Isuzu D-MAX BLADE: Price and Specs Revealed for New Flagship D-Max

Isuzu D-MAX BLADE: Price and Specs Revealed for New Flagship D-Max

Isuzu has unveiled the D-MAX BLADE, developed in collaboration with Walkinshaw Automotive for Australian off-road conditions. Following over three years of development and testing, the D-MAX BLADE will be available for order from 1 November 2024 at an introductory price of $76,990 drive away.

The D-MAX BLADE has undergone testing covering 100,000 km across metropolitan Melbourne and off-road environments in Outback Australia. The powertrain features a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine delivering 140kW and 450Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with a 4x4 Terrain Command system offering 2-High, 4-High, and 4-Low modes.

The D-MAX BLADE provides a payload capacity of 896 kg and a braked towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, suitable for towing caravans, boats, or trailers.

The off-road capability of the D-MAX BLADE has been enhanced with locally developed features. The suspension has been lifted by 29mm, using Monroe 35mm MTV twin-tube dampers tuned for Australian conditions.

Various spring rates and damper tunes were evaluated, with the final configuration chosen for its balance of comfort and control. The dampers are 16.6 percent larger than standard, providing additional chassis control and durability.

The D-MAX BLADE is equipped with 17-inch satin black alloy wheels and 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tyres. The tyres have a triple-ply sidewall construction for puncture resistance and carry the 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) rating, making them suitable for hot and cold climates, including snow.

Walkinshaw Automotive played a role in tuning the D-MAX BLADE for Australian conditions. More than a dozen vehicle prototypes were developed for evaluation. Each component and modification underwent simulations, dynamic rig tests, and real-world evaluations. The BLADE features Walkinshaw-developed underbody protection upgraded to 3.0mm steel, and an 8-tonne load-rated recovery point system designed to brace the chassis rails.

The exterior of the D-MAX BLADE includes a satin black grille with ‘ISUZU’ lettering, a 112-watt lightbar integrated into the grille, wheel arch flares, satin black bumper cladding, and a chin spoiler. Tubular side steps are included in the design to improve grip and durability.

Design changes extend across the vehicle, with accents on the doors, mirrors, and tailgate. Satin black decals are used to highlight the bodylines, including the ‘Katana’ line running across the doors. The tailgate features ‘BLADE’ lettering and a satin black sports bar.

Inside, the D-MAX BLADE includes black headlining and BLADE-specific accents such as embroidered headrests, scuff plates, and floor mats. Leather-accented upholstery is used throughout, including stitched leatherette on door trims and the center console. The driver's seat is eight-way electrically adjustable with lumbar support, and the front seats offer heating options. Each BLADE unit is numbered with plaques on the transmission selector and in the engine bay.

The D-MAX BLADE comes equipped with a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, voice recognition, digital radio, and an eight-speaker audio setup.

Safety features include Isuzu's Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS), which has Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Trailer Sway Control. A rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines is also included.

The BLADE prototypes were tested through a 100,000 km program, including dynamic rig tests and real-world conditions across rough tracks such as the Gibb River Road in the Kimberley region. Additional testing took place at Walkinshaw's facility and the Lang Lang Proving Grounds in Victoria to verify durability.

The D-MAX BLADE is supported by Isuzu's Service Plus program, which includes a five-year capped-price servicing plan at $449 per year or per 15,000 km interval, a six-year/150,000 km warranty, and up to seven years of roadside assistance.

Available in four premium paint finishes—Moonstone White pearl, Basalt Black mica, Granite Grey mica, and Sunstone Orange mica—the D-MAX BLADE is priced at $76,990 drive away.

FAQ

When will the Isuzu D-MAX BLADE be available, and what is the price?

keyboard_arrow_down

The Isuzu D-MAX BLADE will be available for order from 1 November 2024 at an introductory price of $76,990 drive away.

What engine powers the Isuzu D-MAX BLADE, and what are its performance specs?

keyboard_arrow_down

The D-MAX BLADE features a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, delivering 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a 4x4 Terrain Command system offering 2-High, 4-High, and 4-Low modes.

How does the D-MAX BLADE cater to off-road driving?

keyboard_arrow_down

The D-MAX BLADE offers a 29mm suspension lift with locally tuned Monroe 35mm MTV dampers for improved control and comfort. It includes 17-inch alloy wheels with Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT tyres, underbody protection with 3.0mm steel plates, and an 8-tonne load-rated recovery point system.

What are the towing and payload capacities of the Isuzu D-MAX BLADE?

keyboard_arrow_down

The D-MAX BLADE has a braked towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, suitable for towing caravans, boats, or trailers. It offers a payload capacity of 896 kg.

What interior and tech features are included in the Isuzu D-MAX BLADE?

keyboard_arrow_down

The interior features leather-accented upholstery, heated front seats, a 9.0-inch touchscreen with wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system. Safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Trailer Sway Control.

What warranty and servicing support does the D-MAX BLADE offer?

keyboard_arrow_down

The D-MAX BLADE is backed by a six-year/150,000 km warranty, five-year capped-price servicing at $449 per service, and up to seven years of roadside assistance through Isuzu's Service Plus program.

Buy a Car!
Find your perfect car with ease – click for a free, seamless journey with CarSauce and Motor Scout!
Matt Brand
Matt Brand is the driving force behind CarSauce, having initially launched the YouTube channel "Matt Brand Cars" in 2020. With his unique blend of humor, distinctive style, and deep automotive knowledge, Matt quickly grew the channel to over 120,000 subscribers. Before founding CarSauce, Matt worked in Management Consulting at KPMG and in the Aviation industry, leveraging his Bachelor of Commerce from The University of Melbourne. His background in business and consulting, combined with his passion for cars, has shaped CarSauce into a trusted source for automotive news and reviews. As the founder, Matt continues to set the tone for the brand, blending entertainment with expertise.
Read more

Other

Isuzu

News

Isuzu D-MAX BLADE Teased Ahead of November 2024 Unveil

Isuzu D-MAX BLADE Teased Ahead of November 2024 Unveil

Isuzu UTE Australia will unveil the off-road-focused D-MAX BLADE on 1st November 2024, developed locally for Australian conditions.
Jacob Brooke
Sep 30, 2024 4:47 PM
2025 Isuzu MU-X TOUR MATE Unveiled with Towing and Touring Enhancements

2025 Isuzu MU-X TOUR MATE Unveiled with Towing and Touring Enhancements

Isuzu's 2025 MU-X TOUR MATE offers towing-focused features and value, with over $9,200 in optional accessories included for $73,990/
Jacob Brooke
Sep 30, 2024 4:25 PM
2024 Isuzu D-MAX Tour Mate Pricing and Details

2024 Isuzu D-MAX Tour Mate Pricing and Details

Isuzu Ute Australia introduces the 2024 D-MAX LS-U and LS-U+ Tour Mate with over $9000 in accessories for $69,990 and $73,990 drive-away.
Jacob Brooke
Aug 2, 2024 4:10 PM

Other car news

Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Edition: Off-Road Special Revealed

Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Edition: Off-Road Special Revealed

Volkswagen unveils the Amarok 10 Deserts Edition for Q2 2025, with off-road upgrades like lift kit, snorkel, and unique decals.
Matt Brand
Nov 21, 2024 12:26 PM
2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty: Heavy-Duty Mid-Size Ute Unveiled

2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty: Heavy-Duty Mid-Size Ute Unveiled

Ford's new Ranger Super Duty arrives in 2026 with 4,500kg towing, 4,500kg GVM and 8,000kg GCM, looking to redefine the mid-size ute segment.
Matt Brand
Nov 18, 2024 11:32 PM
2025 MG ZS HYBRID+ Launches in Australia with Upgraded Features and Efficient Powertrain

2025 MG ZS HYBRID+ Launches in Australia with Upgraded Features and Efficient Powertrain

MG launches the ZS HYBRID+ in Australia, priced from $33,990. Featuring a 158kW hybrid powertrain, fresh design, and advanced safety tech.
Matt Brand
Nov 15, 2024 2:00 PM

Sign up to our newsletter

Be the first to know when we drop new car reviews.

By clicking Sign Up you're confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.
Thank you! Welcome to the Car Sauce community!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.