Isuzu beefs up D-MAX with off road focused BLADE

Sporting a suite of locally developed enhancements, the 2025 Isuzu D-MAX BLADE will be available from 1 November 2024. It features a lifted suspension tune, lightbar, underbody protection, a bold new look and 17-inch satin black alloys wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tyres.

The new variant will be offered at the special introductory price of $76,990 drive away and is the result of more than three years of prototyping behind closed doors. The D-MAX BLADE retains its 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity, 896kg payload capacity and its 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine.

The partnership with Walkinshaw helped facilitate local tuning and development, with every component and change subjected to simulations, rig tests and real world evaluation. The outcome is a beefed up D-MAX, capable of tackling off road terrain with ease.

The BLADE features a 29mm lift courtesy of new 35mm MTV twin-tube suspension, and that larger tyre and wheel package we mentioned already. The combination offers greater chassis control and improved durability.

That heads a raft of changes, both physical and cosmetic that sees the new variant have a 244mm ground clearance, 800mm wading depth, a 3mm bash plate in Isuzu red, 8.0-tonne load rated recovery points with cross bracing, and a redesigned front grille.

The latter features ISUZU lettering in satin black and is joined by new front bumper cladding, fender flares with integrated air curtains, widened mudflaps, exclusive branding and badging, a load of decals, and tubular sidesteps.

A one-piece extended sports bar with an integrated stop lamp and a tinted lens light bar in the front grille complete the significantly enhanced range-topping model. Isuzu’s intelligent driver assistance system provides a massive list of safety features.

This includes AEB with turn assist, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning and prevention, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and braking, and a digital reversing camera.

Trailer sway control and eight airbags also features. Off road capability includes a 6-speed auto with 4×4 terrain command (2-High, 4-High, and 4-Low dual-range transfer case), a rear diff lock and rough terrain mode.

A premium leather steering wheel, leather accented upholstery, an 8-way electric driver’s seat with powered lumbar support and seat heating, and a 4-way electric passenger seat (also heated) rounds out an impressive package.

The head rests and floor mats are embroidered with BLADE branding, while scuff plates also feature the logo, with each vehicle individually numbered. All the standard D-MAX enhancements are also included. You’ll find push button start, walk away door locking.

Wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto feature, as does a decent touchscreen infotainment system, DAB+ digital radio, and 8-speaker sound. Three USB-C ports and one USB-A port can also be found inside, along with dual zone air conditioning, ISOFIX and top-tether child seat anchor points.

Automatic Bi-LED headlights with auto high beam and LED daytime running lights are standard, as is tailgate assist, a tub liner and the ability to shut off BSM, RCTA and RCTB when towing. The 2025 Isuzu D-MAX BLADE is available in four colours.

The list includes Moonstone White Pearl, Basalt Black Mica, Granite Grey Mica and Sunstone Orange Mica. You can find out more from your local Isuzu Ute dealership.

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