Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021) vs Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT (2024)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021) vs Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT (2024) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021) Isuzu ₱987,000 | Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT (2024) Kia ₱1,018,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2021 | 2024 |
| Warranty | — | 5-years/160,000km |
| Availability | — | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1898cc | 1497cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | DOHC 16-valve |
| Aspiration | Turbo Intercooler Blue Power Diesel, semi midship weight distribution | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Max Power | 150 PS @ 3600 rpm | 115 PS @ 6300 rpm |
| Max Torque | 350 Nm @ 1800 - 2600 rpm | 144 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Transmission | — | IVT |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | — | Small Crossover SUV |
| Segment | — | Crossover |
| Construction | — | Unibody |
| Exterior Colors | — | Sparkling Silver or Aurora Black |
| Doors | — | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | — | 2+3 |
| Length (mm) | — | 4110 |
| Width (mm) | — | 1790 |
| Height (mm) | — | 1642 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | — | 2500 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | — | 1170 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | — | 45 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | — | MacPherson Strut w/ Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | — | Torsion Beam |
| Front Wheels | — | 16 |
| Rear Wheels | — | 16 |
| Front Tires | — | 205/55/R16 |
| Rear Tires | — | 205/55/R16 |
| Front Brakes | — | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | — | Disc |
| Steering Type | — | EPS |
| 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 | — | Yes |
| Security Alarm | — | Yes |
| Door Locking | — | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | — | Automatic Climate Control |
| Rear A/C Vents | — | No |
| Seat Material | — | Fabric |
| Parking Brake | — | Manual |
| Key Type | — | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | — | No |
| Cruise Control | — | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | — | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | — | No |
| Reverse Camera | — | No |
| Auto Headlights | — | No |
| Power Windows | — | Yes |
| Power Seats | — | No |
| Remote Trunk Release | — | Yes |
| Eco Mode | — | No |
| Antenna | — | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Speakers | — | 6 |
| Touchscreen | — | Yes |
| Navigation | — | No |
| Bluetooth | — | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | — | Yes |
| Android Auto | — | Yes |
| USB | — | Yes |
| AUX Input | — | No |
| AM/FM Radio | — | Yes |
| CD Player | — | No |
| DVD Player | — | No |
| MP3 Playback | — | No |
| iPod Support | — | No |
| SD Card Slot | — | No |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | — | LED |
| Fog Lights | — | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | — | Yes |
Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4×2 MT (2021) vs Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT (2024): which should you buy?
For Filipino buyers, the choice between the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4x2 MT and Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT hinges on intended use. The D-Max is a diesel pickup with rugged body-on-frame construction (implied by pickup type), making it ideal for heavy-duty work, towing, or off-road use. It offers superior power and torque (150 PS/350 Nm vs 115 PS/144 Nm) at a lower price (₱987,000 vs ₱1,018,000), but lacks modern convenience features like an automatic transmission and a current warranty (only 2021 model). The Sonet, a newer 2024 model, is a gasoline-powered small crossover with a continuously variable transmission (IVT) and a 5-year warranty, better suited for daily commuting, city driving, and light family use. It is more fuel-efficient in urban settings (smaller engine, lighter unibody) and easier to drive in traffic. While the D-Max offers more utility and lower upfront cost, the Sonet provides peace of mind with warranty and modern tech. Choose the D-Max if you need a workhorse; choose the Sonet for everyday driving and comfort.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, the Isuzu D-Max or the Kia Sonet?
The Isuzu D-Max 1.9 LT 4x2 MT is cheaper at ₱987,000, while the Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT costs ₱1,018,000. The difference is ₱31,000.
Which vehicle has more power?
The Isuzu D-Max has significantly more power and torque: 150 PS and 350 Nm, compared to the Kia Sonet's 115 PS and 144 Nm. The D-Max's diesel engine provides stronger low-end torque for hauling.
Is the Isuzu D-Max or Kia Sonet better for daily commuting?
The Kia Sonet is better for daily commuting due to its automatic IVT transmission, smaller size, and lighter unibody construction, which make it easier to drive in city traffic. The D-Max is a manual pickup with a truck chassis, more suited for work than daily urban driving.
Does the Kia Sonet have a warranty?
Yes, the Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT comes with a 5-year/160,000km warranty. The Isuzu D-Max's warranty is not specified in the provided data.