Mitsubishi Triton vs Isuzu D-Max 2024: Best City Dual Cab?

Which Dual Cab Rules the City?

Most dual cab buyers aren't hauling tonnes off-road despite the marketing hype. You're likely navigating school runs and city streets, not rocky trails. After exhaustive testing of these updated 2024 models, we reveal which ute better suits urban life. Drawing from our hands-on evaluation and video analysis, we focus on what matters: cabin comfort, child seat practicality, and daily drivability. The value equation has shifted dramatically with Triton's price increase and D-Max's driveway deals.

Pricing and Practicality Compared

Cost of Ownership

• Triton GSR: Starts at $63,800 before on-roads ($68,000-$71,000 driveaway)
• D-Max X-Terrain: Starts at $70,500 before on-roads ($67,900 driveaway promotion)
• Payload Advantage: Triton (1030kg) beats D-Max (930kg) for moving furniture or gear

Tray and Daily Utility

• Triton: Features four tie-down points, removable sports bar, and tray liner (no hard lid on test unit)
• D-Max: Includes a damped tailgate (easier operation) and hard lid for security
• Real-World Use: Both offer ample space for flat-pack furniture, though payload differs significantly

Family Cabin Showdown

Front Seat Comfort and Tech

• Triton's Leap Forward: All-new seats address previous complaints, offering vastly improved comfort and support. The 9-inch infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is intuitive, complemented by an excellent 360-degree camera. Major frustration: The driver monitoring system triggers constant false alarms with sunglasses and is cumbersome to disable.
• D-Max's Refinement: Updates retain a quality feel. New physical volume dial is a welcome fix. Steering wheel button silences driver aids instantly. Wireless smartphone connectivity can be glitchy; USB-C connection is more reliable (no wireless charging).

Back Seat Reality Check

• Space Limitations: Both utes disappoint for tall teens or adults on long trips. Legroom is tight behind a tall driver position.
• Triton Second Row: Roof-mounted air vents direct airflow effectively. Includes USB-C/A ports and 12V outlet. Clever seatback phone/tablet holders.
• D-Max Second Row: Traditional lower air vents. Single top tether anchor point shared across seats.
• Child Seat Struggles: Installing top-tether seats is awkward in both due to central anchor points and narrow door openings. D-Max's tether straps hidden behind seats add complexity.

City Driving Verdict

Performance and Refinement

• Triton GSR (2.4L Twin-Turbo Diesel): 150kW/470Nm. Smoother ride over bumps than D-Max. Tested fuel: 8.9L/100km. Noticeably louder engine note externally. Annoying active safety nannies undermine excellent visibility and maneuverability.
• D-Max X-Terrain (3.0L Turbo Diesel): 140kW/450Nm. Marginally firmer ride. Tested fuel: 8.8L/100km. Quieter exterior presence. Proven 3.0L engine feels more effortless for potential towing.

Urban Strengths and Weaknesses

• Triton Pros: Superior rear camera, comfortable seats, squishier suspension absorbs city imperfections well.
• Triton Cons: Intrusive driver monitoring, louder engine.
• D-Max Pros: Effortless drivetrain, simple driver aid disable button, proven reliability.
• D-Max Cons: Firmer unladen ride, tighter backseat headroom, fiddly child seat setup.

Safety and Final Recommendations

Protection Features

• Triton: Includes AEB with pedestrian/cyclist detection, rear AEB, traffic sign recognition, driver monitoring, lane assist, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise.
• D-Max: Five-star ANCAP (2023). Enhanced AEB with wider detection, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise, rear cross-traffic alert. Verify exact specs for your model year.

Your Decision Toolkit

1. Test Child Seats Personally: Attempt installation with your actual seats. The central top tether is a deal-breaker for some families.
2. Negotiate on Driveaway Pricing: D-Max's current $67,900 driveaway deal negates Triton's traditional price advantage.
3. Prioritize Your Pain Points: Value Triton's comfort/camera but hate beeps? Need D-Max's quiet cabin but tow rarely?
4. Consider Resale: D-Max's strong reputation impacts long-term value.

Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain edges ahead for its quieter operation, simpler safety system management, and proven 3.0L engine. However, the Mitsubishi Triton GSR makes a compelling case with superior payload, a more comfortable front seat, and class-leading cameras. Your choice hinges on whether you value refinement (D-Max) or comfort/utility (Triton) most. For pure city use, Triton's ride quality shines, but its beeping nannies grate daily.

Which dual cab flaw would you tolerate: Triton's intrusive alerts or D-Max's firmer ride? Share your deal-breakers below. For full test data and individual reviews, visit Drive.com.au.