The new Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain is a massive step up on its predecessor, and should convert some Ranger and HiLux buyers to the cause. But in a straight line, it can't match the Amarok V6. So is this old warhorse still worth a look?
Volkswagen Amarok vs Isuzu D-Max Comparison
Volkswagen Amarok
Deal Available!
Isuzu D-Max
Deal Available!
2024 Volkswagen
Amarok
vs
2024 Isuzu
D-Max
Select Variants...
How they stack...
CarExpert Score
CarExpert has rated other vehicles in the pick up or cab chassis 4x4 category, between scores of 7 and 8.4.
0.0
8.2
8.1
0.0
Based on the Volkswagen Amarok AVENTURA TSI452 4MOTION
Based on the Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ (4x4)
Best suitable for...
Work
Driving the family
Long distance driving
Fuel Efficiency
80L
576 to 792 km
76L
509 to 608 km
ANCAP Safety Rating
Warranty
5 year
warranty
warranty
6 year
warranty
warranty
MSRP
$55,490 - $82,990
$32,200 - $70,500
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CarExpert's Take
Max Davies
Marketplace Journalist
Max Davies drove this car and these were their findings:
Hits
- Fun hot hatch engine
- Upmarket styling all round
- Unexpectedly plush ride
Misses
- Getting quite expensive
- Scarce storage and minimal buttons
- Inconsistent transmission behaviour
Max Davies
Marketplace Journalist
Max Davies drove this car and these were their findings:
Hits
- Strong, reliable diesel engine
- Comfortable interior, good tech
- Impressive ride quality
Misses
- No full-time 4WD
- Prices keep climbing
- A little rattly here and there
Standard Features
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | ||
Wireless phone charger | ||
Powered tailgate | ||
Rear air vents | ||
Adaptive cruise control | ||
Climate control | ||
Reversing sensors | ||
Reversing camera | ||
Autonomous emergency braking | ||
Optional Features
- Metallic Paint (+$990)
- Savona Leather Interior (+$3,100)
- Mica Paint (+$650)
Colours Available
While options and pricing haven’t been confirmed yet, we know the Amarok will be available in eight exterior colours including one colour unique to VW.
- Frozen White
- Agate Black metallic
- Blue Lightning metallic
- Carbonised Grey metallic
- Lucid Red metallic
- Moondust Silver metallic
- Diffused Silver metallic
- Moroccan Blue metallic (unique to Volkswagen)
A new Sunshine Orange mica exterior paint colour is offered exclusively on the X-Terrain following the discontinuation of Volcanic Amber metallic.
The 2024 D-Max range will be offered in nine colours. All except Mineral White come at a $500 premium.
- Mineral White
- Basalt Black mica
- Neptune Blue mica (new)
- Mercury Silver metallic
- Obsidian Grey mica
- Granite Grey metallic (new, X-Terrain only)
- Moonstone White pearl (new; LS-U, LS-U+ and X-Terrain only)
- Magnetic Red mica (LS-U, LS-U+, X-Terrain)
- Volcanic Amber metallic (X-Terrain only)
- Mineral White
- Basalt Black mica
- Cobalt Blue mica
- Mercury Silver metallic
- Obsidian Grey metallic
- Marble White pearl (LS-U, LS-U+, X-Terrain)
- Magnetic Red mica (LS-U, LS-U+, X-Terrain)
- Volcanic Amber metallic (X-Terrain)
Comparison
2020 Isuzu D-Max v Volkswagen Amarok V6
Reviews
8.2
2024 Volkswagen Amarok Aventura TSI452 review
With its unique turbo petrol engine in a market that's more open to diesels than ever, the Amarok Aventura sits nicely in its own zone.
Max Davies
8.1
2025 Isuzu D-Max review
The D-Max is a staple in the Australian ute market, and this year's updates have done well to bring it up to speed against the competition.
Max Davies
Ready To Buy
Specs
Type | ||
BI TURBO CDI, TURBO DIRECT F/INJ, TURBO CDI | TURBO CDI | |
Size (cc) | ||
1996 - 2993 | 1898 - 2999 | |
Size (L) | ||
2.0L, 2.3L, 3.0L | 3.0L, 1.9L | |
Induction | ||
BI TURBO DIESEL 4, TURBO 4, DIESEL TURBO V6, DIESEL TURBO 4 | DIESEL TURBO 4 | |
Camshaft | ||
DUAL OVERHEAD CAM, VARIABLE DOUBLE OVERHEAD CAM | DUAL OVERHEAD CAM | |
Valves/Ports per Cylinder | ||
12 - 24 | 16 | |
Power | ||
125kW - 222kW | 110kW - 140kW | |
Power RPM | ||
3250 - 5900 | 3600 | |
Torque | ||
405Nm - 600Nm | 350Nm - 450Nm | |
Torque RPM | ||
1750 - 3350 | 1600 - 1800 | |
Bore Stroke | ||
- | - | |
Compression Ratio | ||
10 - 16.5 | 15.9 - 16.3 |