ISUZU D-MAX V-CROSS COMMERCIAL WINS BIG!

Isuzu UK is proud to announce that the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Commercial has been named Best Work Pick-up at the inaugural Van Reviewer Awards 2026, reinforcing its position as one of the most capable and commercially focused pick-ups on the UK market.

Judged by the editorial team at vanreviewer.co.uk, the award recognises vehicles that deliver genuine real-world value to working professionals. The D-Max V-Cross Commercial was selected for its clear commercial intent, robust capability and financial practicality for customers following recent double cab pick-up tax legislation changes.

Specifically engineered for SMEs, farmers, tradespeople and construction professionals, D-Max V-Cross Commercial is based on Isuzu’s flagship V-Cross model and professionally converted into a permanent two-seat commercial vehicle. The rear passenger area has been re-engineered into a secure internal load space, ensuring long-term compliance and reinforcing its status as a serious work tool.

The model retains core pick-up strengths, including a 1-tonne payload, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, four-wheel drive, Rough Terrain Mode and a rear differential lock, while also delivering premium comfort and technology for everyday working life.

George Barrow, Editor at vanreviewer.co.uk, commented: “Work-focused pick-ups need to be tough, practical and genuinely capable on the job, but they also need to make financial sense. The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Commercial shows exactly how to balance those demands. Built with real commercial intent by navigating last year’s double cab pick-up truck tax changes, it combines serious payload and towing capacity with even more practicality from a secure loadspace in place of the second row of seats. Isuzu UK has seen a challenge and boldly stepped up to the task of making the D-Max Commercial a must-have pick-up for anyone who is serious about using their pick-ups for work.

“Isuzu’s quick response to the government’s tax changes for pick-up trucks has led them to produce a superb work-focused truck. What stands out about the D-Max Commercial is how honest it feels. The V-Cross trim is exactly what pick-up truck customers have come to expect, and there’s nothing overcomplicated about it. The workmanship of the conversion is top-notch, and tax rules aside, for those who don’t need a second row of seats, it’s an absolute no-brainer. The D-Max Commercial is built to be a tough, honest pick-up, and it’s a job that it does extremely well.”

Alan Able, Managing Director at Isuzu UK, added: “We’re delighted to see the D-Max V-Cross Commercial recognised as Best Work Pick-up at the first Van Reviewer Awards. This award is particularly meaningful because it reflects exactly what we set out to achieve: listening to our customers and delivering a pick-up that is genuinely fit for purpose, fully compliant and built with real commercial intent. The V-Cross Commercial proves that businesses no longer have to choose between capability, comfort and tax efficiency. They can have all three in one vehicle.”

The Van Reviewer accolade adds to the already successful start to the year for Isuzu UK. In 2026, the Isuzu D-Max has also been awarded Pick-up Towcar of the Year by the Caravan and Motorhome Club Awards and Pick-up of the Year by Company Car & Van, while Isuzu’s electrification journey has been recognised with a “One to Watch” award for the upcoming Isuzu D-Max EV from What Van?.

The Van Reviewer Awards are a new industry initiative launched in 2026 by vanreviewer.co.uk, celebrating the best vans and pick-ups on sale in the UK. Judged by experts with a strong focus on real-world usability, value and ownership experience, the awards aim to highlight vehicles that truly deliver for businesses. More information about the awards can be found at www.vanreviewer.co.uk/awards.

Isuzu UK is proud to announce that the Isuzu D-Max has once again been crowned ‘Pick-up of the Year’ in the Company Car & Van Awards 2026, marking an extraordinary fifth consecutive victory for the brand’s award-winning workhorse.

Celebrated for its uncompromising capability, broad range of specifications and body styles, and renowned reliability, the D-Max continues to impress industry experts and customers alike. This latest accolade adds to an already outstanding year for Isuzu, with the brand collecting a host of major industry honours across multiple sectors.

Andrew Walker, Editor and Publisher at Company Car & Van, praised the D-Max’s consistency and customer appeal, commenting: “When a pick-up wins an award five years in a row, it must be doing something right, and the D-Max certainly does. It’s available in a myriad of conversions and comes as a single, extended or double cab model to suit all customer needs. An all-new Commercial version ticks the VAT box, and an electric D-Max arrives shortly. Built to do the rough stuff whilst also tackling the urban jungle. Our Pick-Up of the Year 2026 is the Isuzu D-Max.”

The D-Max’s fifth straight Pick-up of the Year award joins an impressive list of achievements in 2025/26, reaffirming its position as one of the most decorated pick-ups in the UK market. This year alone, the D-Max has been recognised as Pick-up Towcar of the Year by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, awarded Best Diesel Pick-up by Diesel & Eco Car, and celebrated with three major honours from Overlander 4×4 Magazine, namely, Best Back-up, Best Range, and the Sustainability Award, all contributing to a growing collection of industry accolades that highlight the vehicle’s exceptional performance, durability, and broad appeal across both commercial and lifestyle sectors.

Anticipation is building ahead of the arrival of The New Isuzu D-Max EV, launching in early 2026. Despite not yet being on sale, the model has already secured its first major honour, winning the ‘One to Watch’ title at the What Van? Awards 2026.

The D-Max EV represents the next chapter in Isuzu’s evolution, delivering zero-emission capability while retaining the rugged practicality and versatility that define the D-Max family.

Alan Able, Managing Director at Isuzu UK, expressed pride in the brand’s successive achievements: “Securing the Pick-up of the Year title for the fifth year in a row is an exceptional milestone and a testament to the strength, reliability and versatility that the D-Max delivers to our customers every day. This year’s extensive list of awards demonstrates that our products continue to set benchmarks across multiple categories. With the highly anticipated D-Max EV, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in Isuzu UK history.”

Premium Comfort Meets Commercial Capability

Hunt Forest Group is excited to share the launch of the New Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Commercial – a robust and refined pick-up engineered specifically for the commercial sector. Designed for SMEs, farmers, tradespeople, and construction professionals, this new model combines the premium features of the flagship V-Cross with full commercial compliance and long-term tax efficiency.

Built for Business

The V-Cross Commercial is purpose-built for professional use. Based on the award-winning V-Cross Double Cab, it has been expertly converted into a two-seater model with a permanently adapted rear passenger space, creating a secure load zone that cannot be reverted to passenger configuration.

Standard commercial-ready features include:

• Lightweight commercial canopy
• Tow bar with towing electrics
• Load bed liner
• Rear passenger door window tints
• Protective seat covers
• Distinctive “Commercial” badging

Performance You Can Rely On

With a 1-tonne payload, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and full four-wheel drive, the V-Cross Commercial is ready for demanding tasks across farms, worksites, and rural terrain. It also features Rough Terrain Mode and a rear differential lock for enhanced off-road control.

Tax-Efficient and Legislation-Ready

This model retains full commercial vehicle tax status, offering:

• VAT reclaimable for eligible businesses
• Fixed road tax of £345
• £4,020 Benefit in Kind for the 2025/26 tax year
• Qualification for Capital Allowances under Plant & Machinery

These benefits are especially valuable for SMEs and self-employed professionals navigating the April 2025 changes to double and extended cab pick-up classifications.

Premium Features for Everyday Driving

Built on Isuzu’s highest trim level, the V-Cross Commercial ensures comfort and convenience with:

• Leather upholstery trim*
• Dual-zone climate control
• Wireless 9” infotainment system with Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™
• 7” Multi-Information Display
• USB-C ports
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Jam Assist

Ownership Confidence

Every V-Cross Commercial comes with:

• 5-year/125,000-mile warranty
• 5 years UK & European roadside assistance
• Kerb weight under 2,040kg, qualifying for passenger car speed limits

Alan Able, Managing Director at Isuzu UK, commented:

Model Overview

Available Colours:
Splash White (Solid), Mercury Silver (Metallic), Obsidian Grey (MICA), Onyx Black (MICA), Spinel Red (MICA), Biarritz Blue (Metallic), Sienna Orange (MICA), Dolomite White (PEARL)

Key Features:
Commercial canopy, tow bar with electrics, load bed liner, tinted rear windows, seat covers, 9” infotainment, 7” driver display, heated seats, Bi-LED headlights, leather upholstery*, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, reversing camera, rear diff lock, Rough Terrain Mode, 8-speaker sound system.

*Leather and other materials. Additional £720 (inc. VAT) applies for special paint finishes.

Availability

The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Commercial is available to order now, with customer deliveries beginning November 2025 through Hunt Forest Group and Isuzu dealers across the UK and Northern Ireland.

August 2025 – Isuzu UK has launched a powerful new finance campaign to support customers looking to purchase the award-winning Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Automatic, including the striking V-Cross Steel edition. Just in time for the September new plate rush, this limited-time offer delivers flexible and affordable finance options tailored to suit a wide range of customer needs.

0% APR Finance Now Available

From 1st August 2025, Isuzu customers can take advantage of the following finance offers:

• 0% APR Hire Purchase over 24 months with a minimum 50% deposit

• 3.9% APR Hire Purchase over 24 months with just a 10% minimum deposit

• 8.9% APR HP & PCP Finance with terms up to 60 months and a £2,000 customer deposit contribution

These finance options offer customers greater choice and affordability, whether they prefer a shorter-term deal with zero interest or a longer-term option with lower upfront costs.

Affinity Member Exclusive Benefits

In a first for Isuzu, this campaign can now be combined with Affinity Partnership discounts — meaning eligible members of farming, countryside, and shooting associations can stack their existing discounts alongside these finance offers. It’s an unbeatable combination of value for loyal customers.

Flexible Leasing Option Also Available

For those preferring to lease, the Contract Hire option offers even more flexibility — with monthly payments from just £389 + VAT on the V-Cross Automatic. This is a great route for business users or customers looking for lower commitment and peace of mind.

Offer Ends 30th September

All qualifying finance proposals must be accepted by 30th September 2025, with vehicles registered by 31st October 2025. Stock is available, but customers are encouraged to act quickly to secure their preferred specification.

Ready to Get Behind the Wheel?

Visit your nearest Hunt Forest Group dealership or call us to discuss your finance options and test drive the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross today.

📞 Contact: Gareth Thomas 07725 555 720
📍 Hunt Forest Group – Isuzu Sales Manager

📧 gareththomas@huntforest.com
🌐 huntforest.com

Isuzu UK marks the first anniversary of its ARB Hub dealer programme with an exclusive open day for dealers and the introduction of ARB’s most luxurious rooftop tent yet, Altitude, now available through Isuzu dealers nationwide.

On 15^th July, Isuzu hosted its inaugural ARB Hub Open Day, welcoming ARB-specialist Isuzu dealers from across the country to showcase the latest range of premium ARB accessories available for the award-winning Isuzu D-Max. Dealers were presented with exciting new offers, exclusive promotional support, and innovative point-of-sale solutions designed to enhance the customer experience for adventurers seeking to maximise their pick-up experience.

At the heart of the event was the announcement of ARB’s flagship electric Altitude rooftop tent, now available through Isuzu dealer network. The Altitude redefines camping convenience, combining automated open and close functionality at the touch of a button with panoramic 360-degree views, premium materials, and clever storage solutions. Drawing on nearly 50 years of ARB engineering expertise, the Altitude is the ultimate choice for those who want to explore off-grid in style and comfort.

Growing success of the ARB Hub programme
Launched in 2024, the ARB Hub programme has established a dedicated network of Isuzu dealers specialising in ARB’s world-class range of 4×4 and camping accessories. The programme provides participating dealers with access to exclusive stock and priority ordering, tailored point-of-sale kits, seasonal promotions, bespoke showroom displays, training sessions, and an annual Open Day supported directly by ARB staff.

Customers visiting an ARB Hub dealer can expect expert advice, hands-on experience with ARB products, and the ability to equip their Isuzu D-Max with everything from roof tents and camping accessories to recovery gear and storage systems, all backed by ARB’s renowned quality and Isuzu’s trusted dealer network.

Exclusive dealer promotions and training
To help dealers further grow accessory sales, Isuzu UK unveiled new promotions, including:

• Showroom Offer: Spend £5,000 on ARB accessories and receive a complimentary retail gondola display (worth £350+).
• End of Summer Promo: Spend £1,000+ to receive free ARB Basecamp chairs or purchase an Esperance 2 rooftop tent and accessories for additional free camping gear.

In addition, dealers benefit from hands-on training sessions from ARB specialists, with modules covering roof tents, camping accessories, recovery equipment, drawer systems, and more, as well as webinars on product positioning and sales techniques.

Speaking at the ARB Hub Open Day, Dan Wallis, ARB UK Sales Manager, commented: “It’s fantastic to see the Isuzu ARB Hub network grow so successfully in its first year. The programme has enabled dealers to create exciting lifestyle displays, offer specialist knowledge, and give customers more ways to enjoy the great outdoors. The launch of the Altitude rooftop tent is a perfect example of how ARB continues to innovate and deliver products that exceed expectations.”

Darren James, Isuzu UK Group Resources Director, added: “The ARB Hub programme represents an important step in Isuzu’s journey into the lifestyle market, enabling us to support our dealers with premium products, training, and promotional tools. One year on, it’s clear this partnership is delivering real value for dealers and customers alike, and with innovations like the Altitude rooftop tent, the future looks very exciting.”

Following its world-first unveiling at the Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham, Isuzu UK has officially announced the pricing for The New Isuzu D-Max EV, the first fully electric pick-up in Europe to offer a 1-tonne payload, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and full-time 4WD.

The production-ready model will launch with two premium trim levels based on the brand’s best-selling specifications, DL40 and V-Cross, featuring a dual-motor system, 66.9 kWh battery, and the same no-compromise durability that defines Isuzu D-Max.

Isuzu has also confirmed the official naming for the electric variants of its popular pick-up models in the UK. The previously referred to DL40-equivalent and V-Cross-equivalent trim levels will now be known as D-Max eDL40 and D-Max eV-Cross, respectively. This naming convention aligns with the existing diesel-powered range, reflecting the fact that the EV versions retain the same core capability, premium features, and rugged DNA as the internal combustion engine D-Max DL40 and V-Cross models, now with the added benefits of electric power.

The New Isuzu D-Max EV will be offered in a selection of colours. eDL40 models will be available in Splash White as standard, with optional premium finishes including Mercury Silver Metallic, Obsidian Grey MICA, Onyx Black MICA, and Biarritz Blue Metallic. The range-topping V-Cross model shares the same palette but also gains access to an exclusive Dolomite White Pearl finish. These carefully curated colour choices complement the vehicle’s bold stance with EV-specific blue design elements and D-Max EV badging.

D-Max EV Range at Glance

All prices are exclusive of VAT and additional charges. There is no charge for Splash White colour. For special paint finishes, an additional £600 (excluding VAT) applies. *Leather and other materials.

Neil Scott, National Sales Manager at Isuzu UK, commented: “We’re incredibly proud to launch the D-Max EV at a competitive price point for a fully electric, fully capable, and work-ready 4×4 pick-up. There’s nothing else like it in the market today that combines zero-emission driving with full commercial capability. With high levels of equipment as standard, refined ride quality, and Isuzu’s legendary toughness, the D-Max EV offers true value and a sustainable solution for fleets and professionals alike.”

Pre-sales will begin later in 2025, with first UK arrivals in February 2026. Customer deliveries are scheduled to follow in March 2026. Right-hand drive demonstrator vehicles will be made available to fleet customers in advance.

For full specifications, model details, and the latest updates on the New Isuzu D-Max EV, visit: www.isuzu.co.uk/electric-pickup.

Isuzu UK is proud to announce that The New Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, unveiled earlier this year at the 2025 Commercial Vehicle Show, is now officially on sale from 1^st July 2025.

Available exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission and in double cab configuration, the AT35 continues to push boundaries in both form and function. Priced at £57,005 CVOTR, it is available through selected Isuzu Arctic Trucks dealers nationwide.

Developed in collaboration with Arctic Trucks, globally recognised for building vehicles engineered to excel in the planet’s harshest environments, the AT35 offers exceptional off-road performance, serious commercial capability, and advanced safety technology — all in a bold, unmistakable design. Based on the latest Isuzu D-Max model, it also brings a broad number of improvements across all areas, further improving the driving experience.

Ready to Reign All Terrain
Powered by Isuzu’s proven 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 360 Nm of torque, the AT35 is equipped with a host of performance features including:

• 35” BFGoodrich KO2 All-Terrain Tyres
• Arctic Trucks Bilstein Performance Suspension System
• Rough Terrain Mode
• Shift-on-the-fly 4WD system
• Rear Differential Lock
• 3.5-tonne towing capacity and over 1-tonne payload

Beyond its impressive stats, the AT35 features over 60 hours of expert re-engineering by Arctic Trucks’ off-road mobility specialists. This includes extensive adjustments, strengthening and reprofiling of the chassis, inner arches, and bodywork to optimise durability, capability, and clearance, all while retaining commercial credentials such as full payload and towing capacity.

Its optimised Arctic Trucks Bilstein performance suspension system incorporates front springs and dampers, rear dampers, and body lift for a total elevation gain of +40mm. This advanced suspension setup delivers excellent control, comfort, and mobility across all terrains and conditions.

This capability is matched by a low centre of gravity, aided by the wider track and increased tyre width. The result is a vehicle as confident on rocky trails as it is hauling tools or towing trailers across worksites and winding rural roads.

Unmistakable Presence
Distinctive and aggressively styled, the new model stands taller, wider and more purposeful than ever before.

• Custom Arctic Trucks Bilstein suspension increases ground clearance
• Approach, breakover and ramp angles of 35°, 34° and 29° respectively
• Massive 35” tyres and unmistakeable widebody design
• Durable, extended-profile side steps and roof rails

Widened, body-colour Arctic Trucks fender flares with recessed AT tyre pressure details increase clearance and visual impact while helping protect the vehicle’s bodywork from debris and harsh environments. These are matched by strengthened, oversized Arctic Trucks mud guards and robust extended-profile side steps.

The vehicle also includes matte black 17×10-inch Arctic Trucks alloy wheels, a 2” rear multifunction receiver hitch (compatible with tow balls, steps, winches and gear carriers), and premium Arctic Trucks and AT35 badging and detailing on the flares, side steps, mud guards, receiver cover, and interior headrests.

Refined Interior
Inside, the AT35 blends ruggedness with refinement. Drivers and passengers are treated to leather upholstery, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control, ensuring comfort in every condition. As part of the bespoke Arctic Trucks build process, each vehicle also receives Arctic Trucks premium floor mats, locking wheel nuts, a torque wrench, a dedicated D-Max AT35 user manual, and a certificate of conformity.

Technology is front and centre, featuring an updated 9” touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, as well as an 8-speaker premium sound system, wireless phone charging, USB C ports, and a 7” digital driver information display.

Safer than Ever
As with all models in the new D-Max range, the AT35 includes Isuzu’s comprehensive ADAS safety suite, now also featuring:

• Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
• Rear Cross Traffic Braking
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Attention Assist
• Turn Assist and E-Call functionality

These features make the AT35 a capable companion both for professional use and adventurous exploration.

Model at Glance

The price is exclusive of VAT and additional charges. There is no charge for Splash White colour. For special paint finishes, an additional £600 (excluding VAT) applies. *Leather and other materials.

Alan Able, Managing Director at Isuzu UK, said: “The New AT35 adds an exciting and dynamic edge to the Isuzu D-Max range. It combines dramatic visual presence with genuine utility, making it ideal for both specialist commercial operators and lifestyle buyers who need more than just a standard pick-up. It shows how versatile a working vehicle can be without compromising comfort or innovation.”

Peter Smith, Managing Director at Arctic Trucks UK, added: “The New Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 represents the evolution of everything we’ve learned over more than three decades of engineering world-class off-road vehicles. It’s a bold and capable pick-up that stands ready for anything, from remote terrain to demanding job sites. Together with Isuzu, we’ve created a vehicle that delivers genuine off-road ability without compromising comfort, safety or commercial versatility.”

Availability
The New Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is available exclusively as a double cab automatic model, in a choice of eight striking colours. It is available to purchase now at £57,005 CVOTR. Importantly, the AT35 retains full commercial vehicle status for both VAT and Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) purposes. This means that business users can reclaim 100% of the VAT, and road tax (VED) is fixed at just £345 per year, offering significant running cost advantages compared to non-commercial vehicles in the same category.

For more information give us a call today on o7725 555 720 or visit us in branch!

A huge congratulations to Hunt Forest Group’s very own Stefan for his exceptional performance at the recent Isuzu I-1GP Global Technical Skills Competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand. After winning the UK national title, Stefan earned the chance to represent Team GB on the international stage, an opportunity he described as “overwhelming but absolutely incredible.”

We caught up with Stefan following his return to hear more about the experience, how the competition unfolded, and what it meant to be part of such a prestigious global event.

From UK Champion to Global Competitor

Earlier this year, Stefan was crowned the winner of the Isuzu UK Technical Skills event, securing his place on a plane to Thailand to compete against 17 other teams from around the world.

“I was completely shocked,” Stefan said. “I’ve only been working with Isuzu’s for about 18 months, so I went into the competition quite casually. To be named number one in the UK, especially against technicians with years, even decades of experience, was surreal.”

Facing the Challenge—Together

At the I-1GP, Stefan was paired with a fellow UK technician he hadn’t worked with before and was coached by a new mentor. That dynamic brought its own learning curve.

“We’re so used to working independently. Suddenly, everything had to be tackled as a team,” he explained. “We’d had some time to train together at Isuzu’s IT HQ beforehand, which helped, but it was still a big adjustment. We tripped over each other a few times, literally and figuratively, but chatting to the other teams, it seemed like we weren’t the only ones!”

Competing Under Pressure

The competition tested both theoretical knowledge and practical skills across electrical systems, component identification, gearbox diagnostics, and more.

“There was an hour-long written test, and then we had 45 minutes to diagnose and repair faults under real-world conditions,” Stefan said. “And the pressure was intense—spectators cheering, Union Jacks waving, the whole setup was amazing, but that fanfare definitely added to the stress.”

Despite the high-stakes environment, Stefan and his teammate placed 10th overall out of 18 global teams, a result he’s “genuinely proud of.”

Preparation and Perspective

Stefan credits part of his success to the training and support he received at Hunt Forest Group. “My Service manager, Sam gave me time to do extra online training, which made a real difference, especially brushing up on wiring diagrams and system navigation,” he said.

The competition also gave him a new outlook on fault diagnosis: “I learned alternative methods I hadn’t considered before. I’ve already started applying some of those techniques back at work.”

A Taste of Thailand

Aside from the competition, Stefan experienced Thai culture for the first time—heat, humidity, and spicy food included.

“The heat hit me like a wall when we left the airport, my glasses fogged up straight away,” he laughed. “We didn’t get loads of time to explore, but we tried some local food and got a glimpse of the culture. Everyone was so friendly, it really stood out.”

What’s Next?

Now back in the UK, Stefan is still riding high from the experience and is already looking ahead.

“I’d absolutely recommend it to any technician. It felt like the Olympics of our trade. I’d love the chance to go again, and I’ll be aiming to keep hold of that UK champion title!”