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Isuzu D-Max vs Kia Tasman

Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.

The short answer

The Isuzu D-Max wins on money kept: 75% retained after three years vs 69%, worth about R 142 280 at trade-in time.

Both curves, one chart

R0R175kR350kR525kR700kNow1y2y3y4y5y6y7y8yYears from now
Isuzu D-Max Kia Tasman

Head to head

D-MaxTasman
New price (from)R 433 860R 679 995
±Monthly instalmentR 7 583/mR 11 885/m
Retained after 1 year87%84%
Retained after 3 years75%69%
Value after 3 yearsR 327 503R 469 782
Lost to depreciation (3y)R 106 357R 210 213
Value after 5 yearsR 277 709R 380 416
Our tierWorkhorse bakkie & ladder-frame SUVMainstream

Isuzu D-Max

Locally built in Gqeberha, the D-Max name replaced the long-running KB badge in 2018 and an all-new generation followed in 2022. It sits alongside the Hilux and Ranger among SA's top-selling bakkies and holds value well thanks to its fleet and farming following. The 3.0 diesel in particular has a reputation for going huge mileages without drama.

Known for: unbreakable workhorse reputation and strong resale

Kia Tasman

Kia's first bakkie landed in 2025, taking on the Hilux and Ranger with a 2.2 turbodiesel and styling that divides opinion. Double cabs led the launch range. It is too new to have a resale track record, so early buyers are taking the depreciation gamble.

Known for: kia's first one-ton bakkie

Common questions

Which holds value better, the Isuzu D-Max or the Kia Tasman?

The Isuzu D-Max. It keeps about 75% of its price after three years against 69% for the Kia Tasman, a gap of 6 points.

Which is cheaper to own over three years?

Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The Isuzu D-Max loses about R 106 357 over three years and the Kia Tasman loses about R 210 213. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.

What do they cost per month?

On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the Isuzu D-Max runs about R 7 583 per month and the Kia Tasman about R 11 885, before fees and insurance.

Keep going

Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.