Isuzu Dragon Max - the coolest classic pickup truck ever seen

At the Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) 2025 recently held in Thailand, Isuzu introduced a retro-inspired concept car called

Isuzu Dragon Max classic pickup

This car proves that old beauty still has a place in the modern automobile world .

To launch the Isuzu Dragon Max pickup truck , Isuzu has revived a beloved model from the late 80s with more than just a cosmetic change. Specifically, the Isuzu Dragon Max is an impressively improved version of the 1988 Isuzu TFR mid-size pickup truck.

1988 is the year of the dragon according to Eastern culture. In addition, in the Thai market, Dragon is the local nickname of Isuzu TFR. Therefore, Isuzu named its new concept car Dragon Max.

First introduced in 1988, the TFR continued to exist until 2002 before being replaced by the first-generation Isuzu D-Max. Globally, the pickup truck has been known by various names, depending on the region, such as Faster, Rodeo, Pickup, or Invader. It has also been sold under brands such as Honda, Opel, Vauxhall, Holden, and Chevrolet.

The Isuzu Dragon Max combines an updated design with a new turbocharged diesel engine and a modern interior, giving a second life to an old platform. The one-off concept retains the TFR's body but updates its appearance with modern details such as new LED headlights and taillights, which are finished in a smoked finish while the grille incorporates hidden LEDs.

The matte exterior paint makes the car look like it's from 2025. Next up is the sporty rear spoiler, 17-inch black wheels combined with a tuned suspension that lowers the car's chassis.

The approach isn’t too dissimilar to the formula Hyundai used for its Heritage Series Grandeur concept car, which combined modern technology and style with a familiar design.

Similar to the exterior, the Dragon Max interior has also been meticulously redone. Most of the interior plastic details have been replaced with a more premium and sporty Alcantara material. In addition, there are carbon details and high-quality leather seats, giving a more luxurious feel.

Since this concept is based on the extended cab version of the Isuzu TFR, there is a bit of space behind the front seats. Along with that is a spacious trunk to carry the items that classic pickup truck enthusiasts love. However, the most impressive thing about the Isuzu Dragon Max is the engine.

The "heart" of the Dragon Max is Isuzu's new 2.2L, turbocharged, 4-cylinder MaxForce engine. This is the same engine that is equipped on the new Isuzu D-Max and mu-X. This engine has been tuned to produce a maximum capacity of 217 horsepower and a maximum torque of 550 Nm.

Compared to the Isuzu D-Max and mu-X, the engine is 57 horsepower and 150 Nm more powerful, and double the original TFR.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, befitting a car that is both a time machine and a technological showcase. The new Isuzu Dragon Max quickly attracted the attention of many visitors at this year's BIMS Exhibition.

Unfortunately, Isuzu has not yet announced plans to put this Dragon Max concept pickup truck into commercial production.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/isuzu-dragon-max-xe-ban-tai-co-dien-ngau-loi-nhat-tung-thay-post267004.html