Driving the Isuzu D-MAX at the PH Rallycross Series

When the advertising team of Isuzu Philippines (IPC) sent me a message inviting us to represent them in the Philippine Rallycross Series (PHRX), I just had to say yes and take the opportunity. 

After several unavoidable delays and schedule changes, there we were finally at Clark Global City in Pampanga, on March 20, 2022, for the 9th and 10th rounds of the PHRX 2021. 

Like other automotive media and influencers who also represented IPC in previous rounds, we were to use an Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 LS-E 4×4 A/T which was almost completely stock, except for a steel front overrider and aftermarket wheels in meaty all-terrain tires. Other than that, the D-MAX we had is basically showroom spec. We drove this side-by-side with another unit which had an upgraded suspension, auxiliary off-road lights, Recaro racing seats, and roll cage, driven by professional rally driver Mon Dimapilis and his daughter, Bianca.

Our first-timer team of three entered the UV and AWD race categories. The former is for pick-up trucks like the D-MAX, sport-utility vehicles like the mu-X or Montero Sport, and crossovers like the Toyota RAV4. On the other hand, the latter is for, as the name suggests, any vehicle that sends power to all four wheels.

We definitely have to praise the D-MAX as it performed flawlessly allowing me, a first-timer, to be ranked 3rd out of nine drivers in the UV category, most of whom use purpose-built rally vehicles. My total time around the course was at 4:30:61. Meanwhile, our two other team members were slightly faster than me with total lap times of 4:29.030 and 4:28.110 for the AWD category, with the latter a newbie driver.

The rally race also proved well the capability and durability of the Isuzu D-MAX as an off-road vehicle. After each race, the units are checked for any damages and both units returned to Isuzu’s facility in Sta. Rosa, Laguna without the need for any repairs, minus scratches on the rear bumper caused by our newbie driver during his last heat. Other than that, both units also proved their solidity with no unnecessary creaks and rattles in their interiors despite being tossed around on the course.

By the way, for those who need a recap, the Isuzu D-MAX we drove is powered by a 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX turbodiesel engine that produces 190 metric horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It may not be the most powerful 4×4 pick-up truck in the Philippines today, but Isuzu definitely tuned it right and rally-ready.

The best part of participating in the PHRX is not the vehicle though, but the experience. With no idea at all about rally-driving, I went in and did my best, knowing my limits. I’m definitely hoping to be given the chance to represent Isuzu Philippines once again in future races.

Photos from Isuzu Philippines