Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max - The question of utility over premiumness

When we talk about pickup mini-trucks, we don’t associate them with a big number of models on sale. They are rather very small in number, yet extremely impactful. And within this very limited number of options available in the Middle Eastern market, the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D-Max turn out to the be the best in business.

The Toyota Hilux is a perfect mix of utility with comfort. The double cab setup has a very pleasing interior while the single cab variant is big on the rear deck. On the other hand, the Isuzu D-Max is more like a premium offering in the range with its slew of attractive features.

So, if you are confused about which one to buy, here is a comprehensive guide as to which one among the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max would be the perfect choice for you.

Design

The Toyota Hilux is much like those cars which end up fulfilling multiple roles. The double cab variant serves the purpose of both private as well as a commercial vehicle. It exhibits a rough and rugged approach and is built with top quality materials.

The front grille is richly dipped in chrome, much like the signature Toyota style. The top end model has a good number of elements that would please the buyers. Chrome garnishing is added on the headlights, fog lamps up front and also to the tail lights in the form of cover. Halogen headlamps are standard in the top trim along with chrome rear view mirrors and door handles.

The Toyota Hilux colors mostly include metallic type shades like White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, etc.

On the other hand, the features on the Isuzu D-Max are slightly more impressive. The top trims have bright chrome finishing on the front grille while the others have a material grey coating. The rear view mirrors are garnished in chrome. You get projector headlamps on the top trims while the lower ones have multi-reflector units. You also get a cargo hook for most of the variants.

The number of color options offered by Isuzu on the D-Max is higher than its competitors.

Interior

The Toyota Hilux has a very plush interior setting. The speakers that are connected to the infotainment system are very strategically placed for the best response. There is a large touchscreen display in the centre of the dashboard to enable smooth navigation of all the features.

The digital-analogue centre console has a 4.2-inch TFT display placed at the centre of the two big dials for the speedo and the tacho. The glove box has AC vents to keep drinks cool even during hot days. The rear row vents keep the comfort level high.

On the other hand, The Isuzu D-Max specs for the interiors aren't very attractive, though it would please you at the first sight. The cabin wears the dual-tone black and red color scheme. The setting looks somewhat primitive and you will find dull and grainy plastics all around.

However, when it comes to the comfort level, the D-Max clearly outclasses the Hilux purely because it is much more spacious. In fact, the front windscreen and the windows are perfectly sized to offer an amazing visibility.

Power & transmission

The Toyota Hilux specs are better than that of its counterpart as it is powered by a 2.7-litre VVT-i engine which can thrust out a maximum power of 164 PS along with a peak torque of 244 Nm. The maximum torque comes at 4,000 rpm, which suggests that it has a very high revving motor. Power is sent down to the wheels via 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.

On the other hand, the Isuzu D-Max has is offered in two engine trims. The smaller 2.5-litre motor makes 79 PS of power and 176 Nm of torque in the base variant and 109 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque in the others. The bigger 3.0-litre motor makes 136 PS of power and 294 Nm of torque. The power is sent down to either two wheels or all the wheels via a 5-speed manual or automatic.

Hence, it can be seen that the D-Max engine is slightly on the inferior side.

Verdict

The Toyota model tends to be the better option to choose here. The Hilux engine is more powerful and makes more a potent option. However, the Isuzu D-Max price is a lot lower than the competitor, which gives it a slight edge.

But if you are considering the Toyota Hilux price alone, the features and power on offer make it very much justified. Hence, it turns out to be a better option to choose.