A Detailed Review of 2022 Isuzu D-Max Basecamp

Autofun Philippines –We test-drive the Isuzu D-Max Basecamp, a specially equipped model based on the AT35 that has been able to add a variety of aftermarket accessories. Although the Isuzu D-Max faces stiff competition from the new Ford Ranger, it’s still a popular choice, and while it doesn’t offer any variants that can compete with the Raptor, you can do many things on the secondary market. Although the Arctic Trucks AT35 version is not available in Australia, it is a good example of what can be done and what you can expect in terms of capabilities. While we quickly came to appreciate the model, we also sampled the Basecamp Edition which takes things a step further with additions like ARB and iKamper to make it a real amphibious vehicle. Take Isuzu D-Max price Philippines into consideration, the car is worthy.

Built-in conjunction with Iceland’s off-road Arctic Trucks, the AT35 is so-called because that’s the diameter of the off-road tires it rides on. Those oversized tires (which measure 315/70 on 17-inch black alloy wheels) required a bit of modification to the D-Max itself to accommodate them, so the Bilstein suspension has been tweaked. This includes new springs and shock absorbers and a chassis lift that lifts the AT35 50 mm higher than standard. The increased ground clearance of the AT35 means a ground clearance of 266mm at the front and 290mm at the rear, and improved approach and departure angles, respectively, by 35 and 29 degrees. 

There’s also a 34-degree tilt to play with. Visual enhancements include extended side steps – necessary to climb into the raised cabin – and onion-shaped wheel arches to cover the width of the 35-inch tires. Completing the upgrades are Arctic Trucks-branded fenders, while the rest of the AT35’s specs are based on a highly specified trim level. That means plenty of onboard kits, including a 9-inch Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment screen (no factory-seated navigation), leather (with Arctic Trucks branding), power chargers, and more. wireless telephony, dual-zone climate control and a range of security systems. 

On top of that, the unique Basecamp Edition pictured here gets a new twist to make the AT35 the ultimate wild warrior. The main update is the addition of a Gearmate hard roof that allows the iKamper SkyCamp Mini tent to be mounted on top. This pop-up tent pops up with ease, while a lightweight ladder folds out for access – no need to worry about tent stakes or ground sheets here, as you can camp anywhere while parking. . The hard top features lockable metal sides that open to reveal additional bed sections, courtesy of Australian off-road equipment specialist ARB. 

Here you’ll find Outback Solutions’ modular Roll Drawers, which fill the luggage compartment completely but feature two extendable drawers to stash your kit. The left drawer comes with a pull-out stove unit, a three-burner gas stove, and a collapsible sink for a more civilized camping experience. Isuzu also fitted Basecamp with a large fridge-freezer, mounted above a carpeted drawer system. 

ARB also offers a sturdy Base Rack roof storage compartment, which also integrates a super bright laser light bar, allowing you to store the essentials to support you in any picnic you may be doing. presently. Finally, the nose spoilers and side visors complete the makeover for Basecamp. While the model is only created once, the Isuzu dealer network will be able to help buyers customize their truck with as many of these option sets as possible at the time of purchase. 

On the road, the AT35 feels tall, but no taller than a standard D-Max, and the raised travel height helps you position the car on the road. The weight of the Basecamp accessories shouldn’t really affect the truck’s performance either, as the inherently high ride height means this isn’t a model you want to push harder than necessary. One of the highlights of the AT35 is the improved ride feel compared to the standard D-Max. 

The combination of Bilstein shock absorbers and large tire walls means that most bumps are absorbed before they reach the cabin, greatly improving passenger comfort. There’s a bit more noise from the tires at higher speeds, but it’s not harsher than what you’d experience on a regular truck with off-road tires. The main problem of the D-Max Basecamp, which is a specialty of the UK market, is the diesel engine. 

While the Australian Isuzu offers both 3.0-litre and 1.9-litre diesel options, Britons are only satisfied with the 121kW 1.9-litre diesel. It’s not the most powerful gear, while the super short first gear on the manual model doesn’t help either; As soon as you start, you have to switch to second. But that’s not the case locally where you choose the 3.0 liter unit. 

Arctic Trucks D-Max has a lot of visual touches, and that’s not all for the show, as large tires and revised suspension offer better off-roading and handling. better on the runway. The Basecamp Edition shows what can be achieved if you want the ultimate mobile home and have an unlimited budget.