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?
Isuzu D-Max vs Volkswagen Amarok Comparison
Isuzu D-Max
Deal Available!
Volkswagen Amarok
Deal Available!
2024 Isuzu
D-Max
vs
2024 Volkswagen
Amarok
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
8.1
8.2
0.0
Based on the Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ (4x4)
Based on the Volkswagen Amarok AVENTURA TSI452 4MOTION
Best suitable for...
Driving the family
Long distance driving
Towing
Fuel Efficiency
76L
509 to 608 km
80L
576 to 792 km
ANCAP Safety Rating
Warranty
6 year
warranty
warranty
5 year
warranty
warranty
MSRP
$32,200 - $78,900
$55,490 - $82,990
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CarExpert's Take
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
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
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
- Mica Paint (+$650)
- Metallic Paint (+$990)
- Savona Leather Interior (+$3,100)
Colours Available
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)
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)
Comparison
2020 Isuzu D-Max v Volkswagen Amarok V6
Reviews
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
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
Ready To Buy
Specs
Type | ||
TURBO CDI | BI TURBO CDI, TURBO DIRECT F/INJ, TURBO CDI | |
Size (cc) | ||
1898 - 2999 | 1996 - 2993 | |
Size (L) | ||
3.0L, 1.9L | 2.0L, 2.3L, 3.0L | |
Induction | ||
DIESEL TURBO 4 | BI TURBO DIESEL 4, TURBO 4, DIESEL TURBO V6, DIESEL TURBO 4 | |
Camshaft | ||
DUAL OVERHEAD CAM | DUAL OVERHEAD CAM, VARIABLE DOUBLE OVERHEAD CAM | |
Valves/Ports per Cylinder | ||
16 | 12 - 24 | |
Power | ||
110kW - 140kW | 125kW - 222kW | |
Power RPM | ||
3600 | 3250 - 5900 | |
Torque | ||
350Nm - 450Nm | 405Nm - 600Nm | |
Torque RPM | ||
1600 - 1800 | 1750 - 3350 | |
Bore Stroke | ||
- | - | |
Compression Ratio | ||
15.9 - 16.3 | 10 - 16.5 |