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.