Image: Isuzu
Image: Isuzu
Image: Isuzu
Image: Isuzu
NewsBy: Ryan De Villiers
Tough, capable and more expensive than Ford’s Raptor, do the enhancements to the D-Max AT35 justify its now seven-figure price tag?
Image: Isuzu
Pricing:
– Isuzu D-Max Arctic AT35: R1 120 620
The Arctic AT35 is produced locally at Isuzu’s Struandale production plant, which is said to be the only Arctic Trucks accredited plant in the world.
Its wheel arches have been broadened to accommodate for the new 17X10-inch AT black alloy wheels wrapped in 35-inch BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres.
Accompanying the new wheels is a “specially developed” suspension lift kit which has contributed to an increase in ride height from 1 810 mm to 1 875 mm and consequentially has increased its ground clearance from 232mm to 266mm.
The lift kit features a pair of Bilstein dampers purposed to improve on-road and off-road driving capability and characteristics. Serving as cosmetic enhancements, the Arctic AT35 is equipped with wider side steps, Arctic mudflaps and several AT35 chrome badges across its undeniably muscular frame.
Image: Isuzu
Aside from these additions, the D-Max’s offering remains relatively unchanged. The powertrain is undisturbed and delivers the same 140 kW/400 N.m as the R857k V-Cross model.
The new bakkie is offered with Isuzu’s standard five-year/90 000km service plan, five-year/120 000km warranty and roadside assistance plan and a five-year unlimited distance anti-corrosion warranty.
Image: Isuzu
The Isuzu AT35 trumps the Raptor’s already heart-rate-elevating price tag yet on paper does not deliver enough under the bonnet to justify being in the same price bracket.
Is it a shame that the tried and tested 3,0-litre diesel remains in this range-topper?
Image: Isuzu
Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Keyword: Isuzu’s Arctic AT35 gets Raptor-Level Price-Tag