The Isuzu D-Max XTR prototype was revealed at the CV Show 2019 and, since its launch last year, the distinctive XTR has become a successful model for Isuzu, forming part of its ‘Adventure’ range. XTR was developed for off-road enthusiasts and drivers who want a vehicle to complement their lifestyle. Essentially, it’s for people who want to stand out from the crowd, so this year, Isuzu have enhanced it even further with the striking XTR Colour Edition.
XTR is still the most sophisticated and authentically capable pick-up in the D-Max range but there’s now an extra twist with a colour coded body kit and green Isuzu badge to refresh the look. These new changes have amplified XTR’s assertive styling but certainly don’t detract from its fantastic off-road capabilities.
The XTR body kit was custom designed for D-Max and is normally coated in a durable black Raptor finish.
Changing the XTR exterior quite dramatically, the paint finish has been upgraded on the XTR Colour Edition so that the front bumper guard, bonnet protector and headlight frames are colour-coded with the body to give an even more premium appearance. The fog light surrounds and grille have remained black to contrast the body colour sections and to maintain some of that traditional XTR aggressive styling. The vibrant green Isuzu front grille badge is a popular accessory on the original XTR but comes as standard on the Colour Edition.
The wheel arch extensions have also been colour coded but the lozenge shaped insert still repeats the flash of vibrant green that makes XTR immediately identifiable on the road. As with the standard XTR, the Colour Edition is equipped with exclusive heavy-duty 17-inch alloy wheels. These 6-spoke alloys in satin black feature a fluted, deep dish design and are fitted with Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus tyres. Isuzu are the first manufacturer to adopt these All-Season tyres as standard and they are perfectly suited to the D-Max XTR because they benefit all types of driving conditions. Quiet during on road driving, for day to day use, they are also capable on a variety of difficult off-road surfaces such as rocks, snow, mud, grass and sand.
XTR side steps have an angular bar framework which is designed to prevent rocks and stones damaging the bodywork. It has a durable textured black finish which doesn’t show marks or scratches and provides extra grip to the step surface. 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 and tinted rear windows provide a dark aesthetic.
At the rear, the tailgate spoiler has been colour coded but you can still see the XTR logo from above. The rear light surrounds are painted and the rear bumper also incorporates some body colour elements. The step remains as the black material finish and the exhaust finisher inserts are also black for contrast. When travelling behind the truck you will see more flashes of vibrant green, this time from the rear anti-roll bar and rear dampers.
The XTR Colour Edition’s sophisticated styling continues inside where XTR heated front sports seats are upholstered in leather, suede and carbon fibre leather with contrast green overstitching on the side bolsters. Not only does this mixture of leather and suede create a luxury and comfortable feel, but the suede provides extra grip which works in conjunction with the side bolsters to keep the driver in position.
An XTR logo is embroidered on the back rest of each front seat and is repeated on the rear centre headrest.
A D-shaped sports steering wheel has been moulded for comfort and grip. Trimmed in leather and suede with green overstitching, the steering wheel provides the same premium and sporty feel as the seats. What is more, each bespoke XTR steering wheel is individually finished with green overstitching that is sewn on by hand.
The Isuzu D-Max is renowned for being tough, strong and reliable but the existing capability is taken to the next level on XTR as it is equipped with a bespoke Pedders suspension and brake system making it extremely comfortable on the road and capable in the extreme off-road.
Performance front brake discs have been designed for a consistent brake pedal feel, high wear resistance and better anti–corrosion protection. They are also fully vented and slotted for improved heat dissipation and braking. Kevlar ceramic front brake pads work in combination with the discs to give a much improved braking performance and stopping power.
Not only has the brake system been engineered specifically for XTR but the suspension is also a bespoke solution from Pedders. Built to endure the harshest conditions, a front suspension upper arm and specially designed damper units help achieve a longer suspension articulation, giving impressive off-road performance. In addition, suspension height is set higher than a standard D-Max meaning XTR benefits from a 250mm ground clearance with no compromise on vehicle handling and stability.
XTR is available in Splash White, Titanium Silver Met, Obsidian Grey Mica and Cosmic Black Mica. This colour palette has been chosen to work with the vibrant green colour coding that is incorporated throughout the truck. The Colour Editions will be available in all four colours but only a limited amount of each will be produced.
Further information on price and availability will be supplied when dealer showrooms re-open after lockdown.