A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
3.5
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
4.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
The Isuzu Grafter is a compact commercial vehicle that brings Japanese reliability to the light truck segment. This versatile workhorse is designed for businesses needing dependable goods transportation without the bulk of larger commercial vehicles. The Grafter combines Isuzu’s renowned build quality with practical features that make it ideal for urban deliveries and small business operations. Its compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver through city streets while still offering decent payload capacity for its size. Whether you’re running a small delivery service or need a reliable vehicle for trade work, the Grafter offers the durability and efficiency that Isuzu is known for. The truck stands out from rivals like the Ford Transit with its focus on fuel economy and lower running costs. For businesses looking at commercial vehicle options, finding the right car finance package can make the Grafter an affordable choice that delivers long term value and dependable service.
How Does the Isuzu Grafter Drive?
The Isuzu Grafter is engineered to be dependable and efficient rather than exciting. The diesel engine options available are all tuned for longevity and fuel economy. The 3.0 litre diesel with around 130 horsepower provides adequate power for most commercial applications. It feels capable when loaded and has sufficient torque for steady progress on hills and motorway slip roads.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
-
Engine
3.0L 4-cylinder Diesel
-
Power Output
130 bhp
-
0-60 mph
-
MPG Combined
28 - 32 mpg
- Boot Space
- 1,500 - 3,500 kg
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP Commercial)
Inside the Isuzu Grafter: Comfort & Features
Step into the Grafter’s cab and you’ll find a functional, well designed workspace rather than luxury. The dashboard is straightforward and logically laid out, with clearly marked controls that you can operate while wearing work gloves. The materials are hard wearing plastics chosen for durability rather than style. Everything feels solid and built to withstand the rigours of daily commercial use.
The Grafter’s relentlessly practical design and robust powertrain make it a workhorse, plain and simple. It’s not glamorous, but its dependability and payload capacity are genuinely impressive for the price.
Is the Isuzu Grafter Expensive to Run?
As a commercial vehicle, the Grafter’s running costs are generally reasonable and predictable. The efficient diesel engines deliver real world fuel economy in the high 20s to low 30s MPG, depending on load and driving conditions. This helps control fuel bills, which is crucial for commercial operations. Insurance costs are typically moderate for commercial vehicle policies, though they vary significantly based on business use and driver experience.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
|
Isuzu Grafter
|
Mitsubishi Canter
|
Ford Transit Chassis
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £28,000 | £26,500 | £30,000 |
|
Performance
|
|||
| Engine | 3.0L Diesel 130hp | 3.0L Diesel 129hp | 2.0L Diesel 130hp |
| Power | 130 bhp | 129 bhp | 130 bhp |
|
Running Costs
|
|||
| MPG Combined | 30 mpg | 28 mpg | 32 mpg |
|
Practicality
|
|||
| Boot Space | 1,500 kg | 1,400 kg | 1,600 kg |
|
Standard Features
|
|||
| Key Features | Robust build, Good dealer network, Reliable reputation | Competitive pricing, Proven mechanics, Wide availability | Strong brand, Parts availability, Versatile options |
Isuzu Grafter Practicality & Boot Space
For a commercial vehicle, the Isuzu Grafter excels in practical applications. The chassis cab design means you can specify exactly the right body configuration for your business needs. Whether you need a simple flatbed, dropside body, or specialist equipment mounting, the Grafter provides a solid foundation. The payload capacity ranges from 1,500kg up to 3,500kg depending on the model, easily handling most delivery and construction requirements.
We’ve had our Grafter for three years now and it’s been absolutely bulletproof. Starts every morning and just gets on with the job. The build quality is excellent and our local dealer has been very helpful with servicing.
The Isuzu Grafter stands out in the competitive commercial vehicle market by offering genuine build quality and reliability. It combines proven diesel engine technology, robust construction, and practical design into a dependable package that businesses can trust. While it may not be the cheapest option initially, it excels in the areas that matter most for commercial operators: durability, efficiency, and minimal downtime.