Farming Monthly National May 2016 | Page 70

| Motors Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35: Most extreme D-Max ever sold Isuzu is launching the most extreme D-Max to its already comprehensive model line-up. he new Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is engineered to excel in the most arduous terrain, whether in the wilds of the British countryside or on building sites in the city. Available in either double-cab or extended-cab configurations, the AT35 is the most extraordinarily capable pick-up that Isuzu UK has ever put on sale. It is priced from £30,995. Standing out from the crowd in terms of both its unprecedented off-road capabilities as well its aesthetics, the AT35 builds on the strong and durable platform of the multi-award winning DMax. In addition to the high levels of standard equipment, a comprehensive accessories list allows customers to spec their AT35 according to their unique requirements. Arctic Trucks is a vehicle engineering specialist, developing and building 4x4 vehicles able to conquer the most challenging conditions for over 25 years. The Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 will be the first Arctic Trucks pick-up in the UK that can be ordered directly from a vehicle manufacturer’s dealer network. The AT35 retains the impressive one-tonne payload and 3.5-tonne towing (braked) capacities that have helped keep the Isuzu DMax one of the most popular pick-ups for those seeking an exceptional workhorse with low running costs. Enhanced running gear The AT35 introduces several key hardware enhancements, ensuring extraordinary off-road capability that is unprecedented in the UK. Suspension is re-engineered with Fox Performance Series shocks, which help deliver increased mobility over even the most rutted tracks and brutal boulders. Special all-terrain Nokian Rotiiva AT tyres endow the AT35 with improved all-round grip in the most challenging, slippery conditions. These huge 35-inch tyres are specifically engineered for off-road surfaces, with the T 70 | Farming Monthly | May 2016 rubber fitted to 17”x10” wheels, considerably larger than the standard D-Max. The vehicle accommodates larger diameter tyres and boasts wider extended flares, giving the AT35 a securely planted and powerful look. The combined effect of Arctic Trucks specialised suspension and larger tyres is a ride height 125mm higher than the equivalent standard 4x4 Isuzu D-Max. With the increased ground clearance comes greater approach, departure and break-over angles, capable of tackling the harsh Icelandic terrain or the steep slate slopes of Wales. In addition, drivers and passengers will benefit from improved all-round visibility, a great advantage for identifying the safest route to an ultimate destination, whether that’s across ice fields in Norway or icy moors of north Yorkshire. Two body configurations The AT35 is available in double-cab and extended-cab configurations. The extended-cab body was designed from the ground up as an ‘open-cab’ pick-up. To create this space-making design, Isuzu’s engineers developed a second-row, rear-hinged door, also known as the side-access panel (SAP) on each side of the vehicle. To ensure maximum strength, and safety in the event of a collision, the engineers incorporated a one-piece B-pillar into the leading edge of the side access panels. The result is uninterrupted access to the side of the cabin, ideal when loading large items behind the front seats. The side access panels can be opened from both inside and outside the vehicle. The rear seat cushions fold down from the back panel, creating additional seating, with fold-out thigh supports offering occupants even greater levels of comfort. Strong chassis, powerful engine, manual and auto transmissions The AT35 is based on the same tough and durable chassis of the Isuzu D-Max chassis. It is made of high tensile strength steel with crossmember braces to ensure exceptional torsional rigidity and large cross-sectional dimensions for a strong and stable structure. Additional cross braces aid torsional rigidity and also spread the weight of payloads evenly, enhancing the vehicle’s laden handling balance, both on- and off-road. Under the bonnet of the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is the highly-efficient 2.5-litre twin-turbo diesel engine that delivers 163 PS and 400 Nm torque for all models in the D-Max line-up. Isuzu offers the largest range of automatic pickup models on the market and buyers of the double-cab AT35 can also select auto transmission. The five-speed automatic features sequential manual shift control so that drivers can take direct control of gear selection for a more engaging experience – or allow the transmission to operate fully automatically to suit their mood and the terrain. A shift-on-the-fly two- /four- / low-ratio fourwheel drive selector dial is located on the centre console. The system allows drivers to switch between two-wheel drive and high-ratio four-wheel drive at speeds up to 60 mph (100 km/h). Low-ratio four-wheel-drive can be engaged while stationary with the transmission in neutral, and, combined with other Arctic Trucks enhancements, means the AT35 can crawl up and over almost anything it finds itself in front of. Low running costs Despite being the most capable pick-up ever to be launched onto the UK market, buyers and operators will benefit from the same ultra-low running costs that all Isuzu D-Max owners enjoy. This is thanks to a competitive 42E insurance rating, low-cost finance packages and a comprehensive three-year / 60,000 mile warranty package. In addition, costs are kept low by 12,000-mile or 24-month service intervals, three years recovery and assistance cover, a three-year paint warranty, and a sixyear anti-corrosion warranty. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk