Toyota HiLux vs Isuzu D-Max
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Toyota HiLux starts from $33,990 before on-road costs, while the Isuzu D-Max opens at $41,243. That makes the Toyota HiLux the more affordable entry point by $7,253.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $37,389 and $45,367 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the Toyota HiLux and 86% for the Isuzu D-Max.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 3 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: lane keep assist, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Toyota HiLux stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Isuzu D-Max. The Isuzu D-Max counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Toyota HiLux uses a 2.8L 4-cyl Turbo-Diesel producing 150kW and 420Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a 4x2 layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.2 seconds.
The Isuzu D-Max responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The Toyota HiLux has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Toyota HiLux is 0.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Toyota HiLux measures 5,380mm long on a 3,085mm wheelbase, 95mm longer than the Isuzu D-Max at 5,285mm (3,125mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu D-Max generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the Isuzu D-Max leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,900kg. That 600kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 12.5m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,081/year for the Toyota HiLux and $1,910/year for the Isuzu D-Max. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Estimated annual total: $2,081 (Toyota HiLux) vs $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max). The Isuzu D-Max saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiLux) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. The Isuzu D-Max adds peace of mind with a longer 6-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max?
The Toyota HiLux is the cheapest at $33,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Isuzu D-Max by $7,253.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Isuzu D-Max uses the least fuel at 6.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Isuzu D-Max has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Isuzu D-Max has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Toyota HiLux makes the most power at 150kW. The Toyota HiLux is quickest to 100km/h in 10.2s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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