Isuzu has updated the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, one of the most extreme dealer-sold lifestyle pickups available in the UK.
Some of the revisions are merely cosmetic – there’s a new Arctic Trucks logo, for example – but there are plenty of hardware changes, too, including the suspension.
What’s new on the outside?
The existing bulging wheel arches, 35-inch off-road tyres and 17-inch black alloy wheels remain as they were on the previous AT35 model, but the black side steps now feature an extended side profile and a ‘chunky tread pattern’ finish.
These are also one of the areas where the new AT logo appears, complete with ‘lava’ colour coding.
You’ll also find this on the wheel centre caps, the front wings and the tailgate.
What’s new on the inside?
Most obvious update on the inside comes in the form of new quilted leather seats, which are fitted as standard and feature a ‘striking geometric pattern’ and ‘central spine detailing’.
That doesn’t sound especially comfortable at first read, does it? But Isuzu UK has also added extra contouring in the form of side bolsters in the front. The front headrests get an Arctic Trucks logo.
You’ll find this again on the start-up screen of the new 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which not only includes sat-nav, DAB radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but also no fewer than nine speakers.
There’s also a wireless phone charger in the top glovebox, front and rear USB ports, and an HDMI port.
Plus the screen functions as a display for the new forward parking camera located on the front bumper – handy when you’re driving a truck as tall as this one, and something that may prove helpful when manoeuvring off-road, too.
A reversing camera and parking sensors are also part of the package.
What’s new underneath?
In a slightly unexpected change, Isuzu has ditched the previous Fox Racing suspension in favour of a new Bilstein set-up.
The official line is that this will ‘ensure the D-Max Arctic Trucks can tackle even tougher terrains’.
Does this mean the Fox stuff has proved a little tricky from a reliability perspective? Let us know if you’ve got an earlier AT35 and have experienced problems via the usual Parkers feedback email address.
How much does the 2020 Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 cost?
Are you sitting down? For an AT35 fitted with the standard six-speed manual transmission you’re looking at £39,995, while the six-speed automatic will set you back £40,995.
Both prices are on the road, but exclude VAT.
For that you get the standard 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine with 164hp and 360Nm of torque (not the fastest combination with those big wheels), a 3.5-tonne towing capacity and a choice of six colours.
All D-Max pickups – including the AT35 – come with a five-year, 125,000-mile warranty and five years of UK and European roadside assistance.
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