- The Isuzu D-Max Blade is a more capable trim of the midsize pickup developed by Walkinshaw.
- Styling modifications are combined with an upgraded suspension, new wheels and grippier tires.
- The rugged pickup will be exclusively available in Australia starting at AU$ 76,990 (US$ 51,024).
The recent spike in rugged trims of midsize pickups continues in Australia. The local arm of Isuzu collaborated with local engineering firm Walkinshaw, creating a more capable version of the recently facelifted D-Max called Blade. The truck benefits from styling and chassis upgrades that improve its off-road credentials, without any changes on the turbodiesel powertrain.
The Isuzu D-Max Blade is a direct rival to the locally-engineered Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior by Premcar, but could also serve as a cheaper alternative to the beefier Toyota Hilux GR Sport and Ford Ranger Raptor.
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Walkinshaw Automotive Group was solely responsible for the project, spending over three years in its development. According to the company, over a dozen prototypes covered 100,000 km (62,137 miles) of durability testing in Melbourne and Outback Australia.
Visually, the highlight of the Blade is the redesigned grille, featuring a satin black finish and an integrated curved LED lightbar on the lower section. The red scuff plate at the front is made of thicker steel, featuring Isuzu lettering and dual recovery points.
On the profile, the wide fender extensions emphasize the new 17-inch flow-formed alloy wheels, shod in grippy Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tires (275/65 R17). The truck also features a decal set, tubular side steps, and a sports bar.
More importantly, the locally-tuned suspension has been upgraded with 35mm MTV twin-tube dampers at the front, which are said to improve control and durability. Overall, the modifications bring a 29 mm (1.14 inch) lift compared to the stock version, resulting in a ground clearance of 244 mm (9.6 inches).
Walkinshaw didn’t change anything on the 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine, which generates the same 187 hp (140 kW / 190 PS) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque as in the rest of the lineup. The lack of a power boost was a conscious choice, as it would add a lot of cost in the project.
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Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic, with the help of a two-speed transfer case, an electronic rear differential lock, and a new Rough Terrain Mode. The midsize pickup has a 3.5-tonne towing capacity (braked) and a payload of 896 kg (1,975 lbs).
Interior modifications are limited to the Blade logo on the headrests, floor mats, and side sills. Finally, there is a numbered build plaque on the gear knob and in the engine bay.
The Isuzu D-Max Blade will be reach Australian dealers on November 1, priced from AU$76,990 (US$51,024) drive away. For comparison, the Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior costs AU$71,490 (US$47,407), while the Toyota Hilux GR Sport is priced at AU$79,271 (US$52,582). All of the aforementioned trucks are much cheaper than the Ford Ranger Raptor, which sells for a whooping AU$100,757 (US$66,835).
