Nearly every automaker with a pickup has declared plans to build a high-performance or off-road-oriented model in their respective lineups. Ford has the Ranger Raptor, Toyota has the Hilux GR-S and Mitsubishi would like to build a real Triton Ralliart.

But what about Isuzu D-Max? There are several special edition models that pack more kit than the top-spec LS-E variant, and the new Blade edition in Australia is no exception.

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PHOTO BY Isuzu Australia

The Blade may be closest we’ll get to a ‘hot’ Isuzu D-Max. While it doesn’t have any extra power under the hood, it has several off-road-oriented benefits that will appeal to most trail hunters.

On the outside, the Blade differentiates itself from the standard D-Max variants by having a single grilleas well as a special combination of wheels and tires. He continues 17-inch fluoformed alloy wheels which are lighter and stronger than standard rims. He is then shod Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tires with triple-thickness sidewalls for puncture resistance.

PHOTO BY Isuzu Australia

Also included in the blade protective plates for the protection of the base and recovery points at the front and rear. A graphics package is standard, with a set of thicker fender flares. The assembled bed metal sports bar sums up all the upgrades of this special D-Max.

PHOTO BY Isuzu Australia

The interior also benefits from some improvements. Head restraints and floor mats are Blade embroideryas well as Blade protection plates for paint protection. As it is based on the top model, it gets all the standard goodies such as the largest possible infotainment screen, new digital instrument cluster and leather trim.

PHOTO BY Isuzu Australia

But the heart of the changes can be seen under the chassis. He uses 35mm MTV twin-tube shock absorbers and a new spring package. Made by Walkinshaw EngineeringIsuzu claims it improves comfort and handling on various terrains. At the same time, the suspension articulation has been improved, which is important off-road.

Other off-road features? Field command allows you to switch to 4-wheel drive mode on the fly up to 100 km/h. Rough terrain mode serves as the D-Max’s terrain management system, and the rear differential lock is there when things get really tough. Additionally, the engine used in this version is the familiar 3.0 liter turbodiesel with 188 hp and 450 Nm. The only transmission choice is a six-speed automatic.

PHOTO BY Isuzu Australia

This is all good, but there is some bad news. At first glance, the Isuzu D-Max Blade appears to be a Exclusive to the Australian market. That said, Isuzu could take some notes from this special edition model to build an even more rugged pickup for other markets.

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