Isuzu unveiled the Dragon Max, a retro-inspired concept car at the recent 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) in Thailand, proving that old-school charm still has a place in the modern automotive world.
To create the Dragon Max, Isuzu resurrected a beloved late-’80s model with more than just a facelift. Specifically, the Dragon Max is an impressive upgrade of the 1988 Isuzu TFR mid-size pickup truck.
The Dragon Max is born from the 1988 Isuzu TFR pickup.
1988 was the Year of the Dragon according to East Asian culture. Additionally, in the Thai market, Dragon was the local nickname for the Isuzu TFR. Hence, Isuzu named their new concept car the Dragon Max.
First introduced in 1988, the TFR continued its production run until 2002 before being replaced by the first-generation Isuzu D-Max. Globally, this pickup truck had various names depending on the region, such as Faster, Rodeo, Pickup, or Invader. It was also sold under different brands, including Honda, Opel, Vauxhall, Holden, and Chevrolet.
The Isuzu Dragon Max combines upgraded design elements with a new turbocharged diesel engine and a modern interior, giving new life to an old platform. This unique concept vehicle retains the TFR’s body but updates its looks with modern touches like new LED headlights and taillights, accompanied by smoked lenses, while the grille integrates hidden LED lights. The exterior’s matte paint job gives it a futuristic look, as if it’s from the year 2025. Adding to the sporty aesthetic are the rear spoiler, 17-inch black wheels, and a lowered suspension setup.
Isuzu Dragon Max from the front.
Rear design of the vehicle.
The 17-inch black wheels add a robust and classic touch.
The Isuzu Dragon Max sports a lowered stance reminiscent of lowrider cars.
This approach isn’t too dissimilar from the formula Hyundai applied to their Heritage Series Grandeur concept car. Both blend modern technology and styling with a familiar design.
Similar to the exterior, the interior of the Dragon Max has been meticulously revamped. Most of the interior plastic trim has been replaced with premium and sportier Alcantara material. Carbon fiber accents and premium leather-clad seats further elevate the luxurious feel.
The Dragon Max’s cockpit exudes a modern and sporty vibe.
The Isuzu Dragon Max features a large vertical touchscreen and Alcantara trim.
The concept car boasts sporty seats with premium upholstery.
Since the Dragon Max is based on the extended-cab version of the Isuzu TFR, there’s a bit of extra space behind the front seats. Additionally, the spacious truck bed provides ample room for hauling gear, a favorite feature among classic pickup enthusiasts.
However, the most impressive aspect of the Isuzu Dragon Max is its engine. The concept car is powered by Isuzu’s new 2.2L 4-cylinder MaxForce turbocharged diesel engine, which is also found in the latest Isuzu D-Max and mu-X. This engine has been tuned to produce a maximum output of 217 horsepower and a peak torque of 550 Nm. Compared to the D-Max and mu-X, the Dragon Max’s engine delivers an additional 57 horsepower and 150 Nm, and it doubles the output of the original TFR. The power is sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, befitting a vehicle that is both a time machine and a showcase of modern technology.
The Dragon Max shares its engine with the D-Max and mu-X but with a significant power boost.
The Dragon Max quickly became a highlight of this year’s BIMS, attracting the attention of numerous visitors. Unfortunately, Isuzu has not yet announced plans to put the Dragon Max into commercial production.
