanced emergency braking, forward and lane departure warning and electronic stability control, while automatic variants add full-speed adaptive cruise control, an intelligent speed limiter, miss acceleration mitigation and traffic sign recognition. ¹²

Driving impressions and ownership

CarExpert's quick drive found the new nine-speed dual-clutch a major step up from the antiquated single-clutch automatic of the previous model, describing it as responsive, well geared and a multi-generational leap forward, to the point where the reviewer questioned whether the manual has a future in the N-Series beyond buyers needing the extra 500kg of GCM it permits. The truck completed a full proving-ground off-road course without issue, aided by its nine ratios and a strong turning circle, though CarExpert notes it lacks the low-range transfer case and extra ride height of the 4x4 models and is intended for low-traction environments such as wet roads, gravel tracks and muddy worksites. Ride comfort is on the harsher side, as expected of a load-bearing cab-over truck. ¹²

On ownership, CarExpert reports the NMS is covered by a three-year, 150,000km warranty with three years of roadside assistance, and an additional three years of coverage for Ready-to-Work bodies. Service intervals are 12 months or 20,000km, with Service Agreements available through Isuzu to help keep maintenance costs predictable for fleet managers and owners. ¹²