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In a straight line, the Hilux is brisk, enabling it to keep up with the usual compact sedans on the highway. It dispenses 140 km/h in no time and with little difficulty. However, you’ll have to work hard on the Toyota’s long stick shifter to get the most of the Hilux’s compromised gearing ratio. Meanwhile, the Isuzu has the upper hand when it comes to acceleration thanks to a closer-ratio gearbox enabling a low rpm shift point. This helps improve the D-Max’s towing/payload capabilities and fuel mileage too. Of course, ultimately the trade-off is a slower sprint to the century mark, which is not helped by its balky shift action. In terms of noise, both have the usual diesel clatter. A slight advantage goes to the Hilux with a more subdued mid-range rpm tone. However, it’s easy to carry a conversation on either vehicle whose highway munching ability is marred by large amounts of road and tire noise. Braking from high speeds was a no contest victory for the Isuzu. Although the Hilux had a slightly better pedal feel, the D-Max had the edge with larger tires and standard ABS with EBD. When both pick-ups figure in an accident, it’s better to be in the D-Max too, with dual SRS airbags versus the Hilux’s driver’s side only SRS airbag. The rear seat belts of the Isuzu are adjustable too, whereas the Hilux’s are fixed. Though the test team wasn’t able to bring either one on the rough stuff, both should be highly capable given their extensive ground clearance and high approach/departure angles. However, the D-Max’s dash-mounted 4WD selector feels more sophisticated than Toyota’s manual lever and in the process, earns more kudos. The passenger/payload turns out to be a mixed result for both, neither one coming out the clear victor. With a longer pick-up bed, the D-Max is the better hauler. However, the Hilux is the better troop carrier with its roomier and more comfortable rear bench. Both pick-ups have folding rear benches, but again, the Hilux is much better with the seat bottom folding up instead of the seat backs folding down. This prevents the soiling of the visible interior fabric. In addition, it has under seat storage bins too, perfect for storing tools and other knick-knacks. After the long drive, the burning question remains: who wins this duel? Does the Hilux have what it takes to topple the D-Max on the road? If you have been keeping score, it’s actually Hilux: 4 (styling, engine, luggage/loading and interior space), D-Max: 5 (ride, ergonomics, solidity, transmission and safety). So while everyone started dismissing the other pick-ups as “has beens” against the Hilux, it seems that the Toyota’s armor isn’t all that impenetrable. After the test, it was easy to lean towards the D-Max, and the tally simply backed up that choice. In the end, the Toyota Hilux may have won some battles, but for the everyday drive, the Isuzu D-Max wins the war. |
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