Most expensive ever! 2025 Isuzu D-Max Blade pricing revealed, but Ford Ranger Tremor, Nissan Navara Warrior and Toyota HiLux Rogue should be worried

The most expensive, yet most capable, Isuzu D-Max ute ever sold in Australia has landed, targeting the likes of the Ford Ranger Tremor, Nissan Navara Warrior and Toyota HiLux Rogue.

Developed, modified and tuned in Melbourne by the Walkinshaw Automotive Groupe for Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA), the D-Max Blade 4x4 goes on sale in Australia on November 1, priced from $76,990, drive-away.

For this year, 400 examples of the upgraded dual-cab ute are available, with an estimated 160 per month following from January, depending on demand.

Modifications are centred around the suspension, chassis frame, underbody protection, grille and wheel/tyre package, for broader off-road capabilities as well as improved on-road refinement. A corresponding decal visual package is also included.

However, in the interest of maintaining a competitive price point, there are no other mechanical changes or any additional boosts in performance, unlike similarly off-road-focused alternatives like the HiLux GR Sport, from about $80,000 drive-away, and – especially – the Ranger Raptor, from $97,000, with all costs included.

This means the same 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, six-speed torque-converter automatic and part-time 4WD system found in the current-generation D-Maxes (and its Mazda BT-50 fraternal twin) since 2021.

And while the maximum braked towing capacity remains at 3500kg, payload slips from 970kg to 896kg. Suspension continues with a leaf sprung arrangement out back.

Interestingly, IUA based the Blade on the mid-grade D-Max LS-U Crew Cab that currently lists from $62,500, before on-road costs, rather than the sporty X-Terrain that competes against the Ranger Wildtrak.

It is the result of a three-year program that has included a 100,000km development process involving more than a dozen prototypes, with extensive outback testing, including up in The Kimberley in the Northern Territory.

So, how did Walkinshaw, of HSV and remanufactured Toyota Tundra fame, change the D-Max?

IUA's brief called for improved or upgraded off-road ability, ground clearances, underbody protection, approach angles, lighting and aesthetics.

As a result, the D-Max LS-U has undergone a 29mm lift, though the original coil spring rates remain. This is partly due to the fitment of 16mm-larger shock absorbers (Monroe 35mm MTV twin-tube – rather than monotube – dampers with lifted spring seats). These are said to provide greater chassis control, improved temperature management and a larger piston and more heavy-duty seals for durability. Thirty different units were evaluated before these were chosen.

For the record, ground clearance is now 244mm while approach, departure and breakover angles are 29.2, 19.2 and 25.2 degrees, respectively. Wading depth remains at 800mm.

The Blade also debuts a fresh set of tyres – the Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain, of 275/65R17 size, ensconcing redesigned 17x8.5-inch flow-formed alloy wheels, complete with a matching spare. Said to be more durable and less prone to punctures, the tyres carry a 3PMSF cold-climate rating.

Note that the wheels now incorporate a +17-degree offset, which widens the tracks by 32mm, to aid handling and stability.

Meanwhile, the steel underbody protection features double thickness compared to the standard D-Max, thanks to a now 3.0mm steel bash plate with ISUZU emblazoned across it.

Behind that is a revised load-rated recovery point system, now with an integrated cross-member, which braces both chassis rails together for improved torsional rigidity and eliminate deflection under the maximum eight-tonne load from an angle of up to 35 degrees.

According to IUA. "The dual hook, single-piece recovery point frame is the only system on the Australian market that incorporates cross-bracing reinforcement to the same degree." Walkinshaw subjected the bash plate to rigorous environmental testing, as well.

Walkinshaw also carried out the exterior styling additions locally, with the now slightly more protruding front grille scoring a larger badge and surrounded by a hexapod motif. This required airflow testing and validation to comply with cooling requirements, particularly under hot weather load and during towing.

The bumper now has satin black cladding, which also covers the side steps, while the mudflaps are wider.

Look closely and you’ll also spot a curved 112-watt light bar said to provide exceptional illumination properties, especially when off-roading.

Wider wheels and tracks, as well as that raised ground clearance, have also necessitated new wheel arch flares, boasting integrated air curtains to aid cooling. A bespoke Walkinshaw design sports bar is also fitted behind the cabin.

Satin black replaces chrome, including on the door handles, mirrors and badges. Isuzu brands the Blade with Japanese ‘Katana’ motifs across the doors and tailgate.

Inside, this grade gains ‘Blade’ embroidered badging on the headrests, floor mats and door sills, while a numbered plaque is fitted to the console area. Otherwise, it’s all D-Max LS-U in the cabin.

Note, too, that the MY25 Blade benefits from all the upgrades ushered in with the MY24 D-Max facelift, including updated advanced driver-assist safety and an improved 'Tyre Pressure Monitoring System'.

Standard features include dual-zone climate control, auto bi-LED headlights, leather and synthetic leather-accented upholstery, powered and heated front seats, keyless entry/start, walkaway locking, a reverse camera, a 9.0-inch central touchscreen, digital radio, wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a 7.0-inch driver display, a tub liner, tailgate assist and a full-sized spare wheel.

Colours are 'Moonstone White pearl', 'Basalt Black mica', 'Granite Grey mica' and 'Sunstone Orange mica'.

Finally, the Blade comes with the full IUA warranty and servicing support as per other D-Max and related MU-X SUV models, meaning a six-year/150,000km warranty, five-year’s worth of capped-price servicing at $449 a pop, and seven-year roadside assistance support.