ISUZU D-MAX XTR

Since its launch in 2019, the distinctive D-Max XTR has become a successful model for Isuzu, forming part of its ‘Adventure’ range.  

The XTR was developed for off-road enthusiasts and drivers who want a vehicle to complement their lifestyle. Essentially, it’s for people who want to stand out from the crowd.

From 2020, the XTR came with an extra twist – a colour coded body kit and a green Isuzu badge. The changes have amplified the XTR’s assertive styling but certainly don’t detract from its fantastic off-road capabilities. The XTR body kit was custom designed for the D-Max and is normally coated in a durable black Raptor finish. 

Dramatic

Changing the XTR exterior quite dramatically, the front bumper guard, bonnet protector and headlight frames are colour-coded with the body to give an even more premium appearance. The fog light surrounds and grille have remained black to contrast the body colour sections and to maintain some of that traditional XTR aggressive styling. 

Capable

The wheel arch extensions have also been colour coded, but the lozenge shaped insert still repeats the flash of vibrant green that makes the XTR immediately identifiable on the road. As with the standard XTR, the Colour Edition is equipped with heavy-duty 17-inch alloy wheels. These six-spoke alloys in satin black feature a fluted, deep dish design and are fitted with Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus tyres. These rubbers are perfectly suited to the D-Max XTR because they benefit all types of driving conditions. Quiet during on road driving for day to day use, they are also capable on a variety of off-road surfaces, such as rocks, snow, mud, grass and sand. 

Vibrant

At the rear, the tailgate spoiler has been colour coded but you can still see the XTR logo from above. The rear light surrounds are painted and the back bumper also incorporates some body colour elements. The step remains as the black material finish and the exhaust finisher inserts are also black for contrast. When travelling behind the truck you’ll see more flashes of vibrant green, this time from the rear anti-roll bar and rear dampers.

Comfortable

The XTR Colour Edition’s sophisticated styling continues inside where XTR heated front sports seats are upholstered in leather, suede and carbon fibre, with contrast green overstitching on the side bolsters. Not only does this mixture create a luxury and comfortable feel, but the suede provides extra grip which works with the side bolsters to keep you in position.

A D-shaped sports steering wheel has been moulded for comfort and grip.  Trimmed in leather and suede with green overstitching, the steering wheel provides the same premium and sporty feel as the seats.  

Bespoke

The Isuzu D-Max is renowned for being tough, but its capability is taken to another level on the XTR because it’s equipped with a bespoke Pedders suspension and brake system. This makes it comfortable on the road and capable in the extreme off-road. 

Performance front brake discs have been designed for a consistent brake pedal feel, high wear resistance and better anti–corrosion protection. They are also vented and slotted for improved heat dissipation and braking. Kevlar ceramic front brake pads work in combination with the discs to give improved stopping power.

In addition, the suspension height is set higher than a standard D-Max, meaning the XTR benefits from a 250mm ground clearance with no compromise on vehicle handling and stability.

New For 2021

The XTR we’ve described is now a used buy – but it’s still awesome. Don’t fret if you are a “new only will do” truck-buying dad, though, because the third-generation D-Max (pictured below) has just been launched. It’s on sale now, with prices kicking off at £20,999 (excluding VAT) and topping out at £32,749.

The D-Max pick-up is divided into a trio of ranges – Business, All-Purpose and Adventure – all featuring many cab-sizes and models within the line-up.