Bangkok 2025: 220 HP Isuzu TFR-based Dragon Max concept looks badass

Remember when Isuzu teased the Dragon Max concept last week? Based on a classic Isuzu TFR pickup, the Dragon Max Concept combines old-school looks with modern turbo-diesel technology. At the time, Isuzu only revealed teaser images of the concept vehicle.

Fortunately, a week has already passed and Isuzu has revealed the TFR-based Dragon Max concept in full, and boy do we like what we see.

Using a 1988 Isuzu TFR Space Cab as a base, the concept is painted in what looks to be a matte gray finish and sits low to the ground like a drag diesel pickup truck. The old school headlights and taillights have been replaced with LED units which make for a cleaner and more futuristic appearance. It also comes with black alloy wheels wrapped in low-profile tires, a tailgate spoiler, LED daytime running lights, and gas struts to keep the hood open.

Hop inside and the Dragon Max concept combines the old and the new. The tablet-inspired touchscreen, the digital instrument panel, and the modern gear selector highlight its modern character. However, Isuzu also decided to keep some of the classic elements inside the Dragon Max like the old-school HVAC controls and the buttons on the gauge cluster which can activate the wiper blades and the headlights. Isuzu could have gone for a completely modern interior but it's nice to see that the automaker kept those in the Dragon Max Concept.

Other features present inside the Dragon Max include Alcantara trim throughout the interior, faux carbon fiber accents, leather-suede-wrapped seats and steering wheel, push-button start, and contrast stitching throughout the cabin.

Under the hood is a 2.2L turbo-diesel engine dubbed MaxForce. It replaces the original 2.5L 4JA1 diesel engine that only made 87 PS and 175 Nm of torque. In the Dragon Max concept, the engine makes a healthy 220 PS and 550 Nm of pull which is a massive upgrade compared to the stock figures at 163 PS and 400 Nm. Power is then sent to a new 8-speed automatic gearbox that drives the rear wheels.

While we can't expect Isuzu to make the Dragon Max Concept a production vehicle, its design and power output mean Isuzu expects the 2.2L MaxForce turbo-diesel to be a favorite among enthusiasts who like to modify and boost turbo-diesel engines. Combined with its retro-inspired design, the Dragon Max concept may also inspire D-Max owners to dress up their pickup trucks.