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Isuzu D-Max vs Toyota HiLux

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Isuzu D-Max
Isuzu D-Max

$32,700 - $78,900

2025 price

Toyota HiLux
Toyota HiLux

$32,350 - $82,990

2024 price

Summary

2025 Isuzu D-Max
2024 Toyota HiLux
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Diesel Turbo 4, 3.0L

Diesel Turbo 4, 2.8L
Fuel Type
Diesel

Diesel/Electric
Fuel Efficiency
8.0L/100km (combined)

7.2L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Too many decals
  • No power and torque increase
  • Could do with more mods

  • V-Active 48V performance
  • Short service intervals
  • Cramped rear seating
2025 Isuzu D-Max Summary

Carmakers nowadays are increasingly entering into collaborations with vehicle-engineering companies in order to develop “special” vehicles.

Why? 

Well, for one thing, car buyers now demand much more than a mere sticker pack on their 4WD if that vehicle has been marketed as a limited-edition/special-edition/whatever version of the standard vehicle on which it’s based.

And these special vehicles have proven very popular because they benefit from the substantial engineering work undertaken away from the OEM.

You only have to look at the recent collaborations between Nissan Australia and Melbourne-based vehicle engineering company, Premcar, on the Navara and Patrol Warrior to see that Premcar and companies of the same ilk can be entrusted with conversion work, engineering upgrades and the fitment of off-road accessories in order to add real value to a vehicle.

And so it is that Isuzu has joined forces with Walkinshaw Automotive Group to develop the D-Max Blade.

Based on the LS-U+, the Blade was developed locally and among its enhancements over and above the D-Max on which it’s based, it has Aussie-tuned lifted suspension, a lightbar, underbody protection, light truck construction all-terrain tyres and some Blade-specific design enhancements.

But with the same powertrain as a LS-U+ and no power and torque improvements, is the Blade worthy of your consideration?

Read on.

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2024 Toyota HiLux Summary

Since its launch in the 1960s, the iconic HiLux has been one of Toyota’s strongest-selling models. The current eighth-generation continues that tradition, even though now in its ninth year in local showrooms and having lost its long-held 4x4 sales leadership to Ford’s Ranger.

Toyota has done a commendable job in keeping the HiLux looking fresh since its local launch in 2015, with numerous cosmetic/equipment updates and the addition of prestige models like the wide-track Rogue and performance-enhanced GR Sport.

The 4x4 HiLux’s latest upgrade is the first use of Toyota's new 'V-Active' 48V technology, which provides electric assistance to the diesel engine. Toyota claims improved fuel efficiency, acceleration and smoothness, along with enhanced off-road prowess. We recently put one to the test to see how it measures up from a tradie’s perspective.

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Deep dive comparison

2025 Isuzu D-Max 2024 Toyota HiLux

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