Best Exhaust for Isuzu D-MAX — All Generations | Outback Exhausts
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Why the Isuzu D-MAX Deserves a Better Exhaust
The Isuzu D-MAX has earned a serious reputation in Australia. Whether you're running one as a daily driver, a tow rig or a fully kitted out touring setup. It's a Ute that gets used hard and is expected to keep up. The 3.0L turbo diesel engines the 4JJ1 and the newer 4JJ3 are strong capable units. But like most factory setups the exhaust system is a compromise. It's built to a price point not to perform.
An exhaust upgrade is one of the most practical modifications you can make on a D-MAX. It's not about chasing big power numbers it's about making the engine breathe better, run cooler under load and feel more responsive when you need it. If you tow, tour or just want your D-MAX to feel more alive a proper exhaust is a smart place to start.
At Outback Exhausts we manufacture exhaust systems for the D-MAX right here in Australia. This guide covers every system we make, which engine and year it suits and what you'll actually notice in the real world.
Know Your Engine First
The D-MAX has run two main 3.0L turbo diesel engines across its production life and the right exhaust system depends on which one you have.
4JJ1 — 3.0L Turbo Diesel (2007–2020)
The 4JJ1 is the engine that powered the D-MAX from its early days right through to 2020. It's a proven reliable unit that responds well to exhaust work. Depending on your year of manufacture you'll be looking at either a turbo back system or a DPF back system the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) was introduced in the 2017–2020 models so if you're running one of those you'll need to work around it.
4JJ3 — 3.0L Turbo Diesel (2020-On)
The 4JJ3 is the current generation engine introduced with the updated D-MAX in late 2020. It's a more refined unit with tighter emissions compliance which means a DPF is standard. Exhaust options for the 4JJ3 include both a DPF back and a full turbo back system depending on your setup and requirements.
Exhaust Systems We Make for the Isuzu D-MAX
Every system below is manufactured in Australia and designed to bolt straight on. Here's the full range, broken down by engine and year.
4JJ1 — 2007 to 2010
Turbo Back Exhaust
For the early 4JJ1 D-MAX, our Turbo Back Exhaust for the D-MAX 4JJ1 (2007–2010) is a full 3 inch system running from the turbo outlet to the rear. No DPF to work around on these earlier models so you get the full benefit of a completely unrestricted turbo back setup. Better flow, lower EGTs and a noticeably improved throttle response.
4JJ1 — 2010 to 2012
Turbo Back Exhaust
The 2010–2012 D-MAX runs the same pre-DPF 4JJ1 and our Turbo Back Exhaust for the D-MAX 4JJ1 (2010–2012) is purpose built for this generation. Same 3 inch construction same Australian made quality just spec'd to suit the specific fitment of this model year.
4JJ1 — 2012 to 2016
Turbo Back Exhaust
The 2012–2016 D-MAX is one of the most popular generations we see come through and for good reason it's a solid platform that responds well to modifications. Our Turbo Back Exhaust for the D-MAX 4JJ1 (2012–2016) is a full 3 inch turbo back system built to suit this generation exactly.
Dump Pipe
If you're after a targeted upgrade rather than a full system our Dump Pipe for the D-MAX / MU-X 4JJ1 (2012–2016) is a direct replacement for the factory dump pipe. It's a great option if you already have a cat back or mid pipe setup and just want to free up the restriction right at the turbo outlet.
4JJ1 — 2016 to 2020
Turbo Back Exhaust
The 2017–2020 D-MAX introduced the DPF which changes the exhaust equation. Our Turbo Back Exhaust for the D-MAX 4JJ1 (2017–2020) is available in 3 inch and 3.5 inch options with your choice of resonator with small muffler for a medium note or straight pipe for a louder setup. This is the most comprehensive upgrade available for this generation (off-road/exempt use only see disclaimer below.)
DPF Back Exhaust
Prefer to keep your DPF in place? Our DPF Back Exhaust for the D-MAX 4JJ1 (2017–2020) improves flow from the DPF to the rear without touching the filter itself. It's a cleaner, more compliance friendly option that still delivers a meaningful improvement in flow and sound.
4JJ3 — 2020-On
Turbo Back Exhaust
For the current generation D-MAX our Turbo Back Exhaust for the D-MAX 4JJ3 (2020-On) is a full system built specifically for the new platform. It's the most complete upgrade available for the current D-MAX and the one we'd recommend if you want maximum flow improvement (off-road/exempt use only see disclaimer below.)
DPF Back Exhaust
Keeping the DPF? Our DPF Back Exhaust for the D-MAX 4JJ3 (2020-On) is the right call. It improves everything from the DPF outlet to the rear and is a straightforward bolt-on upgrade that works within the factory emissions setup.
D-MAX Exhaust Systems — Comparative Overview
| Exhaust System | Engine Fit | Pipe Size | Best For | Key Benefit | View Product |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbo Back Exhaust | 4JJ1 3.0L (2007–2010) | 3" | Full system upgrade; no DPF to work around | Maximum flow improvement, lower EGTs, better throttle response | View Product |
| Turbo Back Exhaust | 4JJ1 3.0L (2010–2012) | 3" | Full system upgrade; pre-DPF generation | Unrestricted turbo-back flow, reduced back pressure, improved drivability | View Product |
| Turbo Back Exhaust | 4JJ1 3.0L (2012–2016) | 3" | Most popular generation; full system upgrade | Full turbo-back flow, lower EGTs, stronger mid-range pull | View Product |
| Dump Pipe | 4JJ1 3.0L (2012–2016) | 3" | Targeted upgrade at the turbo outlet; existing cat back fitted | Removes restriction right at the turbo; pairs well with existing mid/cat back | View Product |
| Turbo Back Exhaust | 4JJ1 3.0L (2017–2020) | 3" or 3.5" | Maximum upgrade; DPF-delete setup | Full system flow, choice of sound level, 3" or 3.5" pipe options | View Product |
| DPF Back Exhaust | 4JJ1 3.0L (2017–2020) | 3" | Keeping DPF in place; compliance-friendly upgrade | Improved rear-section flow, better sound, DPF retained | View Product |
| Turbo Back Exhaust | 4JJ3 3.0L (2020-On) | 3.5" | Maximum upgrade on current gen D-MAX | Full turbo-back flow on new platform, maximum performance gains | View Product |
| DPF Back Exhaust | 4JJ3 3.0L (2020-On) | 3.5" | Keeping DPF; bolt-on upgrade for current gen | Improved flow from DPF to rear, works within factory emissions setup | View Product |
Turbo Back vs DPF Back — Which One Do You Need?
This is the question we get asked most often about the D-MAX and the answer comes down to your year of manufacture and what you want to do with the DPF.
- Pre-2017 D-MAX (4JJ1): No DPF from the factory so a turbo back system is the natural choice. You get the full benefit of an unrestricted system from the turbo outlet to the rear.
- 2016–2020 D-MAX (4JJ1) and 2020-On (4JJ3): These models have a DPF. If you want to keep it in place for compliance, warranty or personal preference go DPF back. If you're running a tune and want the full system upgrade the turbo back is the way to go. Please note turbo back systems are for off-road/exempt use only see disclaimer below.
Either way you're getting a meaningful improvement over factory. The DPF back is the more conservative option the turbo back is the more comprehensive one.
What Size Pipe Does a D-MAX Need?
- 4JJ1 (2007–2020): 3 inch is the standard and correct size for this engine. It flows well without losing exhaust velocity.
- 4JJ1 (2017–2020) Turbo Back: Available in 3 inch or 3.5 inch. The 3.5 inch option suits builds with supporting modifications.
- 4JJ3 (2020-On): 3.5 inch is the spec for the current generation engine reflecting the increased exhaust volume of the updated platform.
What Will You Actually Notice?
We'll be straight with you an exhaust upgrade isn't going to turn your D-MAX into a race truck. But the real world improvements are genuine and noticeable especially if you use your Ute the way it was meant to be used.
- Better throttle response particularly in the mid range where you spend most of your time
- Reduced exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) important when towing or running hard in hot conditions
- A deeper more purposeful exhaust note without being antisocial
- Improved engine breathing under sustained load touring, towing or climbing
- A solid foundation for further modifications if you're planning a tune down the track
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the exhaust differ between the 4JJ1 and 4JJ3?
Yes the 4JJ3 is a different engine on a different platform so the exhaust systems are not interchangeable. Make sure you're selecting the system that matches your engine code and year of manufacture. If you're unsure get in touch and we'll confirm the right fit.
Can I fit an Outback Exhausts system myself?
Our systems are designed as direct bolt-on replacements. If you're mechanically confident and have access to a hoist or jack stands fitting is straightforward. That said we always recommend having exhaust work done by a qualified mechanic to ensure correct fitment and avoid exhaust leaks.
Do you make exhausts for the Isuzu MU-X as well?
Yes the MU-X shares the same 4JJ1 engine family and we manufacture systems for it too. Check out our full Isuzu Exhaust Systems range for the complete lineup.
Do you ship Australia-wide?
Yes we ship to all states and territories. Most metro areas receive their order within 2–5 business days. We also ship internationally if you're ordering from overseas get in touch to confirm shipping options and freight costs.
Browse All Isuzu D-MAX Exhaust Systems
Ready to find the right system for your D-MAX? Browse our full range of Isuzu D-MAX Exhaust Systems all Australian made all built to last.
Not sure which system suits your build? Get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.
Disclaimer: The turbo back exhaust system for 2016-on 4JJ1 and 4JJ3 models are intended strictly for off-road racing, ADF, mining vehicles, overseas models exempt from Australian Design Rules (ADR) or vehicles with valid Primary Producer exemptions. Installing this product on a 2016-on model renders the vehicle non-compliant with ADR standards for road use. It is the owner's responsibility to verify regulatory compliance before purchasing.
