When old classics are revived, things get exciting – especially when Isuzu has a hand in it.
With this unique Dragon Max The Japanese manufacturer shows how to bring a pickup from the 80s into the here and now without losing its legendary charm.
Back to the future with style
The Isuzu Dragon Max is a real one Restomod and built on the basis of a 1988 Isuzu TFR, a mid-size pickup truck that was sold worldwide under various names. It is known as Faster, Rodeo, Pickup, Invader, Honda Ippon – and that’s not all.
Also known as Opel, Vauxhall, Holden and even Chevrolet The loading master was on the move. And in Thailand he was always known by the nickname "Dragon" known – hence the name of the current concept vehicle.
Design with 80s vibes and 2025 touch
The Dragon Max remains true to the basic design of the TFR, but its appearance is quite similar: tinted LED headlights and taillights, a discreetly illuminated grille, a matt finish and a small one rear spoiler provide a modern look. The 17-inch aluminum in black and low chassis are further details.
Since then, however, it's been more of a lowrider than a workhorse. Even the interior has been given a major makeover – literally. Alcantara instead of hard plastic, Carbon details, Leather inserts on the seats – everything looks high-quality and extremely stylish. And thanks to the Space Cab-Basic There's even a bit of space behind the front seats for small items. And further back, there's the cargo area for everything retro fans need to haul around.
New engine, new announcement
Under the hood of the conversion is Isuzu’s modern 2,2 liter MaxForce turbodiesel, as can be seen in the current D-Max and in the MU-X In the Dragon Max version, the unit was even 220 PS and 550 Nm Torque increased – a plus of 57 PS and 150 Nm compared to the series. For comparison: That's more than twice as much as the original.
The power goes to the rear wheels, of course, via a 8-speed automatic, which perfectly matches the modern concept. The whole thing was Bangkok International Motor Show and was well received. No wonder, because it combines retro with ultra-modern Technology, and quite confidently.
More than a show car
Of course, the Dragon Max is just a Single copyBut the concept shows how cool a modern Classics can look like if you do it right.
Similar to Hyundai With its heritage concepts, Isuzu also shows that Past and future can go hand in hand – provided you put a little love into it. All further information can be found in the video – be sure to watch it! Image and video credits/source: Isuzu Thailand | This content was created using AI and reviewed by an editor.
