Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus vs. Toyota Hilux-E | Game of Looks and Functionality
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Auto Plus and the Toyota Hilux E, both pickups boast solid reliability and rugged capability, but they appeal to quite different crowds. The Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus is essentially a lighter, city-friendly sibling of the more rugged X-Terrain, specifically crafted for fuel efficiency in city and highway driving. Although practical and stylish, it remains less popular among buyers compared to its rival. The Toyota Hilux E, meanwhile, enjoys widespread popularity, thanks to its straightforward, no-frills build that’s entirely focused on durability and commercial use.
Engine and Performance
The Isuzu’s engine is smaller but dependable—like a hardworking friend who never complains. Toyota’s engine is bigger and stronger, promising more power on rough roads. The Isuzu offers enough horsepower for regular driving and occasional adventures. However, Toyota provides significantly more power, meaning it’s quicker and stronger.
| Feature | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Auto Plus | Toyota Hilux E |
| Engine Model | RZ4E-MID | 1GD-FTV |
| Displacement | 1898 cc | 2755 cc |
| Max Output | 148 HP @ 3600 rpm | 198 HP @ 3400 rpm |
| Max Torque | 350 Nm @ 1800–2600 rpm | 420 Nm @ 1600–2800 rpm |
| Turbocharger | Turbo with Intercooler | Turbo with Intercooler |
| Fuel System | Common Rail Direct Injection | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic Sequential | 6-Speed Manual |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive (4×2) | Part-Time 4WD (4×4) |
| Emission Standard | Euro-2 | Euro-2 |
Dimensions
When it comes to road presence and utility, both trucks offer serious scale. The D-Max stretches longer, but Hilux lifts higher for those off-the-grid adventures.
| Feature | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Auto Plus | Toyota Hilux E |
| Length | 5300 mm | 5335 mm |
| Width | 1870 mm | 1800 mm |
| Height | 1810 mm | 1815 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3125 mm | 3090 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 310 mm | 286 mm |
| Turning Radius | 6.25 m | 6.7 m |
| Curb Weight | 1990 kg | 1995 kg |
Interior Features
Inside, the Isuzu D-Max clearly wins the style battle, offering a modern, attractive dashboard, comfortable seats, and updated technology that feels fresh and inviting. Meanwhile, the Toyota Hilux stays firmly old-school, with a straightforward, durable interior that emphasizes practicality over style. It’s functional, but the D-Max’s modern approach feels much nicer for everyday use.
| Feature | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Auto Plus | Toyota Hilux E |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Seat Material | Black Leather | Fabric |
| Infotainment | 8″ Touchscreen w/ Android Auto, CarPlay | MP3 Player |
| Climate Control | Dual-Zone Auto A/C with Climate Control | No |
| Rear A/C Vents | Yes | No |
| Rear Camera | Equipped | No |
| Keyless Entry/Start | Yes (PESS, Push Start) | No |
| Power Windows | Auto Up/Down (Driver), Jam Protection | No |
Exterior Features
Choosing between these two trucks based on looks is truly down to personal preference. The Hilux E has a straightforward, practical appearance—it looks very much like a commercial pickup truck built purely for function.
| Feature | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Auto Plus | Toyota Hilux E |
| Headlamps | Bi-LED Projector with Manual Levelling | Halogen |
| Fog Lamps | LED Front and Rear | Front Fog Lamps |
| Roof Rails | Equipped | Not Equipped |
| Side Mirrors | Power Adjustable & Retractable + LED | Power Adjustable + LED |
| Tailgate | Center Pull Handle w/ Key Cylinder | Manual |
| Wheels | 265/60R18 Alloy | 225/70R17C Steel |
| Bed Liner | Equipped | Equipped |
Safety Features
Both trucks come armed with robust safety gear, but the D-Max throws in a bit more electronic muscle—especially with Brake Over Ride system and Hill Controls.
| Feature | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Auto Plus | Toyota Hilux E |
| Airbags | 2 | 2 |
| ABS + Emergency Brake Signal | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control (TCS) | Yes | No |
| Stability Control (ESC/VSC) | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist (HSA) | Yes | No |
| Hill Descent Control (HDC) | Yes | No |
| Trailer Sway Control (TSC) | Yes | No |
| Brake Override System (BOS) | Yes | No |
| Immobilizer + Alarm | Yes | No |
| ISOFIX | Yes | No |
This was it for today’s blog. Overall, we think looks and features wise, D-Max is miles ahead than Hilux-E. It is modern, has more features and design is also appealing to eyes than Hilux-E. However, if your requirements are mostly work related and you only want a strong work machine, Hilux-E is always a recommended option. It just doesn’t have some high-end specs like the Revo variants, but a good machine to go from point A to B with a lot of load.