Isuzu’s Mudmaster Put To The Test

Isuzu UK has announced the launch of its latest special project, the Isuzu D-Max Mudmaster. This vehicle is a testament to the potential of the D-Max when fully accessorised, showcasing unparalleled off-road capabilities while maintaining road comfort.

Based on the fully equipped V-Cross trim, the Mudmaster, a special off-road edition of the renowned Japanese pick-up, is built to easily conquer any terrain. It is equipped with a snorkel, winch, lifted suspension, powerful lamps on the grille and roof, steel chassis armour, and numerous other accessories. The Mudmaster is as tough as pick-ups come, offering exceptional off-road performance while ensuring a comfortable ride to and from the off-road site.

Isuzu D-Max Mudmaster Features

ARB Safari Snorkel: Elevated air intake for optimal airflow during water wading, ensuring the engine receives clean air even in deep water conditions.
COMEUP Winch: Hidden behind the front bumper, allowing for self-recovery or assisting others in off-road scenarios. The lift-up metal registration plate provides easy winch access without obstructing the vehicle’s aesthetics.
PEDDERS Off-Road Suspension Kit: Provides a 1.75” vehicle lift, significantly increasing ground clearance to navigate over rocks, logs, and other obstacles with ease.
ARB Base Rack: Mounted on the cabin for essential off-road accessories like tyre recovery pads, extra fuel cans, tow straps, or a shovel, enhancing the vehicle’s utility and preparedness for any adventure.
Plastic Under-Rail Liner: Mounted in the load bed, covered by an Alpha XS Top canopy, for maximum cargo space on expeditions or overlanding trips, protecting the bed from damage and securing cargo.
20” Hurricane Alloy Wheels: In grey colour, offering both style and durability to handle rugged terrains.
Toyo Open Country A/T III All Terrain Off-Road Tyres: Ensure superior traction and stability on various off-road surfaces, and enhance safety and performance, while maintaining road comfort.
Lazer Sentinel 7” Elite Rally-Style Lamps: Fitted on the grille to provide powerful illumination in low-light conditions, improving visibility and safety.
Lazer Linear-36 Elite Lightbar: Mounted on the roof for ultimate brightness, bringing daylight to the darkest areas and ensuring excellent visibility during night-time expeditions.
Steel Underguard Protection: Covering all drivetrain elements to protect against damage from uneven terrains and obstacles underneath the vehicle.
Wind Visors: Reducing wind noise and allowing for ventilation even during light rain, enhancing driving comfort.
Bonnet Protector: Safeguarding the bonnet from debris and stone chips, maintaining the vehicle’s appearance.
Door Handle Protectors: Preventing scratches and wear on frequently used areas, preserving the vehicle’s finish.
Lifted Off-Road Side Steps: Providing easier access to the vehicle’s cabin and adding an extra layer of protection to the side panels. The lifted profile also maintains the vehicle clearance.
Interior Rubber Mats: Offering easy-to-clean, durable protection for the vehicle’s interior from mud, dirt, and water.
Heavy Duty Seat Covers: Protecting the seats from wear and tear, ensuring the interior remains in top condition.
Illuminated Door Sills: Adding a touch of style while making it easier to enter and exit the vehicle in low light conditions.
Tow Bar with 13-Pin Electrics: Enabling the Mudmaster to tow trailers with full electrical functionality, enhancing its utility.
Cladding Kit: Providing extra protection to the vehicle’s body, preventing damage from debris and enhancing its rugged appearance.
Fender Lips: Expanding the wheel arches to accommodate larger tyres and providing additional protection from mud and debris.
Custom Design Elements: Including a white Isuzu badge and Mudmaster decals, adding a unique and distinctive look to the vehicle.

George Wallis, Isuzu UK Head of Marketing, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch of the Mudmaster, stating:
"We are incredibly excited to introduce the Isuzu D-Max Mudmaster. This special project vehicle exemplifies the versatility and robustness of the D-Max, offering our customers a vehicle that can handle the most extreme off-road conditions while still providing a comfortable driving experience on regular roads. It’s Muddy brilliant."

The Isuzu D-Max Mudmaster is based on the highest specification D-Max V-Cross model. Available in two versions with a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearbox, V-Cross is available to buy from £36,495 (CVOTR) for manual, and £38,495 (CVOTR) for automatic transmission model.

At a recent drive day, I was afforded the opportunity to test the Mudmaster off road. The venue was Parkwood Outdoors, which claims to be one of the UK’s top outdoor and off-road venues. Neither disappointed.

The venue, set in woodland to the south of Bradford, offers a variety of tracks, from the simple to the almost impossible. Our soggy summer weather ensured there was plenty of gloopy mud. With a knowledgeable instructor by my side, the Mudmaster galloped round the course, making it all seem ever so easy, even on the steepest of ascents. Descents were suitably controlled too thanks to the capable hill-descent function, fitted as standard.

Doubtless some will be drawn to the new Mudmaster by the rugged looks, but be in no doubt, the additions to the already capable D-Max pickup ensure even greater off-road capability, whilst seeming not compromising the truck’s on-road manners.

I hope to book one in for extensive testing on home turf and I am already planning my green lane adventures. Watch this space.