LONDON – Isuzu has launched the updated D-Max AT35 in the United Kingdom, giving its top-spec bakkie a fresh look and more rugged upgrades, although it remains unavailable in South Africa.
The third-generation AT35, built in partnership with Arctic Trucks, is based on the facelifted D-Max that debuted in Thailand nearly two years ago. The vehicle targets off-road rivals like the Toyota Hilux GR Sport III and Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior, rather than the Ford Ranger Raptor.
The new AT35 keeps the familiar wide-body look, now featuring extended wheel arches, 35-inch all-terrain tyres, Bilstein shock absorbers, revised dampers, and a 40 mm lift kit. It also comes with a matte black 17-inch alloy wheel set, AT badging, Arctic Trucks mudflaps, roof rails, side steps, a sport bar, tonneau cover, and a tow bar.
Towing capacity remains at 3 500 kg, and it can still carry up to 1 000 kg. The revised suspension setup offers improved approach, breakover, and departure angles of 35°, 34°, and 29° respectively.
Inside, changes are modest. The leather seats include Arctic Trucks embroidery and heating for front passengers. Standard features include an eight-speaker sound system, LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, Rough Terrain Mode selector, a seven-inch digital display cluster, and a nine-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features include front and rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Driver Attention Alert.
The UK version sticks with Isuzu’s 1.9-litre BluePower turbodiesel engine, producing 110kW and 360Nm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and part-time four-wheel drive with a standard rear diff-lock.
The AT35 is priced from £57,005 (approximately R1.37 million) and is available in eight colour options. South Africa has yet to receive the facelifted D-Max, with the current model still using the 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine rated at 140kW and 450Nm. The current AT35 based on the V-Cross retails locally at R1.18 million.
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