Isuzu D-Max VS Volkswagen Caddy
Isuzu D-Max
Likes
- Enhanced suspension improves dynamics
- Good-looking design inside and out
- A respectable on-road/off-road compromise
Dislikes
- No performance improvements
- Lacks some rivals' electronic 4x4 tech
- Interior needs more differentiation from LS-U
Volkswagen Caddy
Likes
- Nice to drive – for a van
- Comfortable
- Handy camping additions
Dislikes
- AWD would be nice
- Issues with bed set-up
- Not enough handy camping additions
Summary
Isuzu D-Max
These days, all the cool kids are buying utes that look like they’ve been working out.
They stand out with their toned bodies, muscular stance, rugged boots and ready-for-action names, like Warrior, Rogue, Thunder and – of course – Raptor.
Such suffixes are far sexier than just Navara, HiLux, BT-50 and Ranger, respectively.
Read more about
- New hybrid ute revealed but will it come to Australia? 2025 Isuzu D-Max gets mild-hybrid in Thailand but no confirmation for Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger rival's local release
- Special Walkinshaw tuned Isuzu D-Max edges closer: 2025 Isuzu D-Max Blade ute to take fight to Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior and Toyota HiLux GR Sport
- Special new Isuzu 4WD revealed: Popular 2025 Isuzu MU-X off-road SUV gears up with a touring and towing-focused package to battle the Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Now, Australia’s third best-selling ute, the Isuzu D-Max, joins the club with the Blade.
Is it fit enough to run with the other pumped-up utes?
Let’s find out.
| Safety rating | — |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | — |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Fuel Efficiency | —L/100km |
| Seating | 5 seats |
Volkswagen Caddy
The universal appeal of road-tripping with a vehicle that offers an all-in-one solution to car camping has been growing enormously in recent years.
“What’s car camping?”, I hear you ask. Well, I’m talking about staying overnight or longer in a vehicle that affords you the ability to sleep in, eat in, and perhaps even cook in it.
As such, self-styled camper vans have gained an even bigger foothold in the market in recent years than they had in the years prior to the global pandemic, even though some of these vehicles, like this new VW Caddy California Maxi, don’t offer cooking facilities. That doesn’t seem to faze many (any?) current or potential owners of camper vans, or mini camper vans, or even those who like the idea of car camping, much more than actually ever doing it.
This five-seater van certainly looks the part and fits in with the #vanlife philosophy, but is it worth your consideration in such a variety-packed camper van market? Read on.
| Safety rating | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | — |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Fuel Efficiency | 4.9L/100km |
| Seating | — |
Verdict
Isuzu D-Max8.1/10
As with so many Australian-enhanced utes that rely on local expertise steeped in our once-flourishing automotive industry, the Blade improves the D-Max breed.
In fact, there is no doubt that it is the best D-Max ever sold in Australia – Holden-badged Rodeos and Colorados included.
Is the Blade class-best? Maybe not. But it does not seem to be far behind on first acquaintance. It also looks great and offers decent value for money.
What Walkinshaw has done to the D-Max's on-road dynamics as well as off-road capability quantifiably elevates the Isuzu ute. We’re impressed.
Volkswagen Caddy7/10
The appeal of a ready-made camper van is undeniable and the VW Caddy California comfortably occupies a niche within a niche.
This van is nice to drive but it also manages to be a functional and comfortable camper, albeit a very basic one.
There’s no getting around the fact that, while it does have a bed and a camp table and two chairs, it’s lacking cooking facilities and a fridge … and the list goes on.
This is perfectly fine if you intend to take the rest of your gear (portable stove, fridge etc) as carry-ons for infrequent nights away, but if your vehicle is going to be your camp for regular multi-day trips away then a lot of other approaches make more sense. You could, for instance, buy a 4WD or AWD wagon and a camper trailer. You might spend a little – or a lot – more than what you’d spend on this van alone, but your opportunities for adventure would be a whole lot more expansive.
In the end, it depends on what you want to do with it. This van is more than fit for purpose and it may well provide a more-than-great introduction to the adventure lifestyle for some.
Design
Isuzu D-Max
Dating back to 2019, the current, D-Max range underwent a fairly robust facelift for the 2024 model year, with a restyled bonnet, grille, bumpers and tail-lights amongst other alterations.
Walkinshaw was privy to the changes during the Blade’s development many months out from its global debut, designing a larger and more protruding front grille featuring a hexapod motif and bigger badge.
It also adds black cladding on the bumper and side steps, and a curved 112-Watt light bar for dramatically improved nighttime illumination.
Those wider wheels and tracks, as well as that raised ground clearance, have also necessitated new, 23mm-wider wheel-arch flares, complete with additional cooling. The ones over the rear wheels are lower, too, to provide a more balanced aesthetic given the relatively modest wheel size.
The Blade’s rear sports bar is also a Walkinshaw design.
Satin black replaces chrome where appropriate, including on the door handles, mirrors and badges, while Isuzu brands the Blade with Japanese ‘Katana’ motifs across the doors and tailgate.
Finally, stepping inside the cabin, you’ll find ‘Blade’ embroidered on the headrests and floor mats, and etched into the door sills, while a numbered plaque is fitted in the console.
Otherwise, it’s all LS-U in there. Which is no bad thing.
Volkswagen Caddy
VW’s Caddy California looks good on the outside.
Its interior layout and the materials used – durable plastics on the dash etc. fabric seat covers, and sturdy carpet on the floor – are well suited to an outdoorsy lifestyle that will inevitably bring dirt, sand and mud into the interior at regular stages of the vehicle’s life.
The sliding doors either side – and the large opening when the rear tailgate is lifted – make the Caddy California a more versatile camper proposition than vehicles without those ingress points because the interior can be more readily accessed.
The folding bed, which sits behind the second-row bench seat, ready to be unfolded and used, is a handy addition and, as it’s supported on the vehicle body, that supposedly helps to make it easier to set up and pack down than it otherwise might be.
However, I had some difficulty in unfolding it all the way out flat, even with the front seats moved all the way forward. Perhaps with some more time and, dare I say it, patience, I could have managed better.
Also the fold-out struts, on the base of the bed and that are meant to slot into B-pillar recesses, seem a bit too flimsy for my liking, especially if the bed can be reasonably expected to cope with the weight of two adults. The mattress is not a particularly spongy one either – but, hey, camping should involve at least some degree of discomfort. Otherwise, why would some people describe it as “roughing it”? I jest – anyway, you could easily replace the standard mattress with something more substantial if you get the urge.
There are folding chairs and a table provided, although I’d be looking to the Aussie camping gear market for more sturdier examples of this kind of outdoors furniture, especially if you plan to put your equipment through regular and prolonged use.
Practicality
Isuzu D-Max
Just in case you missed it, more features including additional USB ports, fresh trim materials and new displays headlined the MY24 D-Max facelift inside.
The most obvious mods centred around redesigned instrumentation and a new 9.0-inch touchscreen. Both gained significantly upgraded functionality, clarity (especially the now-digital reverse camera) and improved graphics, making them better and easier to understand and use.
While not quite as large or roomy inside as, say, a Ranger, the D-Max has stood the test of time well inside, with sufficient space, a good driving position and inviting front seats that provide good support over long distances.
Meanwhile, in the rear of the D-Max’s cabin, the three-person bench is adequately comfortable, while most expected items like USB ports, air-con vents and some under-cushion storage are provided. It’s all pretty civilised inside.
Out back, though, beyond a tub-liner, you will need to pay extra for a tonneau cover, while there are no extra side steps into the bed as per a Ranger, nor power points or surround lighting.
But then, again, this is meant to be a no-nonsense workhorse with extra 4x4 abilities.
It's also worth keeping in mind that the Blade has slightly lower payload capacity, down to 896kg from 985kg. However, it does maintain a 3500kg-braked/750kg-unbraked towing capacity.
Volkswagen Caddy
The Caddy California is a five-seater: two seats in the front and a three-seater bench seat as the second row.
Upfront, the driver and passenger seats are manually-adjustable for height, with four-way adjustable lumbar support, and tilt-and-depth adjustment on the seat cushion. They are cloth trim but feel adequately supportive and comfortable and have a height-adjustable centre armrest, stowage compartments and two drink holders.
There are storage spaces aplenty – including a dash with multiple stowage compartments, and an illuminated glove box – as well as two USB-C ports.
The digital cockpit is easy enough to use, as is the touchscreen multi-media unit and we had no strife setting up our smartphone for Apple CarPlay, and although the screen is on the wrong side of small, it’s clear and crisp enough to get a decent idea of what’s going on.
The second-row bench seat is a 2/3-1/3 split, and the second row can be folded, double-folded and removed separately. The two outboard passengers also get access to a folding table in each of the front seat-backs.
This second row of seats has ISOFIX child seat anchors in the two outboard seats and there are top tether points on all of these second-row seats.
The rear luggage compartment has a cover and there are storage bags fitted to the interior walls in the cargo area and also a 12-V outlet back there, as well as LED lights in tailgate.
Price and features
Isuzu D-Max
Sitting at the very top of the D-Max range, the Blade starts at $76,990 drive-away. Now, that’s some $9000 more than the previous flagship, the continuing X-Terrain.
Keep in mind, though, that the Blade is actually based on the mid-range D-Max LS-U, that starts from almost $15,000 less.
And, as with the Warrior, Thunder, Rogue and Ford Ranger Tremor that Isuzu is chasing, you don’t get any more performance.
To refresh, the LS-U includes auto bi-LED headlights, keyless entry/start with auto walkaway locking, dual-zone climate control, leather/leatherette upholstery, heated and powered front seats, a 7.0-inch driver display, a 9.0-inch central touchscreen, a reverse camera, DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a tub liner, tailgate assistance and a full-sized spare alloy wheel.
So, what does that extra $15K buy you?
Walkinshaw – formerly of HSV fame but more-recently responsible for the remanufactured (in Melbourne) Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado and Toyota Tundra full-sized utes – has brought some significant upgrades to the Blade, in an Australian-exclusive program that’s spanned three years, more than a dozen prototypes and over 100,000km of local testing.
Much of that was in the outback as well as the ex-Holden proving ground at Lang Lang.
Over the regular D-Max, changes include uprated suspension, better clearances, improved underbody protection and bolder visuals.
Kicking things off is a 22.5/25mm front/rear lift (though the coil spring rates remain) due to 16mm-larger Monroe 35mm MTV twin-tube dampers with lifted spring seats. Ground clearance is now 244mm (front) and 215mm (rear axle low point); approach, departure and breakover angles are 29.2 degrees, 19.2° and 25.2° respectively. Wading depth remains at 800mm.
The Blade debuts Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT 275/65R17 all-terrain tyres, new 17x8.5-inch flow-formed alloy wheels. As they incorporate a +17-degree offset, tracks are 32mm wider (to 1602mm).
Under the D-Max’s nose is a steel underbody protection bash plate that is double the thickness of the original at 3mm, while the revised load-rated recovery point system includes an integrated cross-member, which braces both chassis rails together for improved torsional rigidity and reduced deflection when under the maximum eight-tonne load from an angle of up to 35 degrees.
Kerb weight jumps to 2204kg, which is a 99kg increase over the LS-U.
With many being ex-Holden, Ford, Toyota and IVECO during their local full-vehicle manufacturing era, Walkinshaw’s 60-strong team of engineers, designers and automotive specialists in Clayton have modified a ute in a similar way, then, that Premcar has turned the Navara into the Warrior.
But does the Blade meet Isuzu Ute Australia’s (IUA) brief for improved or upgraded off-road ability, ground clearances, underbody protection, approach angles, lighting and aesthetics?
Keep reading.
Volkswagen Caddy
Before we get cracking, it’s important to note that we tested the 2.0-litre TDI320 variant (diesel); there is a 1.5-litre TSI220 petrol variant available.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Caddy California Max is built off Caddy Maxi people-mover variant on an extended long-wheelbase platform.
Our test vehicle has a manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of $54,990, not including on-road costs. As tested our Caddy California was $56,105 because it has Copper Bronze metallic paint, which costs $1115.
As standard, it has five seats (two in the front and a three-seat bench as the second row), a newly designed dash and instrument cluster featuring a full-colour digital cockpit, an 8.25-inch colour touchscreen (with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), two-zone climate control, keyless start, a lifting tailgate, and a stack of other features too numerous to list here. Find out for yourself, do your own research for there’s joy in that.
Driver-assist tech includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, lane assist, and park assist and park distance control in the front and rear.
The California package includes a foldable bed, storage bags, a foldable table and two chairs, as well as additional interior lighting and ventilation vents.
There are numerous VW genuine options available, including a panoramic glass sunroof as well as a tent that can be attached to the rear of the vehicle, but it was unavailable at time of writing.
Under the bonnet
Isuzu D-Max
Now, if you want more performance in your D-Max, the bad news is the Blade is no more powerful or torquier than the regular version with the same engine.
That, by the way, means it maintains the 3.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injection turbo-diesel engine, delivering 140kW of power at 3600rpm and 450Nm of torque between 1600-2600rpm.
Actually, given that the 2204kg (kerb) Blade seems to be about 100kg heavier than the LS-U equivalent, its power-to-weight ratio slips to 63.5kW/tonne (versus 66.5 in the donor ute).
But, while there aren’t any fancy new electronic AWD systems as per some rivals such as the Ranger, the newcomer continues with the same, trusty old six-speed automatic and part-time 4WD set-up.
Of course, the D-Max is also conventional in its body-on-frame construction, complete with (three-layer) leaf spring rear suspension set-up.
That said, the Blade behaves quite a bit differently both on and off road.
Volkswagen Caddy
Our test vehicle – the TDI320 variant of the new Caddy California – has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, producing 90kW at 2750-4250rpm and 320Nm at 1500-2500rpm, and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox DSG.
This is a front-wheel drive van and it’s riding on 18-inch wheels and Bridgestone Turanza T005 (215/55 R17) tyres.
Efficiency
Isuzu D-Max
Despite weight and body airflow differences, the Blade still uses the same amount of fuel as the regular D-Max, according to Isuzu.
This means 8.0L/100km in the combined average cycle, or 9.8 in the city and 6.8 on the highway runs. This translates to 207, 254 and 180g/km of carbon dioxide emissions respectively.
Or, seen another way, expect a theoretical range of about 950km from each 76-litre tankful of diesel.
What did our fuel trip meter read during the launch event? Around 11L/100km.
Volkswagen Caddy
Volkswagen lists the official combination fuel consumption as 4.9L/100km, but during our four day test we only averaged 6.2L/100km.
This van has a 50-litre fuel tank and an AdBlue tank.
Driving
Isuzu D-Max
Ever since the current-gen D-Max surfaced back for the 2021 model year, it's been widely regarded as a massive improvement over the previous version, especially in refinement, safety and dynamic behaviour.
You’d never call the 3.0-litre four-pot turbo-diesel quiet or sophisticated, but it is comparatively smooth and very gutsy. Strong off the line, it pulls hard and tows with effortless ease thanks to all that torque. The auto is also a good match, and rarely puts a foot wrong. As the Blade carries on with exactly the same powertrain, nothing changes here.
But, despite leading the class with its standardisation of advanced driver-assist safety tech, the regular D-Max is only a middling effort in terms of on steering, handling and ride qualities.
While light to use and easy to place, the steering has long felt remote compared to the class best, lacking feedback and precision; the suspension helps keep the ute grounded and in control, but the ride is too bumpy and jittery, which can become tiresome.
Plus, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep safety systems have lacked precision and nuance in their operation, with the latter pin-balling from one side of the lane to another.
Now, the 2024 facelift aimed to address some of these criticisms with a raft of electronic driver-assist and traction-control upgrades, as well as continuous Australian-road tuning, to improve the D-Max’s dynamics.
How much of these contribute to the Blade’s enhanced driveability is not certain, but the net effect is considerable and palpable. Clearly, Walkinshaw’s touch has been transformative.
The new dampers make the driver feel more connected to the road, with better steering feel and response; the suspension rides over bumps with more suppleness for improved comfort, and it feels a little bit more controlled to boot. All this translates to a more enjoyable driving experience.
The Blade brings the D-Max closer to the class-best Ranger, if not quite close enough to be considered amongst the leaders. Still, it's a much better compromise than before.
But, what’s the newest Isuzu like off-road? After all, this is what the mods have been designed for.
Tested out at a 4x4 track in Adelaide, the Blade builds on the D-Max’s already impressive off-road ability, with that little bit of extra lift and ground clearances allowing for the ute to go that much further over challenging terrain.
Though it lacks some of the fancier features you find in some more-expensive machinery like under-vehicle camera views and automatic electronic 4WD mode selection, the basics are all there for serious 4WDing.
Where the Blade stands out compared to regular D-Maxes is in its more comfortable and controlled ride, since the suspension seems to do a better job in dealing with the rough stuff while isolating its occupants from it.
This is quite remarkable considering that proper off-road tyres are not fitted, just Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain rubber. They feel like an effective compromise for on- as well as off- road use.
All-up, then, the Blade is a better D-Max from behind the wheel.
Volkswagen Caddy
The Caddy California is 4835mm long with a 2970mm-long wheel-base. It stands 1836mm high (including roof rails) and is 2100mm wide (including the wing mirrors). The TDI320 variant has an unladen mass of 1723kg.
This is not the biggest van around and it manages to feel quite manoeuvrable for something that’s fairly box-like.
Visibility is pretty good from the driver’s seat, with mostly clear vision in all directions.
Steering is suitably sharp and well weighted, which is handy for a camper, especially for one that tends to feel its size a bit through sections of the blacktop that involve lots of twists and turns.
The 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine offers reasonable punch – getting the front-wheel drive van off the mark with some pep – and it works well with the dual-clutch auto transmission, resulting in a mostly smooth and unfussed drive.
Ride is well sorted, albeit on the firm side of things and some of that characteristic can be attributed to the van’s dimensions, the fact it was unladen, and it’s shod with 18-inch wheels.
Something people who aren’t used to driving vans should keep in mind: a van’s sides and back-end tend to catch wind gusts in high-wind areas, and that sensation and impact on the van’s behaviour can be somewhat disconcerting if you’re not anticipating them.
This van’s Bridgestone Turanza T005 (215/55 R17) tyres cope adequately with rain-slick bitumen during the recent poor weather.
All-round, this van is well behaved on-road and yields a relaxed driving experience.
Safety
Isuzu D-Max
The Blade hasn’t been tested for an ANCAP crash-test rating, but the rest of the D-Max range scores five stars.
Remember that the Isuzu was first ute in Australia with a wide suite of advanced driver-assist tech as standard.
For 2025, it now includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian, cyclist and backover detection, as well as turn-assist and forward collision warning. This operates between 8-160km/h.
You’ll also find lane-support tech as part of the advanced driver-assist systems, that works between 60-130km/h. Included here are 'intelligent' adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert/keep, emergency lane keeping, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert and brake.
Like all D-Maxes, the Blade also comes with traffic sign recognition, trailer sway control and eight airbags, as well as ISOFIX latches and child-seat tether points in the back seat.
Volkswagen Caddy
The VW Caddy California has the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating from testing in 2021.
It has front, side, curtain and centre airbags for driver and front passenger, ISOFIX child seat anchors on the outboard second-row seats and top tether points on all second-row seats.
Driver-assist tech includes adaptive cruise control, driver fatigue detection, multi collision braking system, lane change system (including blindspot monitoring), side assist with rear traffic alert and more.
Ownership
Isuzu D-Max
Like all D-Maxes, the Blade offers five years of capped-price servicing, a six-year warranty with a 150,000km distance limit, and seven years of roadside assistance chucked in. IUA likes to call this its 5/6/7 plan.
Finally, service intervals are every year or at 15,000km intervals, with a capped-price servicing offer of $449 per visit.
Volkswagen Caddy
The VW Caddy California Maxi is covered by a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, a choice of three- or five-year Care Plans (capped price servicing), and a free year of 24-hour roadside assist.
A Caddy’s five-year capped price servicing plan costs $1500 and includes two free services.