2020 Ford Ranger vs Isuzu D-Max Base Variant Specs Comparison

1. 2020 Ford Ranger vs Isuzu D-Max: Which is the better base variant?

For those of you who have opted to use a pickup truck as a daily driver, there’s a high chance that you might have chosen a “mid-range” variant.

It has all the capabilities of a pickup truck like its carrying capacity, power, and ground clearance, without having to compromise much in terms of safety and entertainment features.

Ford Ranger | A Vehicle for Work and Play | Ford Philippines

Despite that though, many also tend to choose base variants. For starters, these pickup truck variants are cheaper, can still carry heavy loads, and are also relatively comfortable.

As such, base variants of pickup trucks have become popular, no nonsense work trucks for many Filipinos. Even companies are getting in on the action by preferring base variants for company fleets over the mid-range and top-of-the-line ones.

New Isuzu D-MAX LS-A 'Tough Enough for Anything'

Now two of the most popular pickup trucks here in the Philippines is the Ford Ranger, and the Isuzu D-Max.

Each has a long history, and each are definitely ingrained in the minds of the Filipino car consumer. But then this begs the question, which model has the better base variant?

Let's find out which has the better base variant in terms of specs

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2. 2020 Ford Ranger XLS 4x2 MT vs Isuzu D-Max RZ4E LT 4x2 MT: Dimensions

If we go about size, then the Ford Ranger’s base variant, from the get go, is definitely larger as it measures 5,362 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,821 mm high.

Compare those to the D-Max’s base variant which is 5,295 mm long, 1,775 mm wide, and 1,695 mm in height.

The wheelbase of the Ranger is also longer at 3,220 mm, while the Isuzu D-Max has a shorter wheelbase at 3,095 mm. And lastly, the Ranger has more in the way of ground clearance as it has 232 mm, while the D-Max has 195 mm.

The D-Max LT looks simple, but it has this rustic charm to it

In terms of exterior features, both are rather simple, but the overall roofline, and shape of the models are very recognizable on the Ford Ranger and D-Max base variants.

Both pickup trucks also come with halogen reflector headlamps, and cargo tying points for the bed. However, the Ranger’s exterior does have things that the D-max does not have such as a power adjustable side mirror, and front fog lamps.

The Ranger also has larger 16-inch wheels as compared to the D-Max’s 15-inch wheels.

The Ranger's base variants, while also simpler looking has a slightly better stance due to its larger tires

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3. 2020 Ford Ranger XLS 4x2 MT vs Isuzu D-Max RZ4E LT 4x2 MT: Interior

The base Ranger and the D-Max both have comfortable, well arranged interiors. Both however are definitely simpler than their high-trim counterparts with their fabric covered seats, and manual air-conditioning systems.

Here's the slightly better looking interior of the XLS Sport

When it comes to on-board entertainment systems however, the 2020 Ford Ranger has the better head unit as it comes with an eight-inch touchscreen capable of connecting via USB, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It even has six speakers.

It doesn't have much, but it's comfortable

In comparison, the 2020 Isuzu D-Max is equipped with a far simpler single-DIN AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with one USB port and an AUX jack.

Other features available on the Ranger base variant is a vanity mirror mounted on the passenger side sunvisor, and two auxiliary 12-volt power outlets.

4. 2020 Ford Ranger XLS 4x2 MT vs Isuzu D-Max RZ4E LT 4x2 MT: Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the Ranger base variant has a 2.2-liter TDCi engine mated to a six-speed manual, while the D-Max base variant has a 1.9-liter RZ4E and a six-speed manual.

Both are inline-4 diesel engines equipped with a turbo, and both send power to the rear wheels. Note however that the Ranger’s TDCi engine has a larger displacement which accounts for its 158 horsepower and 385 Nm of torque. The D-Max’s 1.9 liter on the other hand makes less at 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque.

It's not the most powerful truck, but it's sufficient for hauling and highway runs

When it comes to other mechanical parts, both the Ranger and the D-Max both use a set of beefy leaf springs for the rear suspension, and double wishbone type suspensions for the front. Both trucks also have similar brakes with a disc for the front, and a drum brake for the rear.

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The Ranger regardless of whether it's the base variant or the top variant, can do well in towing

Do note also that the D-Max has 195 R15C steel wheels, while the Ranger comes with a set of 255/70 R16 alloys.

5. 2020 Ford Ranger XLS 4x2 MT vs Isuzu D-Max RZ4E LT 4x2 MT: Safety

When it comes to safety, the Ranger XLS definitely has more than the D-Max RZ4E LT. The latter has anti-lock braking with electronic brake distribution, and even cruise control. Both however are equipped with dual front airbags, and ABS.

Do note however that the Isuzu D-Max comes with the Isuzu Brake Override System, which works by automatically cutting off the throttle when the driver applies the throttle.

6. 2020 Ford Ranger XLS 4x2 MT vs Isuzu D-Max RZ4E LT 4x2 MT: Variants and Price

7. 2020 Ford Ranger XLS 4x2 MT vs Isuzu D-Max RZ4E LT 4x2 MT: Conclusion

To sum it all up, the Isuzu D-Max’s base variant is a no frills work horse that’s powerful enough to haul up to 1,085 kg, and comfortable enough to drive everywhere.

The Ranger on the other hand has a bit more features, can haul a maximum of 1,179 kg, and it can also make more power. 

From the rear, the D-Max base variant is a simple, utilitarian looking pickup truck

If you want a reliable, basic work truck for hauling and going out to the boonies, then the D-Max is probably more up to your speed.

If you want an affordable truck that you’ll be using in both rough work as well as a family vehicle, then the Ranger is the truck for you.

Do note though that while these two are affordable, the Ranger’s base variant is P45,000 more expensive than the D-Max.

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If you want a more handsome Ranger XLS, then get the XLS Sport

For more comparison articles, keep reading here on Philkotse.com.