Isuzu has always been a force to be reckoned with when it comes to diesel engines.  Their formidable direct-injection lean burners have always been the first choice when it comes to reliability and dependability.  Tune into the news, and chances are, you’ll see an Isuzu truck delivering relief aid to typhoon victims.  This unparalleled reputation has translated well to their passenger vehicle line as well.  The Alterra, D-MAX and Crosswind have been continuously selling strong despite the stiff competition it’s been facing of late.  Not wanting to rest simply on its diesel superiority, Isuzu has been continuously upgrading its products, all to cater to the ever finicky buying public.  Coming from the same basic gene pool, the 2008 Alterra and D-MAX represent the newest offerings from the world’s diesel leader.

Those familiar with both the Alterra and D-MAX will note that it has been a while since their debut locally.  Despite this, both manage to remain up-to-date.  First seen in the Alterra, the sharp and angular headlamps represent the main highlight of the D-MAX’s front facia.  Both vehicles have projector-type low-beam units, which are, sadly fitted with halogen lamps only.  Oddly enough, they have rather poor throw, especially during bad weather.  It’s a good thing that front fog lamps are there to supplement them.  From there, the luxurious Alterra goes the subdued route with curvier wheel arches and less pronounced fender flares.  The D-MAX is chunkier—with its squared off arches and wider fender flares.  In both cases, chrome has been liberally applied, to point you can use them as bathroom mirrors.  The bright work stretches from the grille to the door handles and even to the rear plate garnish on the Alterra.  If you’re keeping score, the D-MAX has more bright stuff found on the side mirrors, rear bumper and alloy wheels.  And this isn’t even counting the available gold paint job for Isuzu’s venerable pick-up.

In terms of interior design, both Isuzus offer simple and no-nonsense layouts.  However, their treatment is as different as their target markets.  The D-MAX is filled by a handsome black-and-silver motif that’s both attractive and much more practical to keep clean during everyday use.  The seats are finished in a grippy material called “Sports Jersey”.  On the other hand, the Alterra is decisively more upscale with its homey café colored leather seats and beige plastics.  Even the aluminum accents have been replaced by matte wood paneling (though they definitely look fake).  Both of these Isuzus feature revised instruments with electroluminescent lighting.  They do a unique “aircraft-type” sweep every time the vehicle starts up.  A small multi-function trip meter is incorporated.

Because the Alterra and the D-MAX are catering towards different markets, the story is completely different from the B-pillar onwards.  Whereas the D-MAX offers simply a livable rear seat, the second row on the Alterra feels first-class.  There’s more than enough space to actually cross your legs and still have breathing room during long distance driving.  If there are occupants on the third row, they even slide forward to split the knee room.  Unfortunately, because of the shallow floor, it’s a knees-up affair in the Alterra.  Despite being merely ‘livable’, the D-MAX’s rear bench is way better than most pick-ups thanks to a small recline plus height adjustable outboard seatbelts and a 3-point seatbelt for the middle passenger.  The Alterra makes do with a 2-point belt for the middle occupant.

It may have the same facia, but ultimately the treatment of the Alterra and D-MAX are very different.

The Alterra has luxurious cafe-colored leather, while the D-MAX is kept sporty with grippy fabric seats and metallic accents.