Unique Isuzu D-Max GO2 off-roader unveiled

This is the Isuzu D-Max GO2. It’s a unique build project, designed specifically for off-road driving, which was commissioned by Isuzu UK in order to prove the versatility of the pick-up truck’s platform.

It’s based on the range-topping D-Max Utah – albeit with an extensive list of cosmetic and mechanical upgrades, (similar in form and function to those fitted to the old D-Max AT35 Arctic Trucks), which Isuzu says makes it suitable for the most gruelling off-road expeditions.

Styling revisions include an intake snorkel, a roof-mounted LED light-bar, a fresh pair of chequer plate side steps, a heavy-duty winch and a chunky bull-bar, which is designed to push through the undergrowth when driving off-road. There’s another heavy-set bumper at the rear, which has been fitted with an uprated tow-bar.

Isuzu has also upgraded the D-Max’s load bed with a lockable aluminium drawer storage system and a new roller cover. In addition, the GO2’s tailgate has been fitted with a pair of spring-loaded hinges, which prevents the panel from slamming into the pick-up’s body when opened.

The D-Max GO2’s chassis upgrades are equally involved. Isuzu has fitted taller, adjustable suspension, a new rear anti-roll bar, a lockable rear differential and new front wishbones, which allow for greater wheel articulation. There’s also a set of smaller 16-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in knobbly 33-inch General Grabber X3 Mud Terrain tyres.

Isuzu has also replaced the D-Max’s front disc brakes with larger vented units gripped by part-ceramic pads, while the pick-up’s standard rear drum brakes have been swapped for a Pedders drum and disc combination. The system looks much like a standard disc brake setup, but features a recess near the axle hub which carries an extra set of drum shoes.

Finally, to prevent the upgrades from being damaged while driving off-road, Isuzu has added a suite of underbody protection panels. There’s a thick bash-plate for the uprated rear differential, as well as a new stainless steel guard on the front axle which protects the engine and suspension components.

The rest of the D-Max GO2’s specification matches that of the standard-issue D-Max Utah. As such, it comes with automatic air conditioning, a leather steering wheel, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, an eight-speaker stereo and a seven-inch infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Like the standard D-Max pick-up, the GO2 is powered by a turbocharged 1.9-litre four- cylinder diesel engine, which sends its power to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. The powertrain has an output of 162bhp and 360Nm of torque, which is enough for a 0–62mph time of around 13 seconds and a top speed of 112mph. More importantly, the powertrain allows the D-Max to haul a maximum payload of around 1,100kg.

Darren James, Group Resources Director at Isuzu UK commented: “This is a fantastic working example of just how easily the Isuzu D-Max can be adapted and transformed into a ‘do anything, go anywhere’ pick-up and should definitely give our customers some inspiration for what they can achieve in their own D-Max.”

What do you make of the Isuzu D-Max GO2? Let us know in the comments section below…