Hyundai Grand Starex Super Express (2016) vs Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS 4×2 MT (2021)

Hyundai Grand Starex Super Express (2016) vs Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS 4×2 MT (2021): which should you buy?

For a Filipino buyer whose primary need is transporting many passengers or bulky cargo, the 2016 Hyundai Grand Starex Super Express offers a ten‑seat van layout and a body‑on‑frame construction that can handle heavy loads, but it comes at a higher price (₱1,418,000) and modest performance – 100 PS and 226 Nm of torque from a 2.5‑L turbo‑charged diesel, paired with a 5‑speed manual. The 2021 Isuzu D‑Max 3.0 LS 4×2 MT is cheaper (₱1,320,000) and delivers far more power and torque – 190 PS and 450 Nm from a 3.0‑L DOHC turbo‑intercooled diesel – making it better suited for hauling heavy payloads, steep climbs, or frequent highway use. However, the D‑Max is a pickup, so it lacks the built‑in passenger capacity of the Grand Starex; seating numbers aren’t specified, so it’s likely limited to the cab and a small rear bench. If you need a full‑size people‑carrier for family trips, shuttle services, or a mobile business, the Grand Starex’s 10‑seat configuration outweighs its lower power and higher price. If you prioritize lower cost, stronger engine performance, and a versatile cargo bed for goods rather than passengers, the Isuzu D‑Max is the more practical choice.