The D-Max Blade is aimed at more adventurous buyers that like to explore far from  normal roads.

I’ve had one for a few weeks now and like all D-Max  Utes it does everything I ask of it without fuss. It’s so easy to live with every day.

Blade specific additions include:

• a 29mm lift, courtesy of new 35mm MTV twin-tube suspension tuned for local conditions.
• Larger wheel and tyre package of 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain
• 0mm steel bash plate, with integrated, rated, dual recovery points
• Integrated 112-Watt lightbar,
• Side steps and tub sports bar
• Lots of Blade bling
• And more.

Overall, the D-Max Blade looks pretty cool. Especially with the range of colours available.

It comes with the standard engine and transmission combination, which is good, but more power and torque would have been appreciated.

Cruising on the motorway, the Blade drives better than you would expect with less tyre noise and better steering response.

On dirt roads it simply goes about its business without fuss. On sand it excels.

The suspension is compliant and responsive.

The integrated nature of the addition’s shines. That’s what makes it worthwhile.

Pricing is from $80,900 its expensive but comparable to doing everything yourself.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Previous Motoring Minute Reviews

• Isuzu D-Max Blade revisited 2025
• We drive the Isuzu D-Max Blade for 2025
• Isuzu D-Max Blade 4WD Ute first drive

Readers can find more details about the D-Max BLADE – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max BLADE – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max BLADE – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

The D-MAX BLADE has strong competition with:

• Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior 
• Toyota HiLux Rogue
• Mazda BT-50 SP
• Ford Ranger Tremor 

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Here are my top three reasons why im such a big fan of the D-Max X-Terrain

First, it looks good. Especially in the Sunstone Orange colour I had. That contrasting with black grill, side steps, sports bar and tub roller cover really stands out. The matte grey 18 inch alloys also add to the appeal.

Second is the practical performance capability. The 3.0L turbo diesel engine is reliable, robust and will last for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. With 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque, it’s under stressed. This torque comes in from a low 1600 rpm.

This is combined with the 6sp Automatic transmission, 3500 kg tow rating and select on the go 4WD system.

There are more powerful Utes available, but the Isuzu 3.0L allows for easy driving no matter what the situation.

Third is the standard safety features. The D-Max was the first with a comprehensive suite of safety features across the range. They are still class leading.

Over the years I driven the D-Max X-Terrain in almost every situation you could think of. And every time the overall impression was that it’s so easy to live with and does everything without fuss.

Yes, the Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine, especially in the X-Terrain specification.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-Max X-Terrain – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max X-Terrain – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max X-Terrain – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

Buyers  could look at :   Kia Tasman,  Ford Ranger Tremor, Toyota HiLux Rogue, Nissan Navara Pro 4-X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 SP, Mitsubishi Triton GSR.

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

All designed to meet the draconian NVES rules imposed on manufacturers.

Available in a limited range of models both 2wd AND 4wd, I recently drove the 4WD X-Rider version.

This model sits somewhere in the middle of the range.

The main difference is the engine. With 120kW and 400Nm from 1600 – 2400 rpm its certainly less than buyers are used to.

It does come with an eight speed sports AT which helps cover for the loss of performance.

Isuzu also claim better fuel economy but its less than 1 l/100km and in real world situations that would probably be negated by working the engine harder.

Aart from slightly less kerb weight which means marginally more payload. The 2.2L and 3.0L Utes have the same GCM and towing ratings.

So, the question remains – Why would someone buy the 2.2L over the 3.0L version D-Max.

Well price is one reason. It’s about $2,000 cheaper before the usual costs.

CO2 emissions may be another. However, the difference is marginal at best.

So, my answer is that I really cant see any real reason why. For me I would take the 3.0L versions every time.

They have proved themselves to be robust, reliable long life engines.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications HERE. 

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Isuzu D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Potential choices could be Mazda BT-50 2.2L,  KGM Musso, FOTON Tunland, GWM Cannon,

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The thing I really like about Isuzu Utes is that they all come with the full set of safety features, right from the entry level model through to the top model.

They all come with wireless connectivity for smart phones and all have height and reach adjustments for the steering wheel

So the basics are covered. The X-Rider comes with:

• A soft cover and sports bar for the tub
• 10 inch infotainment system
• Black exterior and interior highlights

The fabric seats appear hard wearing, but the manual adjustment means that it’s a little difficult to find a really comfortable position.

The Ute I drove comes with the 3.0 litre 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine and a reliable 6 speed automatic transmission. Of course, dual range 4WD and a 3500 kg towing capacity.

The X-Rider comes with the upgraded rear springs that allows better payload with a slightly softer on road ride when unladen. Slightly is the key word here.

Priced at $59,500 plus the usual costs, the Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider is great value as you would expect from Isuzu

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX X-Rider  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-Rider – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the D-MAX X-Rider – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at:

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider 4WD Dual Cab Ute revisited appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The engine remains the familiar 3.0L turbo diesel with 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. This will run to all four wheels through a 6 Sp Aisin transmission and selectable 4WD. The Blade also retains the handy 3500 kg towing capacity.

On the launch we took the Blade over some interesting tracks at a 4WD park and some beach driving.

On my recent drive I was able to do more beach driving, lots of motorway cruising and some fast dirt road sections.

As I suspected it excels on the dirt roads. Its composed, with the larger diameter dampers soaking up most of the bumps. The steering is responsive and not prone to negative feedback from the potholes.

Priced from $76,990 drive away its getting up there in price and there is a lot of competition. However its definitely worth the test drive

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-Max Blade  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max Blade  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the D-Max Blade could also look at the following: Toyota HiLux GR Sport, Ford Ranger Tremor, Nissan Navara Pro 4X Warrior, Kia Tasman X-Pro, Mazda BT-50 SP, Mitsubishi Triton GSR

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia

The post Isuzu D-Max Blade revisited 2025 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

In other words, the most basic work Ute offered  by Isuzu. It’s priced from $32,490 drive away and that’s simply outstanding value.

The actual vehicle I drove has a few options added which took the price up to around $35,200 drive away

How is it you may ask. Well considering that as I get older, I like my space and little luxuries in my Utes. It’s been ok actually.

I can see a specific appeal for this vehicle. Especially for tradies that need  to carry bulk rather than weight.

Having said that the 2.55mtr long tray will fit most loads in it and the Ute has a 1400kg payload in manual version.

The issue here is that the 1.9L turbo diesel engine has only 110KW of power and 350Nm of torque available. It does struggle with a heavy load. I know this because I filled it with a load of recycled bricks and took then north on the freeway and it really struggled on hills.

Not everyone needs or wants a powerful diesel engine. The 1.9L Isuzu D-Max SX Cab Chassis provides a practical choice for workers that need basic Ute with a sterling reputation.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-Max SX   – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max SX – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 100 radio channels.  

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. 

Listeners can find this program weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max SX Single Cab Chassis 4X2 1.9L Ute review appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This comes with revised dampers and raised suspension, better off road tyres, more underbody protection and some cosmetic additions.

The engine remains the familiar 3.0L turbo diesel with 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. This will run to all four wheels through a 6 Sp Aisin transmission and selectable 4WD. The Blade also retains the handy 3500 kg towing capacity.

On the launch we took the Blade over some interesting tracks at a 4WD park and some beack driving.

On my recent drive I was able to do more beach driving, lots of motorway cruising and some fast dirt road sections.

As I suspected it excels on the dirt roads. Its composed, with the larger diameter dampers soaking up most of the bumps. The steering is responsive and not prone to negative feedback from the potholes.

Priced from $76,990 drive away its getting up there in price and there ios a lot of competition. However its definitely worth the test drive

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-Max Blade  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Ranger PHEV  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 100 radio channels.  

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. 

Listeners can find this program weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max Blade driven for 2025 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

I appreciate the power and responsiveness of the 3.0 litre turbo diesel engine. Its good around town, fairly economical and great for when you want to go on a longer trip. I averaged about 7.4 litres per hundred kilometres for the two weeks I had the Ute.

Being able to select from adaptive or normal cruise control is handy. Running boards make getting in easy.

I also like the interior comfort. Front heated leather seats provide plenty of support. Wireless Apple CarPlay is convenient, but I would like a wireless charging tray. There is room for it.

Rear seats are tight for taller people, but comfortable. There is a handy bag hook on the back of the front seats. There are 2 childseat tethers and ISO FIX compatible anchor points.

The X-Terrain is all about the look. With darkened alloys, decals, sports bar and hard roller cover for the tub.

This last one is as weatherproof as you can get. But it does have some limitations, like all covers.

Priced from $70,500 plus the usual costs its good value.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find everything you need to know about the D-Max X-Terrain HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-Terrain – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 100 radio channels.  

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. 

Listeners can find this program weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max X-TERRAIN 2025 model driven appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The thing I really like about Isuzu Utes is that they all come with the full set of safety features, right from the entry level model through to the top model.

They all come with wireless connectivity for smart phones and all have height and reach adjustments for the steering wheel

So the basics are covered. The X-Rider comes with:

• A soft cover and sports bar for the tub
• 10 inch infotainment system
• Black exterior and interior highlights

The fabric seats appear hard wearing, but the manual adjustment means that it’s a little difficult to find a really comfortable position.

The Ute I drove comes with the 3.0 litre 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine and a reliable 6 speed automatic transmission. Of course, dual range 4WD and a 3500 kg towing capacity.

The X-Rider comes with the upgraded rear springs that allows better payload with a slightly softer on road ride when unladen. Slightly is the key word here.

Priced at $59,500 plus the usual costs, the Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider is great value as you would expect from Isuzu

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX X-Rider  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-Rider – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 100 radio channels.  

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. 

Listeners can find this program weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2025 appeared first on Motoring Minute.