Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain v D-Max Blade v Hilux Rogue

JumpingUnicorns on 12/01/2025 - 17:05

I am turning to the wise world of OzB and their endless knowledge.

I'm up for a new car, want a ute and one that can fit a baby seat in the back. I've narrowed it down to the 2024 versions of the following. D-Max X-Terrain, D-Max Blade, Hilux Rogue.

I would either straight away or eventually have it lifted with some all terrain tyres hence the inclusion of the Blade.

What would OzB do?

We do a little bit of offroading, camp a fair bit, boat when I can and just generally like the flexibility of having a ute.

The local Mazda dealer here didn't have a single BT-50 I could look at except for the base model… so I haven't included the BT. But the BT-50 Thunder looked nice.

I think a Ranger is out of my budget. $65k - $75k

Poll included.

Poll Options

  • 2
    Blade
  • 4
    Rogue
  • 18
    Something else
  • 4
    X-Terrain
Automotive Isuzu Toyota Ute

Comments

  • BOGOF on 12/01/2025 - 17:11
    +8

    What would OzB do?

    Buy a Camry.

  • geekcohen on 12/01/2025 - 17:27

    D-Max Blade

    At $76,990 drive-away. So if you are looking at a Blade, a Ranger would fit your budget?

    I have a PX3 Ranger (the one before Next Gen) and it is great. I have two kids and have seats in there no problem (even when rear facing). Very happy with it. I have the 3.2L Diesel and I tow Caravan (1.6 tonne) and 8x5 Trailer. The new ranger, go a V6 for your requirements on towing.

    Next Gen Ranger is bigger than the previous version in width and seats, so you might find it suitable.

    • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 07:44

      The Blade already comes lifted and a few extra after market options which I would probably want. Will look into the Ranger a bit more though

      • geekcohen on 13/01/2025 - 08:14

        Maybe consider the Ranger Tremor which is also lifted and AT tyres. It is only the Bi-Turbo, but still good. The V6 I am told is better overall, more punchy. But I am sure plenty of people still tow with the Bi-Turbo.

        I have the equivalent to the previous ranger which they referred to an FX4. With weight in the canopy and towing, the extra suspension helps. I probably need a GVM upgrade as it is borderline at times, but I won't be bothering. Maybe the next ute I will do that. I got new tyres recently and put ATs on, very happy with them and overall ride.

        • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 08:49

          Tremor does look nice, only drawback for me is the Bi-Turbo 2.0L engine. Plan on having this for a while so would want it to be very comfortable towing.

          • geekcohen on 13/01/2025 - 09:01

            @JumpingUnicorns: Yes, I think that is the biggest let down is the engine for the model. I got the 3.2L in the FX4, they also did that in a Bi-Turbo.

            You would need to price up base models with extras vs models with the extras to really know what is good pricing wise.

            The benefit of a Ranger is that anything ARB related is pretty much bolt on since it was designed with them side by side, so it makes things easier rather than going with TJM or someone else who had to build a solution with R&D.

            • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 09:25
              +1

              @geekcohen: Hmm yeah interesting. The Tremor with a 3.0L V6 TD comes in at just over $75k that's not a bad option really. Thank you for taking the time to reply. Very appreciated.

            • Euphemistic on 13/01/2025 - 09:41

              @geekcohen:

              The benefit of a Ranger is that anything ARB related is pretty much bolt on since it was designed with them side by side, so it makes things easier rather than going with TJM or someone else who had to build a solution with R&D

              That doesn't mean much. All models will have a parts partner. The 'factory' bolt ons will come from one of the main duppliers TJM, ARB, ironman etc.

              Then, a month or two after the model comes out every man and his dog will be selling a bolt on setup for the model. There must be a dozen different bullbars avaiable for my dmax along with almost as many rear bars and underbody protection kits.

              With modern CAD, 3D scanning and CNC machines it only takes a few days to build something to fit. Have seen one place offering a free bullbar (or side steps?) If they can borrow your car for a week to measure and test fit then build one. .

  • MS Paint on 12/01/2025 - 17:33
    +13

    If you like tailgating others then definitely upgrade to the Ranger.

  • Euphemistic on 12/01/2025 - 18:29

    Chsck the back seat of the hilux for room. I bought a dmax a while back and when deciding which ute ruled out the hilux as the back seat wasnt comfy for me. Too close to the roof from memory so no good for tall kids or mates. The dmax had better rear seat space. I was comparing the old model BT/Ranger with Dmax - both used at the time as new stock was non existent.

    Theres a new hilux coming, not sure exactly when. Might affect your decision. Potential stock runouts with the current and changes in resale value if its the 'old' one.

    BT50 and Dmax are twins under the skin (in case you didnt already know). So if you test drive one, the other will be very similar. Check out the base model, drive the Dmax. Check the spec sheet and decide which is a preference. If i was buying new when i bought the dmax it probably would have been very close between the BT and Dmax

    • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 07:46

      Back seat is honestly almost the #1 requirement. Have 1 12 month old and definitely want another so two child seats being able to fit is a must.

      I looked at the Navara and couldn't believe how small the back seat was. D-Max seemed to have the best with Hilux close behind it

  • pegaxs on 12/01/2025 - 18:32
    +1

    BYD Shark and pocket the change. EV for around town/going to work saves money on fuel. Combined ICE and EV for towing. 240v outlets to run a real "camping air conditioner…"

    • Brick Tamland on 12/01/2025 - 18:47
      +1

      Real camping doesn't require bringing an air conditioner. Just enjoy air conditioned by nature

  • Jimothy Wongingtons on 12/01/2025 - 18:43

    Me Smashing that +1 on that mf hilux rogue

    • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 07:49

      They are nice haha, pretty stock though when you look at the Blade coming lifted and upgraded suspension. To get the same setup on the Rogue I'd have to spend more $$

  • Protractor on 12/01/2025 - 19:40
    +1

    Isuzu, whichever one you narrow down to. (Personally I'd go basic and kit it our from scratch, rather than use their off the shelf stuff and then upgrade later anyway.)
    Purely based on the drive-train reliability factor, and if you intend to keep it for some time.
    Plus you can get a lot of spares and accessories affordable ex Thailand .(They love them over there, and some of their local bling isn't available here)
    The Mazda has the same engine (I assume tranny too?) so there's always that option.
    Ranger? Yeah nah.

    • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 09:21

      Price difference between the X-Terrain and the Blade is $9k so I'm trying to figure out if the differences are worth that extra $. The Blade is a limited edition so re-sell could be higher also?

      • Protractor on 13/01/2025 - 09:36

        You'll have to weigh up if the resale value is relevant compared to how long you will keep it I guess.
        You can buy a lot of good gear for 9K, which 'may' also add value. How you use the car and look after/service it is more relevant in resale value.
        9K spare gives you an opportunity to do mods all at once or staggered.And be selective with which ones you really want done.Also consider keeping the original wheels tyres for daily running and a separate set for the bush bashing stuff.

      • Euphemistic on 13/01/2025 - 09:37
        +1

        I canf imagine thebresale on the blade being any diffferent to a 'normal' model. Its not a massive step to set up an xterrain to be equal to a blade. Its just tyres, a lift and a sticker pack. If it was given a power boost there might be more takers.

  • brendanm on 12/01/2025 - 21:03
    +1

    Isuzu or bt50. Isuzu drivetrain which can generally be relied upon. Toyota overpriced for what it is, and engine is pretty average in my opinion. New ranger V6 is an *throws up* old land rover design.

    • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 07:48

      Yeah the D-Max and BT-50 have the same engine which is nice. The Mazda dealer here not having a single BT to look at was a bit weird, I need to see it in the flesh which is why I haven't put it high on the list

      • Protractor on 13/01/2025 - 10:38

        Needs to be said, previous iterations of Isuzu 2.8L and 3L diesels easily reached >500K kms with very few major fails.
        Not sure about the latest,4JJ3? but Isuzus also run cleaner engines internally compared to other common brands.
        You'll appreciate that come oil changes.

  • ShortyX on 12/01/2025 - 23:02

    OP - have you looked at a Triton?

    • brendanm on 13/01/2025 - 00:11
      +2

      I believe OP is looking for a good vehicle.

      • ShortyX on 13/01/2025 - 18:07

        I was waiting for that. 😏 Fair call, not as good as the Hilux, Ranger or DMax but I picked up a 2018 MQ GLS in 2019 for $36k. It's been good for us but we don't tow anything, and at least the later models have upgraded the towing specs. And the 4H option (AWD) on wet roads or slippery surfaces is a unique feature.

        • brendanm on 13/01/2025 - 18:34

          That's fine, and at that price point seems ok, but build quality is pretty average and it couldn't pull a sailor off your sister.

    • JumpingUnicorns on 13/01/2025 - 07:47

      Nothing frightens a Triton but haven't really heard great things. So probably staying clear

      • Protractor on 13/01/2025 - 09:38
        +2

        Read some reviews from reputable reviewers. Between Nissan and Mits in this category (If I did /could not go Isuzu, I would go Mits. But that's me.Pretty sure Tritons super select? gets good mention quite often.

    • JumpingUnicorns on 17/01/2025 - 08:28

      Thats comparing the X-Rider not the X-Terrain. Have seen a lot of reviews saying the Tritons are definitely better. But I still don't think I can bring myself to getting one.

      • Euphemistic on 17/01/2025 - 09:21

        Triton's biggest selling point is the superselect 4x4 IMO. I dont know why others dont do it. Our old pathfinder had a similar system, but it wasnt available in the navara for some reason.

        When youve got an empty use it would be great to have eaith 4x4 on demand or 4x4 with a centre diff when driving wet roads. At times i need to flick mine to 4x4 to do a hill start, but i do want better tyres when these wear a bit more too.

  • Flutterby on 16/01/2025 - 21:32

    https://www.ramtrucks.com.au/ go hard, or go home.

    Can probably pick up a new hobby fetching horses around.

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