When it comes to competitive value, the Isuzu D-Max is always held in rather high esteem in 4WD circles. And with the latest model only a year old, you might be able to pick up a D-Max Series 2 (the model produced between 2012 and 2020) for a great price.
While the latest model is always going to offer newer technology, the Series 2 is still a formidable off-road beast. While it’s not the most comfortable on-road ride in the world, it’s a surprisingly nimble machine, given its size, and boasts a powerful twin-turbo engine with 1.9, 2.5 and 3 litre options.
It’s also a modder’s dream, which is why we’re going to be focusing today on our top 5 recommended upgrades for your Isuzu D-Max Series 2.
1. EVC throttle controller
The D-Max Series 2 is a pretty punchy ride but off the shelf, it’s not particularly flexible when it comes to throttle response. The EVC device is a simple, affordable and effective upgrade that plugs directly into your pedal assembly and can be up and running in literally minutes. You’ll be given access to a raft of throttle response options that will dramatically increase your options when it comes to how your throttle behaves. You’ll be glad you took the plunge.
2. Suspension kit
The stock suspension of your Series 2 will depend on when it was manufactured. There were revisions in 2018 that made the suspension a little more comfortable but in older models, the suspension can provide a rather harsh ride. You could swap out old springs and shock absorbers but the ideal option would be a complete suspension kit replacement, with Old Man Emu offering one of the most dependable kits.
3. Snorkel kit
If you live in a particularly wet part of the world and often find yourself driving through small to medium bodies of water then your engine could end up being water-logged. That’s because, by default, the intake is located beneath your vehicle. A snorkel kit, meanwhile, raises the intake above your bonnet and not only keeps water out of the engine but dust too. Given the Series 2’s reputation as a knockabout off-roader, a snorkel kit could be a wise and affordable investment. And it looks cool too!
4. Roof racks
While the D-Max Series 2 does boast a pretty substantial storage space, a roof rack can dramatically increase the usability of the vehicle as an off-road rig. A roof rack is a more secure and flexible place to store everything from jerry cans of fuel to mountain bikes and canoes. You can even use it as a base for a roof tent if you’re thinking of spending a few nights under the stars. The Deluxe Roof Rack by ARB is a good all-rounder.
5. Heavy-duty brake kit
This will replace your stock discs and pads with alternatives that offer higher initial bite and friction consistency from low to high temperatures. An ideal option if you’re looking to use your Series 2 as a tow truck.
Image: Artic_photo / Shutterstock.com