Toyota Hilux Vs. Isuzu D Max are raging minotaur that are known for crashing the pickup markets in Kenya. Needless to say, both of these vehicles offer dynamic features that can handle the rough terrains of Kenya. However, it doesn’t answer the age-old question—which one is best?
In this blog, Dominant Motoring will host the battle of Toyota Hilux Vs. Isuzu D Max and determine which pickup truck in Kenya holds the crown jewel.
Overview Of Both Pickups in Kenya
Before delving deep into both trucks, let’s briefly overview them. Starting with Isuzu D-max, manufactured in 2002 and a glorious successor of Isuzu Faster/KB. Additionally, the generational models are known to share platforms with many different car brands.
On the other hand, the Toyota Hilux is a top-notch pickup truck that has set a benchmark in the pickup industry since the early 70s—the robust vehicle features, towing, and off-roading capabilities make Hilux one of the best pickup trucks in Kenya.
But does it overpower the beastly Isuzu D-Max? Let’s find out.
Toyota Hilux
Toyota Hilux pickup trucks in Kenya, historically known as Hi-Lux, are a series of pickup trucks that are popular in many parts of the world, especially in Africa. The beastly pickup in Africa is on the top of the scale due to its versatility and higher resale value, but in order to process the battle, let’s go deeper into its specifications.
Specifications
As the most legendary pickup builder, the Toyota Hilux has vastly improved its luxuriousness and off-road abilities. The 2023 Hilux model demonstrates high-quality LED lights for better display of Kenyan rough terrains from Dusk till dawn. Additionally, the pickup is powered by a 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine that can easily grind to 164hp and a torque capacity of 360Nm.
Plus, the Toyota Hilux is manufactured with rigid frame structures, and its 4×4 features make the driver’s life easier—whether to drive up the hills or a suburb road, the versatility and style may never be dominated.
Jumping Inside the Toyota Hilux
If we take a tour inside a Toyota Hilux pickup in Kenya, people tend to witness a congested space with features spattered around the vehicle. However, if we speak on behalf of drivers, the workspace showcases an easy-to-adjust steering wheel, with optimum-height footrest and comfortable seat.
Plus, the power adjustment feature is optional according to its price margin, with a speedometer that might be difficult to see in direct sunlight.
The best part inside? Toyota Hilux showcases a double glove box for storing extra essentials in the pickup, along with bins and bottle holders equipped around all 4-doors.
Pricing
If we organize a competition between Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max in terms of pricing, surely Toyota will win the match. The basic price margin of the Toyota Hilux ranges from $26,475 – $75,310, while the price of Isuzu stretches from $32,200 – $70,500
Infotainment & Safety
Despite being a robust vehicle, this imported pickup truck in Mombasa is also equipped with countless infotainment and safety features, including:
- Touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- USB Ports
- Navigation System
- AM/FM Radio, CD Player, Digital Audio
- Six-Speaker Audio System
- Multi-Information Display (MID)
Passenger Space
If you are yet to carry a few passengers around the roads of Kenya for business, then your folks might feel discomfort in the rear seats. Despite effective off-roading capabilities, the Toyota Hilux fails to complement the rear passengers with space.
Towing Capacity
Toyota Hilux pickup trucks in Kenya dynamically support up to 3500kg towing capacity, enabling Kenyans to streamline their construction or home chores in the best manner.
Isuzu D-Max
Isuzu D-Max—a bull-like pickup truck in Nairobi that is ruling the roads of Africa. Manufactured first in 2002 and flourished a line of successful descendants through the years. From 1st generation classic to 3rd generation hyperbeast—Isuzu has come a long way.
Specifications
The Isuzu D Max showcases top-of-the-line features with premium interior and rugged tires. The Isuzu pickups in Kenya vary from the model. Isuzu D Max models are equipped with 3.0 liters, along with other models with 1.9-litre turbo diesel engines and 6-speed manual transmission. Moreover, the power is measured to be sent on all four wheels and tips the scales at 2,205kg.
What Does the Interior Say?
Comparatively, Isuzu D Max in Kenya features better interior seating and design than Hilux, but many drivers have reported the interior to be dark and conservative despite their preferences. Moreover, the pickup features an adjustable steering wheel for a rake with more reach than the Toyota Hi Lux.
In the language of drivers, they can encounter power-adjustable seats with trimmed leather to achieve extra comfort. However, the left footrest is set at an odd angle. Plus, It also comes with a 9-inch touchscreen with a basic presentation of digital features.
Despite the push button features on touchscreens, drivers are complemented with a few sets of buttons on the steering wheel for extra accessibility.
Pricing
In terms of price, the Isuzu D-Max sits between $32,200 and $70,500 depending on the model and features, slightly pricier than its competitor in some instances.
Payload Capacity
Where the Isuzu D-Max shines is in its payload capacity. Known for handling heavy loads, it has a payload rating of up to 1,235 kg, making it ideal for transporting goods across Nairobi and beyond.
Infotainment & Safety
Similar to the Hilux, the D-Max is equipped with a touchscreen system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple safety features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a rear-view camera.
Which Can Win the Off-Road Test?
The off-road test is the ultimate showdown to determine which vehicle is superior in handling the rugged landscapes of Kenya. We put both the Toyota Hilux Vs. Isuzu D Max through a series of challenges, testing their ability to handle tough off-road conditions. Let’s dive into each segment of the challenge and find out which pickup came out on top.
Brake Test – Winner: Isuzu D-Max
The brake test is crucial for any off-road vehicle, particularly when navigating steep descents or rocky trails. In this test, the Isuzu D-Max outperformed the Toyota Hilux by offering superior braking control. Despite weighing slightly more, the D-Max managed to stop quicker, offering greater stability and precision, which are essential when descending rugged Kenyan hillsides. The D-Max’s brakes responded efficiently, minimizing the skidding that often occurs on slippery terrain.
However, the Hilux was not far behind in this test, showing that it, too, is capable of handling abrupt stops. While the D-Max proved to have better control during the brake test, the Hilux still managed to demonstrate good stability, ensuring that it remains a solid contender for drivers needing reliable stopping power. Both vehicles have excellent braking systems, but the D-Max had the edge in this challenge.
Safest & Slowest Vehicle to Descend the Hill – Winner: Toyota Hilux
When it comes to descending steep hills, being slow and steady is essential to maintaining control and avoiding dangerous slips. In this challenge, the Toyota Hilux showcased its superior hill descent control, moving at a slower, more measured pace compared to the Isuzu D-Max. The Hilux engaged its advanced hill descent control system, which kept it moving at a minimal speed, giving the driver maximum control.
In contrast, the Isuzu D-Max descended the hill faster, but it lacked the same level of precision and control demonstrated by the Hilux. Although it handled the descent fairly well, the faster speed made it feel less safe for particularly challenging terrain. In this off-road test, the Hilux’s controlled descent made it the safer and more reliable option, particularly for drivers looking to navigate steep Kenyan hillsides.
Chassis Articulation & Ground Clearance on Muddy Track – Winner: Toyota Hilux
Mud is often the true test of a vehicle’s chassis articulation and ground clearance. In this segment, both vehicles faced the challenge of navigating a muddy track, where getting stuck or losing control is a real risk. The Toyota Hilux excelled in this test thanks to its better ground clearance and more effective chassis articulation. The vehicle managed to glide over the mud without touching the ground, maintaining traction and stability throughout the challenge.
The Isuzu D-Max, although capable, had a slightly tougher time navigating the muddy track. While it performed admirably, the lower ground clearance meant that it came into contact with the terrain more often than the Hilux. This resulted in a less smooth performance, with the D-Max struggling to maintain the same level of traction. The Hilux proved to be the better vehicle for muddy conditions, offering better overall control and ground clearance.
Drag Race Between Toyota Hilux & Isuzu D-Max – Winner: Toyota Hilux
A drag race might seem more suited to sports cars, but it’s also a great way to test a pickup’s power and acceleration, particularly on rugged terrain. In this race, the Toyota Hilux easily outpaced the Isuzu D-Max. With its more powerful 2.8-liter turbocharged engine delivering 204 horsepower, the Hilux surged ahead of the D-Max, which struggled to keep up with its smaller 1.9-liter engine producing 164 horsepower.
The Hilux’s superior horsepower and torque (500Nm compared to the D-Max’s 360Nm) gave it the edge in this race. On uphill and uneven terrain, the Hilux demonstrated better power delivery, which allowed it to cross the finish line first. While the Isuzu D-Max offered a decent fight, it simply couldn’t match the raw power of the Hilux in this head-to-head drag race.
Verdict: Toyota Hilux Takes the Crown
After a series of rigorous off-road tests, it’s clear that the Toyota Hilux edges out the Isuzu D-Max as the better overall vehicle for handling Kenya’s toughest terrains. The Hilux performed better in the chassis articulation, ground clearance, and drag race challenges, showcasing its power and off-road abilities. That said, the Isuzu D-Max is far from being an underdog—it outperformed the Hilux in the brake test and remains a reliable, durable option, particularly for those prioritizing payload capacity.
If you’re looking for a pickup truck in Nairobi that delivers the best all-around off-road performance, the Toyota Hilux is the clear winner. However, the Isuzu D-Max is still a strong contender, especially for businesses needing a truck with excellent braking control and heavy payload capabilities.
Toyota Hilux Pickups By Dominant Motoring
This model is designed to balance rugged off-road capability with city-friendly performance, making it a versatile choice for the modern driver. Priced at $24,800, this 2023 Hilux Revo Rocco features a 2400cc diesel engine and 2WD drivetrain. Its mileage of only 4,307 km means you’re getting a nearly new vehicle, perfect for navigating both urban streets and rural landscapes. The Revo Rocco’s automatic transmission, sleek black exterior, and premium features such as leather seats, a sunroof, and a push-start system offer a luxurious driving experience.
For off-road enthusiasts in Kenya, the Toyota Hilux Revo Rocco offers the resilience needed to tackle rough terrain yet remains practical for daily use.
For those who prioritize durability and efficiency, the 2022 Toyota Hilux Double Cab is a strong choice. This model, priced at $24,500, is equipped with a 2400cc diesel engine, offering solid power for a 2WD vehicle. The automatic transmission ensures easy handling, while the sleek grey exterior adds a touch of sophistication to its rugged appearance. This truck has 25,000 km on the odometer, showing it’s been used lightly but is ready for many more adventures.
Isuzu D-Max By Dominant Motoring
The 2022 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 4WD is built for serious off-road adventures and heavy-duty tasks. With a 3000cc engine and 4WD capability, this pickup is perfect for navigating challenging terrains. Priced at $28,500, this grey-colored model has a modest mileage of 29,400 km, making it a robust and reliable choice. The D-Max features automatic transmission, keyless entry, push-start ignition, and other luxury touches like a leather interior and navigation system.
If you’re seeking a more economical option that still offers the reliability and strength of the D-Max line, the 2020 Isuzu D-Max 2.0 2WD is a great fit. Priced at $21,500, this model is powered by a 2000cc diesel engine and automatic transmission, making it a practical and budget-friendly choice for city driving or light off-road use. With 93,000 km on the clock, this truck has proven its reliability but still offers plenty of life for future endeavors.
Conclusion
In the battle between the Toyota Hilux Vs. Isuzu D Max, the Hilux came out on top, thanks to its off-road prowess and overall performance. However, Isuzu D-Max isn’t far behind and remains a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable and robust pickup truck in Kenya.
