Isuzu D-Max vs Toyota Hilux: Which 4x4 is Best for Cyprus?
October 20, 20249 min read
The Ultimate Cyprus 4x4 Showdown
When it comes to 4x4 pickups in Cyprus, two names dominate the conversation: the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D-Max. Both offer exceptional capability, but which one is right for you? Let's break down this battle of the titans.
At a Glance
Feature
Isuzu D-Max
Toyota Hilux
Starting Price (Used)
€15,000
€18,000
Engine Options
1.9L / 3.0L Diesel
2.4L / 2.8L Diesel
Fuel Economy
6.5-8.5 L/100km
7-9 L/100km
Towing Capacity
3,500 kg
3,500 kg
Payload
Up to 1,140 kg
Up to 1,085 kg
Warranty (New)
5 years
3 years
Engine and Performance
Isuzu D-Max
1.9L Diesel (163 hp)
Perfect for light-to-medium work
Excellent fuel economy
Smooth and refined
3.0L Diesel (190 hp)
Maximum torque: 450 Nm
Superior towing performance
Handles heavy loads effortlessly
Toyota Hilux
2.4L Diesel (150 hp)
Proven reliability
Good balance of power and economy
Most popular choice
2.8L Diesel (204 hp)
Premium performance
Enhanced towing capability
Best for demanding applications
Winner: The D-Max's 3.0L engine edges ahead for raw power and towing, while the Hilux 2.8L offers refined performance. For everyday use, both base engines perform admirably.
Fuel Economy
Fuel costs matter for commercial use. Here's real-world performance:
Isuzu D-Max (1.9L):
Highway: 6.5 L/100km
Combined: 7.5 L/100km
City: 9 L/100km
Toyota Hilux (2.4L):
Highway: 7 L/100km
Combined: 8 L/100km
City: 10 L/100km
Winner: Isuzu D-Max. Expect 10-15% better fuel economy, translating to significant savings over time.
Reliability and Durability
Toyota Hilux
The Hilux's reputation is legendary. Stories of Hilux trucks surviving extreme conditions—floods, deserts, even a demolition attempt on Top Gear—have cemented its status as indestructible.
Reliability Strengths:
50+ years of continuous improvement
Simple, proven mechanicals
Extensive global service network
Parts availability worldwide
Isuzu D-Max
While less famous, the D-Max offers commercial-grade durability built for fleet operations.
Reliability Strengths:
Isuzu's diesel engine expertise (since 1936)
Heavy-duty components
Lower complexity than competitors
Strong rust protection
Winner: Draw. Both trucks offer exceptional reliability. The Hilux has the reputation, but D-Max owners report equal satisfaction.
Interior and Comfort
Modern pickups must balance work and lifestyle. How do they compare?
Isuzu D-Max Interior
Clean, functional design
Quality materials (improved in latest generation)
9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Comfortable seats with good support
Toyota Hilux Interior
More utilitarian approach
Durable materials prioritized over luxury
8-inch touchscreen standard
Proven ergonomics
Winner: Isuzu D-Max. The latest generation brings superior interior quality and more modern technology.
Off-Road Capability
Both trucks feature capable 4x4 systems:
Isuzu D-Max
Shift-on-the-fly 4WD
Rear differential lock
Hill descent control
Terrain Command system (higher trims)
235mm ground clearance
Toyota Hilux
Part-time 4WD with shift-on-fly
Active Traction Control
Downhill Assist Control
Rear diff lock available
293mm ground clearance (off-road models)
Winner: Toyota Hilux. Greater ground clearance and refined off-road electronics give it the edge for serious trail work.
Safety Features
Isuzu D-Max (Latest Generation)
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Lane Departure Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Multiple airbags
Toyota Hilux
Pre-Collision System
Lane Departure Alert
Trailer Sway Control
Seven airbags (higher trims)
Vehicle Stability Control
Winner: Draw. Both offer comprehensive safety packages in current models. Check specific trim levels for feature availability.
Cost of Ownership
Purchase Price (Used Market Cyprus)
Age
Isuzu D-Max
Toyota Hilux
1-2 years
€28,000-35,000
€32,000-42,000
3-4 years
€22,000-28,000
€25,000-32,000
5-6 years
€16,000-22,000
€20,000-26,000
Maintenance Costs
D-Max: Generally 15-20% lower service costs
Hilux: More expensive but with wider service network
Resale Value
Hilux: Exceptional residual values (holds 60-70% after 5 years)
D-Max: Good residual values (holds 55-65% after 5 years)
Winner: Depends on perspective. D-Max offers lower initial and running costs. Hilux commands premium resale values.
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Isuzu D-Max If:
Budget is a primary concern
Fuel economy matters for your operation
You want modern interior features
You prefer lower maintenance costs
You need maximum payload capacity
Choose the Toyota Hilux If:
Resale value is important
You need maximum off-road capability
Brand reputation matters for your business
You want the widest service network
Reliability peace of mind is paramount
Our Recommendation for Cyprus
For most Cyprus buyers, the Isuzu D-Max offers better value:
Lower purchase price
Superior fuel economy
More modern features
Excellent reliability
However, if you prioritize resale value and brand prestige, the Toyota Hilux remains the benchmark.
See Them Both at Auto Melon Group
We stock both the Isuzu D-Max and Toyota Hilux. Our team can help you compare specific models and find the right truck for your needs.
