Isuzu has launched the new D-Max Arctic AT35 in South Africa – the ultimate version of its highly-successful bakkie series – at a starting price of R1,120,620.
The burly D-Max is available in limited numbers on special order through the automaker’s local dealership network, and each one is sold with a 5-year/120,000km warranty and roadside assistance plan, and a 5-year/90,000km service plan.
“As the range-topping model in the D-Max line-up, the AT35 appeals to buyers who want to stand out from the crowd, as well as those aiming to exploit the vehicle’s adventurous nature and its remarkable off-road capabilities,” said the company.
This is the second time the 4×4-maker has partnered with Icelandic company Artic Trucks, having previously launched the first-generation D-Max AT35 in 2019.
Off-road prowess
Based on the range-topping V-Cross 4×4, the special-edition model is built right here in South Africa at the manufacturer’s Struandale plant in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.
A dedicated Artic Trucks conversion centre was created in the body shop, as the standard D-Max needs to be altered with bigger wheel wells and arches so as to accommodate a set of 35-inch BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres and 17-inch black alloy rims.
During this time, the bakkie is also fitted with a specially-developed suspension kit and Bilstein dampers, as well as other off-roading elements like wider side steps and Artic Trucks mud flaps.
A full-size spare wheel is situated beneath the load box, and a ResQ Puncture Repair Kit is included as standard with every purchase.
The special wheels and suspension mean that the high-rider’s off-roading prowess has been significantly improved, as you can see in the table below:
| Attribute | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross | Isuzu D-Max Arctic AT35 |
|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance | 232mm | 262mm |
| Wading depth | 800mm | 865mm |
| Approach angle | 30 degrees | 33 degrees |
| Break-over angle | 22.5 degrees | 34 degrees |
| Departure angle | 18 degrees | 23 degrees |
Like the V-Cross, the Arctic has a lockable rear differential, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a part-time four-wheel-drive system, letting users switch between 4WD high and low-range gears as needed.
It also uses the same 3.0-litre, turbocharged diesel engine, giving it a power ceiling of 140kW and 450Nm.
Features
To reinforce the unique status of this model, Isuzu has given the bakkie leather upholstery with AT35 logos embroidered into the seats, and similar decals can be found on the gearstick and floor mats.
The piano-black centre console features a 9-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an eight-speaker stereo and an inductive phone charger, and the front seats have eight-way electronic adjustment and lumbar support.
The Japanese carmaker has also fitted a wide range of driver assistance functions to its star D-Max, including a stereo camera system with sonar and radar technologies, forward-collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitors, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Other items include automatic LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, climate control, keyless entry and start, and tyre-pressure monitors.
Isuzu D-Max Arctic AT35
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