The successor of old school pickup, the Isuzu Faster, the D-Max has been making quite the stir since it began rolling off the production line in 2002. While the second- and third-generation models are more recent, it is the first-generation Rodeo that made the biggest splash. The RA had already won a legion of fans internationally by the time it arrived on UK shores as RAC describes:
“Badged as the Isuzu D-MAX, Isuzu LB, Chevrolet Colorado, Holden Colorado and Holden Rodeo amongst other things, the Isuzu Rodeo that launched in the UK in 2002 was also sold in 130 other markets around the world. The cars that made it to these shores were built in Thailand where they were selling 10,000 a month for the initial period when it went on sale.”
The Isuzu D-Max 2002-12 remains a firm favourite, especially amongst off-road enthusiasts, with its performance, styling and great value for money particularly revered. Ready to make your Rodeo even more off-road capable? You’ll want to read all about the off-road upgrades below…
1. The performance booster
You don’t have to opt for expensive or invasive upgrades to receive the performance boost you crave. RC owners will notice improvements right away by adding the evcX Bluetooth Throttle Controller to their rig.
With eight driving modes to choose from and 32 levels of adjustment to explore, there’s a lot that can be customised at the touch of a button. This award winning throttle controller allows you to fine tune your setup, dampening and sharpening your throttle curve via app or display. The result is better throttle response, limited lag, improved acceleration and the feeling of more power, all of which will boost your driving experience when travelling on or off the road.
2. The recovery must-have
There is a long list of recovery essentials every 4×4 should have, but what if we told you you could have them all in one handy kit?
The ARB Premium Recovery Kit Series II features everything you need for off-road travel and self-rescue in your Rodeo. This includes a 17,500lb snatch strap, 26,500lb x 10′ tree trunk protector, 9,900lb x 66’ winch extension strap, recovery damper, leather recovery gloves, two 10,640lb 3/4” pin d-shackle, and 20,000lb snatch block – all conveniently packaged in a large recovery bag.
3. The serious off-road essential
For off-road enthusiasts that take on the toughest trails, there’s one essential upgrade that should be on your hitlist. Our AVM Free Wheeling Hubs are made with serious off-roading in mind, and they’ve been custom designed for the Isuzu D-Max 2002-12.
Reduce driveline wear, minimise rolling resistance, and enjoy simple fitting and operation with the original and best free wheeling hubs on the market.
4. The suspension saviour
OE suspension leaves a lot to be desired for off-roaders. Make sure your suspension system matches your ambitions by upgrading with this custom Terrain Tamer Suspension Kit.
As well as providing one of the highest quality and most durable suspension upgrades on the market, the fully integrated system can be further tailored to your unique requirements. In fact, Terrain Tamer engineers will select and assemble a kit that complements your specific vehicle build and usage patterns, with no extra charge for options such as heavy duty springs or firmer valved shock absorbers
5. The protection you need
Every off-road journey you make will take its toll on your RC. Don’t let the roughest, toughest trail make mincemeat of your vehicle by arming it with the best underbody protection around. The ARB Underbody Protection Kit has been meticulously crafted using pressed, folded and laser cut steel to put 3mm of solid protection between you and the trail.
Thanks to its vehicle-specific design, it can be securely bolted to your Rodeo’s chassis with ease, minimising the risk of damage to the vital components that call your vehicle’s underside home whilst maintaining an outstanding level of structural integrity.
You can shop these off-road upgrades and much more by browsing our Isuzu D-Max (2002-12) upgrades today.