New Arctic Trucks Isuzu D-Max AT35 on sale now

We like an Arctic Trucks conversion on PH. Hard not to, really, because they look like the kind of trucks you wanted to drive as a kid. There’s even a D-Max in Readers’ Cars. This is AT’s latest Isuzu-based build, the D-Max AT35, and it’s on sale today, from £57,005 CVOTR as double-cab auto (the only spec offered). Or almost £20k more than the next most expensive Isuzu pickup. So best really, really want one.  

While powered by the same 1.9-litre diesel as a standard D-Max, the AT35 receives a familiar raft of upgrades from Arctic to make it look rather more butch. And venture further off-road, of course. But mainly look good. Most notably these include the 35-inch BFGoodrich KO2 tyres on 17-inch AT wheels – the school run will pose no problems with those fitted. They’re accommodated by the widebody kit and Bilstein suspension for 40mm extra clearance, the exact setup bespoke to Arctic and meaning off-road mouth to match the trousers – approach, breakover and ramp angles are 35°, 34° and 29° respectively. 

Additional changes include a receiver hitch out back, which can be hooked up to winches, steps, ‘gear carriers’ and the like, a rear diff lock and a Rough Terrain Mode. Those last two together sound like they could be entertaining. That’s all on top of the extra cosmetic bits that mark the mega D-Maxes out, including Arctic Trucks badges all round, their own floor mats and even a certificate of conformity. It’s like buying a Shelby Cobra. 

None of the extra muscle comes at the expense of the D-Max’s famed usability, either: it can still carry more than a tonne, and tow 3.5. Proper truck. Isuzu says the AT35 ‘offers exceptional off-road performance, serious commercial capability, and advanced safety technology — all in a bold, unmistakable design.’ The Raptor lads may be faster, but we all know which pickup looks cooler. Arctic’s MD Peter Smith added: “The new Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 represents the evolution of everything we’ve learned over more than three decades of engineering world-class off-road vehicles. It’s a bold and capable pick-up that stands ready for anything, from remote terrain to demanding job sites. Together with Isuzu, we’ve created a vehicle that delivers genuine off-road ability without compromising comfort, safety or commercial versatility.” Sounds like a perfect PH Sunday Service wagon, in fact, though we might need to sell a few more hoodies first. Still, the classifieds would suggest AT35s hold their value pretty well…