Kia Forte 4-Door EX 1.6 AT (2015) vs Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Kia Forte 4-Door EX 1.6 AT (2015) vs Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Kia Forte 4-Door EX 1.6 AT (2015) Kia ₱965,000 | Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021) Isuzu ₱987,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2015 | 2021 |
| Warranty | 160,000km/5-years | — |
| Availability | Discontinued | — |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1591cc | 1898cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | DOHC 16-valve |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated, D-CVVT | Turbo Intercooler Blue Power Diesel, semi midship weight distribution |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel |
| Max Power | 130 PS @ 6300 rpm | 150 PS @ 3600 rpm |
| Max Torque | 157 Nm @ 4850 rpm | 350 Nm @ 1800 - 2600 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed A/T | — |
| Drivetrain | FWD | RWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Sedan | — |
| Segment | C | — |
| Construction | Unibody | — |
| Doors | 4 | — |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 | — |
| Length (mm) | 4560 | — |
| Width (mm) | 1780 | — |
| Height (mm) | 1445 | — |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2700 | — |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1192 | — |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | MacPherson w/ Coil Spring | — |
| Rear Suspension | CoupledTorsion Beam | — |
| Front Wheels | 16" Alloys | — |
| Rear Wheels | 16" Alloys | — |
| Front Tires | 205/55 R16 | — |
| Rear Tires | 205/55 R16 | — |
| Front Brakes | Disc | — |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | — |
| Steering Type | Hydraulic | — |
| Steering Column | Tilt | — |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | No | — |
| Differential Lock | No | — |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | — |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | — |
| Brake Assist | No | — |
| Parking Sensors | No | — |
| Stability Control | No | — |
| Traction Control | No | — |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | — |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | — |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | — |
| Hill Start Assist | No | — |
| Hill Descent Control | No | — |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | — |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | — |
| Knee Airbag | No | — |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | — |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | — |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | — |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | — |
| Engine Immobilizer | No | — |
| Security Alarm | Yes | — |
| Door Locking | keyless | — |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control | — |
| Rear A/C Vents | No | — |
| Seat Material | Fabric | — |
| Parking Brake | Manual | — |
| Key Type | Comfort Access Key | — |
| Push-Button Start | Yes | — |
| Cruise Control | Yes | — |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | — |
| Paddle Shifters | No | — |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | — |
| Auto Headlights | Yes | — |
| Power Windows | Yes | — |
| Power Seats | No | — |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | — |
| Eco Mode | No | — |
| Antenna | yes | — |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Touchscreen | No | — |
| Navigation | No | — |
| Bluetooth | Yes | — |
| Apple CarPlay | No | — |
| Android Auto | No | — |
| USB | Yes | — |
| AUX Input | Yes | — |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | — |
| CD Player | Yes | — |
| DVD Player | No | — |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | — |
| iPod Support | Yes | — |
| SD Card Slot | No | — |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | Halogen | — |
| Fog Lights | Yes | — |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | — |
Kia Forte 4-Door EX 1.6 AT (2015) vs Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer, the choice between the Kia Forte 1.6 EX AT and the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4x2 MT depends on your primary need. The Forte is a compact sedan ideal for daily city commuting and family use, offering a comfortable ride, car-like handling, and a lower price at ₱965,000. However, it is discontinued and has a naturally aspirated gasoline engine (130 PS, 157 Nm) paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The D-Max is a pickup truck priced slightly higher at ₱987,000, with a turbo diesel engine producing 150 PS and a massive 350 Nm of torque, making it far superior for hauling heavy loads, off-road use, and long-distance driving. It also has a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, which may appeal to enthusiasts or those needing rugged utility. The D-Max is newer (2021 vs 2015) and still available, while the Forte is discontinued. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and lower upfront cost for city driving, choose the Forte. If you need a workhorse for cargo, towing, or rough roads, the D-Max is the better investment despite the higher price and manual gearbox.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the Kia Forte or the Isuzu D-Max?
The Kia Forte 1.6 EX AT is cheaper at ₱965,000 compared to the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4x2 MT at ₱987,000.
Which vehicle has more power and torque?
The Isuzu D-Max has higher power (150 PS vs 130 PS) and significantly more torque (350 Nm vs 157 Nm), making it better for heavy loads and towing.
Which is better for daily commuting in the city?
The Kia Forte is better for daily commuting due to its sedan body, automatic transmission, and smaller size, offering easier maneuverability and parking in urban areas.
Which vehicle is still available for purchase new?
The Isuzu D-Max (2021 model) is still available, while the Kia Forte (2015 model) is discontinued.