Subaru Forester 2.0 XT CVT (2016) vs Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Subaru Forester 2.0 XT CVT (2016) vs Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Subaru Forester 2.0 XT CVT (2016) Subaru ₱2,048,000 | Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021) Isuzu ₱1,825,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2016 | 2021 |
| Warranty | 100,000km/3-years | — |
| Availability | Current | — |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Flat-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1998cc | 2999cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | DOHC 16-valve |
| Aspiration | Turbo Direct Injection | Turbo Intercooler Blue Power Diesel, semi midship weight distribution |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel |
| Max Power | 240 PS @ 5600 rpm | 190 PS @ 3600 rpm |
| Max Torque | 350 Nm @ 2400 - 3600 rpm | 450 Nm @ 1600 - 2600 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT | — |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | SUV | — |
| Segment | J | — |
| Construction | Unibody | — |
| Doors | 5 | — |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 | — |
| Length (mm) | 4595 | — |
| Width (mm) | 1795 | — |
| Height (mm) | 1735 | — |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2640 | — |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1620 | — |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | MacPherson | — |
| Rear Suspension | Double Wishbone | — |
| Front Wheels | 18 | — |
| Rear Wheels | 18 | — |
| Front Tires | 225/55/R18 | — |
| Rear Tires | 225/55/R18 | — |
| Front Brakes | Disc | — |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | — |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | Yes | — |
| 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 | No | — |
| Knee Airbag | No | — |
| Passenger Airbag | No | — |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | — |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | — |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | — |
| Engine Immobilizer | No | — |
| Security Alarm | Yes | — |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | — |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Automatic Climate Control | — |
| Rear A/C Vents | Yes | — |
| Seat Material | Leather | — |
| Parking Brake | Manual | — |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | — |
| Push-Button Start | No | — |
| Cruise Control | No | — |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | — |
| Paddle Shifters | No | — |
| Reverse Camera | No | — |
| Auto Headlights | No | — |
| Power Windows | No | — |
| Power Seats | No | — |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | — |
| Eco Mode | No | — |
| Antenna | yes | — |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Touchscreen | No | — |
| Navigation | No | — |
| Bluetooth | No | — |
| Apple CarPlay | No | — |
| Android Auto | No | — |
| USB | No | — |
| AUX Input | Yes | — |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | — |
| CD Player | Yes | — |
| DVD Player | No | — |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | — |
| iPod Support | No | — |
| SD Card Slot | No | — |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | HID headlamps + Foglamps | — |
| Fog Lights | Yes | — |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | — |
Subaru Forester 2.0 XT CVT (2016) vs Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer, the choice between the Subaru Forester 2.0 XT (2016) and Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E (2021) hinges on your primary use. The D-Max is the more practical and cost-effective option: it's ₱223,000 cheaper, uses diesel for better fuel economy, and delivers 450 Nm of torque—ideal for hauling or off-road work. Its 2021 model year also means newer tech and less depreciation. The Forester, while a comfortable SUV with 240 PS and AWD, is older and pricier. Its 350 Nm torque is lower, and gas engines cost more to run in the Philippines. Choose the D-Max if you value utility, low running costs, and everyday durability. Pick the Forester only if you prioritize a car-like ride and higher horsepower for paved roads.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper?
The Isuzu D-Max is cheaper at ₱1,825,000 versus the Subaru Forester at ₱2,048,000.
Which is more powerful?
The Subaru Forester has higher power at 240 PS, while the Isuzu D-Max has 190 PS. However, the D-Max has significantly more torque (450 Nm vs 350 Nm).
Which is better for daily commuting?
The D-Max is better for daily commuting due to its diesel engine (more fuel-efficient) and newer year (2021), but the Forester offers a smoother SUV ride and more horsepower for highway driving.
Which is better for off-road and utility?
The Isuzu D-Max is superior for off-road and utility: it has 4WD, higher torque (450 Nm), and a pickup body for cargo. The Forester has AWD but less torque and a smaller SUV body.