I'll be constructing 'replacement' bumper covers for my ML before my next outing. IMHO, the cladding on the VX was no big deal if it got a little scratched as it is typically low and relatively unseen. I made a skid plate that at least protected the middle of the front cladding and since running it, received no damage. If you saw any of the other Isuzu's in Moab, the hard core had tubing all around to prevent most all damage but I can't imagine that on a daily driver.

BTW, bumper covers were left on for my successful attempt at Lion's Back - it would make a great pic with a number of VXes stretched out across it.