Jan 20th, 2025
After 3 years of development, Isuzu’s toughest, rugged off-road D-MAX vehicle is finally about ready to hit the Australian market—the Isuzu D-MAX Blade. It builds on the D-Max LS-U+, one of the best and most reliable utes available in Australia—with better handling, strength, performance and road clearance. The Isuzu D-Max Blade for 2025 delivers what the people have been asking for since the D-MAX first launched in 2020: a tough off-roading, bush-bashing truck that can take it all.
The Isuzu D-Max Blade 2025 is a flagship model developed in collaboration with Walkinshaw Automotive, specifically tailored for the Australian market. Isuzu gave them a brief to improve off-road handling, ground clearance, underbody protection, approach angle, lighting, and the visual presentation of the dual-cab ute—all while not compromising anything with what the current D-MAX could deliver in capability or design. Walkinshaw Automotive delivered.
With a focus on off-road performance and aesthetics, this ute features enhancements in suspension, styling, and protective elements, while retaining the reliable 3.0L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The Blade also introduces upgrades such as 35mm Monroe twin-tube dampers for improved handling, a bold exterior redesign including an integrated 112W LED light bar, and bespoke decals and badging. Despite retaining the LS-U+ interior layout, it includes additional comfort features like dual-zone climate control, leather seats, and a 9.0-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Backed by Isuzu’s 6-year/150,000km warranty and 7 years of roadside assistance, the Blade also offers a robust aftersales package. However, its interior design, dominated by plastics,
Isuzu Motors is a Japanese multinational automobile manufacturer with headquarters in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. Under this banner, Isuzu owns many subsidiaries, including Isuzu UTE Australia, which acts as its base of operations in Australia.
The company has over 40,000 employees worldwide, over 150 countries with areas of operations, and 3.4 trillion yen in net sales.
Isuzu is renowned for their innovative powertrains, trucks, and industrial diesel engines; as well as their strong commitment to creating more cost-effective, high performing, and fuel efficient engines.
Isuzu’s Australian base of operations was founded in 2008. It was in this year as well that Isuzu introduced the revolutionary and award-winning Isuzu D-MAX to our shores. Isuzu UTE Australia specialises in vehicles that we as a nation seem to love - utes and SUVs. Now two of the largest segments in Australia’s automotive market.
There’s now over 160 authorised Isuzu UTE outlets across Australia, with locations across every state and territory.
Isuzu UTE Australia teamed up with the Walkinshaw Automotive Group to convert, engineer and test the Isuzu D-Max to be suitable for Australia Design Rules, road rules and performance standards. This includes of course, off-road performance for dirt roads, nature treks and recreational off-roading enthusiasts.
Walkinshaw’s name carries weight in Australian automotive history, with roots in HSV and the Holden Racing Team. Now, they’re known for converting RAM and Chevrolet Silverado trucks to right-hand drive and building performance utes like the HSV SportsCat and VW Amarok W-Series. The Blade is their latest venture.
Walkinshaw revamped the D-MAX Blade’s exterior and chassis while keeping the factory 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine intact. The grille now sports a bold Isuzu logo with a hexagonal pattern, complemented by a 112W light bar. New wheel arch flares, tubular side steps, and a unique 17-inch wheel and tyre package enhance its rugged stance.
The Blade sits higher with a 29mm lift kit, Monroe MT-V dampers, and Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tyres—the first production vehicle to feature these as standard. Its 3mm steel bash plate and load-rated recovery system further bolster its durability.
Despite its rugged upgrades, the Blade retains a 3.5-tonne towing capacity and nearly 900kg payload, proving it’s not just for show. After three years of development and 100,000km of testing—including Outback trials—Walkinshaw ensured the modifications didn’t compromise performance, particularly cooling.
The Blade excels off-road, offering greater ground clearance and improved traction thanks to its tyres and standard features like low range, a locking rear diff, and traction control. It handles challenging terrains with ease, tackling ledges, potholes, and steep climbs without breaking a sweat.
The D-Max, now renowned for its versatility, was sold in Australia and New Zealand as the third-generation Holden Rodeo (RA) from 2003 to 2008. Following a facelift, it was rebranded as the Holden Colorado due to the GM-Isuzu split, which saw GM lose rights to the "Rodeo" name. Like the Rodeo, the Colorado was offered in both two- and four-wheel-drive configurations, with body styles including single cab, space cab, and crew cab. Engine options included a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, the Australian-made 3.6-litre Alloytec V6, and a 3.0-litre Isuzu 4JJ1 diesel engine. A key distinction between the Rodeo and the Colorado was the redesigned front-end bodywork starting from the A-pillar. In October 2008, the Isuzu D-Max made its Australian debut alongside the Holden Colorado. The D-Max was marketed under the banner of Isuzu UTE Australia, and it operated independently of Isuzu's medium-heavy truck division in the region. By June 2012, the Holden Colorado RC series was succeeded by the updated RG model, reflecting ongoing advancements in the lineup.
Isuzu UTE Australia revealed in documents their plans for the details of the Isuzu D-Max Blade for 2025. Not much about the styling of the interior has changed, but the next-generation of the Blade has been enhanced for comfort, convenience and functionality.
The Isuzu D-Max Blade 2025 has plenty of room inside the cabin and in the boot, to comfortably carry 5 adults plus luggage.
Leather seating is another luxe feature in the car for added comfort. However, with the amount of plastic in the cabin, some criticise that despite the leather seats, the interior doesn’t ‘feel’ premium.
The D-Max Blade has a 9.0 inch infotainment system that supports features like Apple CarPlay and Android Audio. With 8 speaker stereos for an improved audio experience. It also has Bluetooth, digital DAB+ radio, and voice recognition.
The infotainment touchscreen also comes with access to the Isuzu Terrain Command 4x4 drive modes, a digital inclinometer, as well as a digital tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
The vehicle will also come with separate climate control zones for both the driver and front passenger. Providing both individuals at the front with better temperature and air flow control, according to their preferences.
The Isuzu D-Max Blade has a keyless entry and start, for better convenience and an easier, luxurious start.
Three 3.0-amp USB-C ports (two in the front, and one rear) give more access to charging for devices, for more people in the car.
Price
$76,990 on-road (introductory price)
Drive-away price
$76,990
Rivals
Ford Ranger Tremor, Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior, Toyota HiLux Rogue & Toyota HiLux GR Sport
Engine
3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
Power
140kW @ 3600rpm
Torque
450Nm @ 1600-2600rpm
Drive type
Part-time four-wheel drive
Low-range transfer case
Yes
Transmission
6-speed torque converter automatic
Power-to-weight ratio
63.5kW/t
The Isuzu D-Max Blade 2025 so far has a drive away price of $76,990 (the most expensive D-Max yet).
This is an introductory price — a special limited time discounted price that rewards early adopters of the Isuzu D-Max Blade as it first comes onto the market. There’s no notice or information when this introductory price will end though, or how much differently the price will change once it does.
Compared to its main rivals’ 2025 offerings, it is on the more expensive side.
Like all new Isuzu vehicles, the Isuzu D-Max Blade comes with 5 years of fixed-price servicing (up to 75,000km) or 6 years (or 150,000km) of warranty, along with 7 years of roadside assistance.
The first five scheduled services, set at intervals of either 12 months or 15,000 km, are priced at a fixed rate of $449 each, totaling $2,245 over five years. However, Isuzu's servicing program classifies certain components, such as fuel filters, as 'additional maintenance items,' which may incur extra costs beyond the capped-price arrangement when needed.
Comparing top anticipated utes in Australia for 2025
| Category | Ford Ranger Tremor 2025 | Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior 2025 | Toyota Hilux Rogue 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $69,690 | $73,490 (Drive Away) | $70,760 (Rogue) / $71,530 (Rogue 48V) |
| Warranty | Five years/unlimited kilometre | Five years on base vehicle; Premcar matches Nissan’s five-year warranty on conversion | Five years/unlimited kilometre; extends to seven years if serviced on time within Toyota dealer network |
| Engine | 2.0L four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel producing 150kW at 3750rpm and 500Nm at 1750-2000rpm | 2.3L twin-turbo diesel, DOHC producing 140kW at 3750rpm and 450Nm at 1500-2500rpm | 2.8L four-cylinder turbo-diesel with 48V mild-hybrid assist, producing 150kW and 500Nm |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic with manual mode | 6-speed automatic |
| 4WD System | Full-time 4WD (2H, 4H, 4L, 4A modes) | Dual Range 4x4 with electronic 4WD selection | Four-wheel drive |
| Drive Modes | Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand | Sport, Off-Road, Tow, Normal | High range: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow; Low range: Auto, Sand, Mud, Rock |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7L/100km | 7.5L/100km (manual), 8.1L/100km (automatic) | 7.2-7.8L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80L | 80L | 80L |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 5370mm x 2208mm x 1914mm | 5350mm x 1920mm x 1895mm | 5260-5330mm x 1800-2020mm x 1750-1880mm |
| Wheelbase | 3270mm | 3150mm | 3085mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2419kg | 2289kg (manual), 2298kg (automatic) | Not specified |
| Ground Clearance | 244mm (front) and 215mm (rear axle low point) | 260mm | 265 mm |
| Towing Capacity | 750kg (unbraked), 3500kg (braked) | 750kg (unbraked), 3500kg (braked), 350kg maximum towball download | 750kg (unbraked), 3500kg (braked for 4x4), 2800kg (4x2 diesels), 2500kg (petrol) |
| Payload | 948kg | 961kg (manual), 952kg (automatic) | 780-1310kg |
| Safety Rating | Five-star ANCAP (2022 testing) base model | Not Rated | Five-star ANCAP (July 2019 testing) base model |
| Safety Features | Nine airbags, AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, reversing camera | AEB, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, front-centre airbags | AEB (pedestrian and cyclist detection), adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, brake-based lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, parking sensors |
| Wheels/Tyres | 17" alloy wheels, General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres | 17" cast aluminium alloy wheels, 275/70/R17 Cooper Discoverer All-Terrain AT3 tyres | Not Specified |
| Off-Road Features | Locking rear differential, Rock Crawl Mode, Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist, off-road driver-assist tech | Suspension lift (40mm), wider track (30mm), upgraded dampers and springs, LED lightbar, redesigned towbar for full-size spare wheel | Ventilated rear disc brakes, wider tracks, wider wheel arch flares |
The Toyota HiLux GR Sport roars ahead with unmatched engine performance and a modest boost in payload capacity, while the Isuzu D-Max Blade, crafted in partnership with Walkinshaw Automotive, flexes its muscles with premium off-road capabilities. Deciding between these two powerhouses boils down to what you value most: raw power and payload or precision-engineered off-road prowess.
Based off the previous performance of D-MAX vehicles in sales against the serial ‘Best Selling Vehicle in Australia of the Year’ winners the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux, it’ll be tough. But not impossible.
The Isuzu D-MAX was the top #4 selling vehicle in Australia between Jan - Jun 2024, with the Ford Ranger in top #1 and the Toyota HiLux was #2.
However, with this is a new offering by Isuzu D-MAX and the collaboration by Aussie Walkinshaw Automotive for performance may justify the price enough. The D-Max Blade’s pricing places it at the higher end of the ute market. Its premium cost compared to most HiLux variants, including the Rogue and SR5, may also pose a challenge in winning price-sensitive buyers. However, its position as a rugged, Walkinshaw-tuned off-roader might justify the cost for buyers prioritising exclusivity and off-road capabilities over brand familiarity.
To compete effectively, the D-Max Blade would need to emphasise its unique features and justify its price as a premium option in the segment.
Based on the introductory $76,990 drive away price.
| 6% p.a. | 8% p.a. | 10% p.a. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Repayment (AUD) | $1,488.43 | $1,561.08 | $1,635.81 |
Monthly Repayment (AUD)
6% p.a.
$1,488.43
8% p.a.
$1,561.08
10% p.a.
$1,635.81
Isuzu D-MAX Isuzu Car Loans Eligibility
Minimum age: 18 yearsAustralian citizenship or permanent residencyStable incomeSatisfactory credit score*More terms and conditions based on the loan and vendor
Ready to hit the road in your Isuzu D-MAX Blade? Getting a car loan has never been this effortless—or this smart—thanks to Loanoptions.Ai. Just hop onto our car loan comparison calculator, pop in your details, and let our platform do the heavy lifting, matching you with tailored loan options designed to fit your lifestyle and maximise your approval chances.
But here’s where it gets exciting: our AI doesn’t stop at surface-level numbers. Sure, interest rates matter, but we dive deeper—analysing extra costs, loan durations, terms, and even how you plan to use your new wheels. It’s transparency like you’ve never seen, giving you the confidence to make decisions that actually work for you. Plus, we make the process refreshingly simple, helping you input your details with ease and securely stacking up loan options that put your personal advantages in the driver’s seat.
And with our experienced finance brokers in your corner, you’ll have a team that understands how to turn your financial circumstances into an advantage. All you need to do is start the process—and soon, the keys to your Isuzu D-MAX Blade will be in your hand. Let’s make it happen!
Looking ahead to financing your 2025 Isuzu D-MAX Blade? While pricing and availability details are still under wraps, it's never too early to explore your options for making this powerhouse yours when it hits the Australian market. Here's a quick breakdown of the key financing options to consider:
A secured car loan often offers better interest rates by using your vehicle as collateral, reducing the lender’s risk. It’s a great choice if you're sticking to a standard setup for your D-MAX Blade. However, if you plan to deck it out with aftermarket upgrades or extra gear, these may not be covered and could require additional financing. On the other hand, an unsecured car loan offers flexibility without tying the loan directly to your car but typically comes with higher interest rates.
Looking to lower your monthly repayments? A balloon payment plan could work. It lets you pay smaller amounts throughout the term, with a larger lump sum due at the end. While this keeps cash flow manageable, it’s essential to plan for that final payment—or consider refinancing options when the time comes.
If your employer offers salary packaging, a novated lease could make sense. This allows repayments to come from your pre-tax income, reducing your taxable earnings. Many leases also bundle running costs like fuel and maintenance, saving you GST and making ownership more convenient.
Business owners or self-employed individuals planning to use the D-MAX Blade for work more than half the time should explore chattel mortgages. These business loans offer tax benefits, including deductions for interest and depreciation, making them a practical choice for work vehicles. For primarily personal use, low-documentation loans simplify the process, cutting down on paperwork.
Take charge of the off-road adventure with the Isuzu D-MAX Blade. With tailored financing options like secured or unsecured loans, balloon payments for budget-friendly monthly costs, and novated leases for tax-smart salary packaging, Loanoptions.Ai helps you hit the ground running.
No matter your needs, our streamlined platform ensures you’re matched with the best deal. Start your journey to owning the D-MAX Blade today—your next adventure awaits!
Julian Fayad
12:37pm May 30th, 2024
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