Isuzu’s distinctive D-Max XTR has become a very successful model for Isuzu, forming part of its ‘Adventure’ range. XTR was developed for off-road enthusiasts and drivers who want a vehicle that is competent over rough and demanding terrain. To further bolster its appeal Isuzu have launched the XTR Colour Edition.
The XTR remains the most sophisticated and authentically capable pick-up in the D-Max range but in Colour Edition trim it now offers colour coded body kit and a green Isuzu badge – aimed at refreshing the XTR’s styling whilst not detracting from its fantastic off-road capabilities.
The XTR body kit was specifically designed for D-Max and is normally coated in a durable black Raptor finish. However, the nex XTR Colour Edition offers a different paint option meaning that the front bumper guard, wheel arch extensions, bonnet protector, rear tailgate spoiler and headlight frames are colour-coded with the body. The fog light surrounds and grille have remained black to contrast the body colour sections. The vibrant green Isuzu front grille badge is a popular accessory on the original XTR but now comes as standard on the Colour Edition. As with the standard XTR, the Colour Edition is equipped with exclusive heavy-duty 6-spoke satin black 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus (all season) tyres.
The XTR durable, black side steps have an angular bar framework which makes them function as rock sliders and sill protectors too. The steps have a lozenge shaped infill which acts as a drain point for mud, sand and snow. Black door mirror covers and black door handles complement the steps on the XTR Colour Edition in conjunction with tinted rear windows. The rear light surrounds are also painted and the rear bumper also incorporates some body colour elements. The step exhaust finisher inserts are also black for added contrast. Another colourful feature means when travelling behind the truck drivers will see flashes of vibrant green from both the rear anti-roll bar and rear dampers. The XTR Colour Edition’s heated front sports seats are upholstered in leather, suede and carbon fibre leather with contrast green overstitching on the side bolsters. An XTR logo is embroidered on the back rest of each front seat and is repeated on the rear centre headrest. The D-shaped, sports XTR steering wheel is individually finished with green overstitching that is sewn on by hand.
The Isuzu D-Max XTR Colour Edition benefits from bespoke Pedders suspension and brake system designed to be comfortable on the road and capable in the extreme off-road – the XTR benefits from kevlar ceramic front brake pads and has 250mm ground clearance.
The XTR Colour Edition will be available in Splash White, Titanium Silver Met, Obsidian Grey Mica and Cosmic Black Mica (as is the standard XTR) and only a limited number of each colour will be available as Colour Edition models. Another Isuzu range upgrade during the COVID-19 lockdown is the D-Max Utility tipper conversion. Based on the Utility Extended Cab, the conversion is a cost-effective solution for customers who require a tough and reliable tipper, with great off-road capabilities. The tipper conversion combines all the essential workhorse attributes of the D-Max Utility with the practicality of a durable and lightweight tipper body.
The tipper conversion load bed is 1,977mm long by 1,800mm wide. The bed is constructed using 18mm thick interlocking alloy floor panels with 300mm high sideboards and tailboard and heavy-duty underfloor tie points. The tailboard, which opens to 180°, features a 2-way hinge assembly – meaning it can be opened from both the top and bottom – and rubber buffer stops to protect the body. Meanwhile, the spring latches on the sideboards are recessed to avoid catching on objects and the corner posts are removable to provide an open platform – perfect for loading and unloading.
A wander lead control is used to activate the electro-hydraulic power pack that lifts the body. The tipping gear and subframe have been fully galvanised to protect them from the elements and, once raised, there’s an integral body prop and hose burst safety valve to stop the body from falling unexpectedly. For safety reasons, a dual-tone alarm is activated when the body is raised or lowered and, rubber moulded body rests have been added to prevent the tipper body clattering the frame while driving and distracting the driver. Completing the tipper conversion, a powder-coated tubular gantry infilled with a protection panel has been fitted to shield the cab. The Utility has a heated rear screen as standard so the protection panel, complete with Isuzu logo, has been finished with a laser cut square design to ensure clear visibility when reversing.
The Utility features a hard-wearing black front bumper, black door handles and heated black door mirrors. The interior includes two 12-volt sockets, remote control central locking, an easy-cleanable vinyl floor covering and under seat base storage plus manual air-conditioning, power windows and an RDS radio with Bluetooth connectivity and USB port. It also comes with a wide range of safety equipment as standard like driver, passenger and curtain airbags. In addition, there is Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control and Trailer Sway Control, which complements the 3.5t towing capacity.
The D-Max Utility tipper conversion will be a low volume vehicle with an expected lead time of approximately four weeks. The tipper will be sold through the Isuzu dealer network as a used approved conversion and will therefore benefit from the same aftersales support, including a 5-year/125,000-mile warranty package and 5 years’ roadside assistance in the UK & Europe.
Further information on price and availability of both new D-Max additions will be supplied as-and-when Isuzu dealer showrooms re-open after COVID-19 lockdown ends.
