Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021) vs Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GL 8AT 2WD (2024)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021) vs Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GL 8AT 2WD (2024) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021) Isuzu ₱1,825,000 | Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GL 8AT 2WD (2024) Hyundai ₱1,998,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2021 | 2024 |
| Warranty | — | 5 years or 200,000 kms |
| Availability | — | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 2999cc | 2497cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | 16-valve |
| Aspiration | Turbo Intercooler Blue Power Diesel, semi midship weight distribution | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Max Power | 190 PS @ 3600 rpm | 194 PS |
| Max Torque | 450 Nm @ 1600 - 2600 rpm | 246 Nm |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | FWD |
| Transmission | — | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | — | Midsize Crossover SUV |
| Segment | — | SUV |
| Construction | — | Unibody |
| Exterior Colors | — | Creamy White, Magnetic Silver, Abyss Black, Earthy Brass Matte |
| Doors | — | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | — | 7 |
| Length (mm) | — | 4830 |
| Width (mm) | — | 1900 |
| Height (mm) | — | 1770 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | — | 2815 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | — | 1870 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | — | 67 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | — | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | — | Multi-Link |
| Front Wheels | — | 20 Alloys |
| Rear Wheels | — | 20 Alloys |
| Front Tires | — | 255/45R20 |
| Rear Tires | — | 255/45R20 |
| Front Brakes | — | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | — | Disc |
| Steering Type | — | EPS |
| Steering Column | — | Tilt & Telescopic |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | — | Yes |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | — | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | — | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | — | Yes |
| Stability Control | — | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | — | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | — | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | — | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | — | Yes |
| Front Curtain Airbags | — | Yes |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | — | Yes |
| Rear Side Airbags | — | Yes |
| Engine Immobilizer | — | Yes |
| Security Alarm | — | Yes |
| Door Locking | — | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | — | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone |
| Rear A/C Vents | — | Yes |
| Seat Material | — | Leather |
| Parking Brake | — | EPB |
| Key Type | — | Keyless |
| Push-Button Start | — | Yes |
| Cruise Control | — | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | — | Yes |
| Power Windows | — | Yes |
| Power Seats | — | Yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Speakers | — | 6 |
| Touchscreen | — | Yes |
| Bluetooth | — | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | — | Yes |
| USB | — | Yes |
| AM/FM Radio | — | Yes |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | — | LED |
| Daytime Running Lights | — | Yes |
Isuzu D-Max 3.0 LS-E 4×4 AT (2021) vs Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GL 8AT 2WD (2024): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer who prioritises rugged capability and towing power, the 2021 Isuzu D‑Max 3.0 LS‑E 4×4 AT is the clear choice. It costs ₱1,825,000, about ₱173,000 less than the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe, and its 4WD drivetrain, turbo‑charged 3.0‑liter diesel engine delivers 190 PS and a massive 450 Nm of torque, far surpassing the Santa Fe’s 194 PS and 246 Nm. This torque advantage translates to better off‑road confidence and payload capacity, making the D‑Max ideal for work‑related hauling, rural trips, or families that need a true pickup. On the other hand, the Santa Fe, priced at ₱1,998,000, offers a modern unibody midsize crossover with a 7‑seat layout, 8‑speed automatic, and a 5‑year/200,000‑km warranty, appealing to buyers who value comfort, family‑friendly space, and a refined on‑road driving experience. Its front‑wheel‑drive layout and naturally aspirated gasoline engine are smoother for city commuting but lack the low‑end grunt of the D‑Max. Choose the Isuzu if you need a hard‑working, torque‑rich 4×4 at a lower price; opt for the Hyundai if you prefer a newer, more spacious SUV with a long warranty for everyday family use.
Frequently asked questions
Which vehicle is cheaper?
The Isuzu D‑Max 3.0 LS‑E 4×4 AT costs ₱1,825,000, which is ₱173,000 less than the Hyundai Santa Fe’s price of ₱1,998,000.
Which model has more power and torque?
The D‑Max produces 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, while the Santa Fe delivers 194 PS but only 246 Nm of torque, giving the D‑Max a clear advantage in low‑end pulling power.
Is there a warranty difference?
The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a 5‑year or 200,000‑km warranty; no warranty information is provided for the Isuzu D‑Max.
Which vehicle is better suited for family use?
The Santa Fe offers a 7‑seat configuration, unibody construction and a smoother gasoline engine, making it more suitable for daily family commuting, whereas the D‑Max is a pickup focused on utility and off‑road capability.