The Isuzu Thread

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Isuzu invests R1.2 billion to build new bakkie in South Africa

Exactly a month after pulling the covers off its new-generation D-Max bakkie, Isuzu has confirmed that the new model will be built in South Africa as part of a planned R1.2 billion investment.

This effectively secures the future of the Port Elizabeth based plant for at least another model generation. The facility was was purchased from General Motors when the latter divested in 2018, saving around 1000 direct jobs.

Isuzu also plans to increase its annual bakkie production to around 29 000 units a year, and although most of the units produced will be for the South African market, the company is aiming to grow its export volumes through its Sub-Saharan Africa growth strategy. Its biggest markets in Sub-Saharan Africa currently include Kenya, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Mauritius, Senegal, Ghana and Ivory Coast.

"The next generation bakkie will be locally engineered to meet the requirements of the South African and key Sub-Saharan Africa markets." said Isuzu SA managing director Michael Sacke.

Isuzu invests R1.2 billion to build new bakkie in South Africa

Isuzu has confirmed that its new-generation D-Max bakkie will be built in South Africa.

www.iol.co.za

 

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Isuzu promises new D-Max will be 'close to' Ranger Raptor for 'toughness'

An Isuzu official has promised even the standard version of the new D-Max will be “close to” the Ford Ranger Raptor in terms of both “toughness” and off-road ability.

Speaking to CarsGuide, Isuzu spokesperson Eiji Mitsuhashi suggested the Japanese firm’s reworked bakkie would be highly capable off the beaten track.

"This new D-Max has a 3,0-litre turbocharged engine, and [will be] close to Raptor in terms of toughness or off-road capability," Mitsuhashi told the publication.

The new-generation model – which will be built both in Thailand and here in South Africa (the latter recently being confirmed as part of a R1,2-billion investment) – is powered by a “newly developed” version of the familiar 3,0-litre turbodiesel engine, with peak outputs hiked to 140 kW (at 3 600 r/min) and 450 N.m (between 1 600 and 2 600 r/min).

It also gains an electromagnetic rear differential lock, while revised suspension and steering (with tilt and telescopic adjustment on the column) ostensibly result in improved “driving stability”.

Isuzu promises new D-Max will be 'close to' Ranger Raptor for 'toughness'... - CAR Magazine

An Isuzu official has promised even the standard version of the new D-Max will be “close to” the Ford Ranger Raptor in terms of both... Read more →

www.carmag.co.za

 

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Isuzu finally locks-up MU-X

Isuzu seven-seater is now better off-road with additional diff lock option.

To compete with Toyota’s Fortuner is virtually impossible, but Isuzu has done its MU-X no favours, by not having a rear differential lock option.

For true off-road explorers and gravel travellers, a rear differential lock is crucial. With good reason too. If you wish to launch a boat on a treacherous slipway, with a 4x2 MU-X, you’ll feel a lot more secure about doing that with a rear-locker engaged.

Although traction control systems are increasingly becoming more sophisticated and better at sensing terrain and managing wheelspin, they can still be tardy and reduce power when it is required. There are instances in highly technical off-road driving, where a locked differential cannot be beaten.

Crawling over slow, rocky terrain – or having to climb acute angle deep sand corners, are two instances where having a locked, equal, torque distribution between the rear wheels is decisive.

Isuzu finally offers diff-lock MU-X

Isuzu seven-seater is now better off-road with additional diff-lock option. To compete with Toyota’s Fortuner is virtually impossible, but Isuzu has done its MU-X no favours, by not having a rear differential lock option. For true off-road explorers and gravel travellers, a rear differential...

www.cars.co.za

 

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New D-Max and BT-50 bakkie twins 'developed solely by us', says Isuzu

An Isuzu official has suggested Mazda had no input into the development of the new D-Max bakkie, which will form the base for the as-yet-unrevealed next-generation BT-50.

Isuzu global spokesperson Eiji Mitsuhashi told CarsGuide the new D-Max was "developed solely by Isuzu".

New D-Max and BT-50 bakkie twins 'developed solely by us', says Isuzu... - CAR Magazine

An Isuzu official has suggested Mazda had no input into the development of the new D-Max bakkie, which will form the base for the as-yet-unrevealed... Read more →

www.carmag.co.za

 

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REVIEW | Isuzu D-Max X-Rider Black 4x2

In summary

When the D-Max range is replaced in the closing stages of 2020, there will be some of us who’ll miss the current generation. The realisation is there that this bakkie is in dire need of an upgrade, but despite its shortcomings, it remains one of the default options in the market. The Hilux, Ranger, and even the slow-selling Mitsubishi Triton, have upped the game, and does it leave Isuzu with plenty of work to do.

The X-Rider Black is a fine choice to close out the D-Max’s book. It has the looks, it has that Isuzu-tough aura, and it owns it position in the market as best it can.

Price: Isuzu D-Max 250 X-Rider Black D/C 4x2 – R471 300

REVIEW | Isuzu D-Max X-Rider Black 4x2 | Life

Wheels24's Charlen Raymond reviewed the Isuzu D-Max X-Rider Black on an extended test. Here are his findings following four weeks of 'ownership'.

m.wheels24.co.za

 

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TechnoBok long-term review of the X-Rider Doublecab

 

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CarsGuide review of the 2020 MU-X LS-T 4WD

 

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Isuzu South Africa starts supplying D-Max ‘knocked down’ kits to Kenya

Isuzu Motors South Africa says it has started supplying D-Max knocked-down kits for assembly purposes to its manufacturing facility in Kenya.

The Japanese firm’s local arm says it represents the “first intra-continental regional trade exchange of its kind” for Isuzu on the continent and is “aligned to its strategy” for the SA assembly plant to serve as a hub for growing its overall volumes in sub-Saharan Africa.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/indus...s-supplying-d-max-knocked-down-kits-to-kenya/

 

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Isuzu SA adds five new automatic variants to local D-Max bakkie range

Isuzu Motors South Africa has added five new automatic derivatives to its D-Max range, finally offering a self-shifting transmission with its entry-level 2,5TD engine.

The local line-up now includes the D-Max 2,5TD extended cab High-Rider AT (R403 200), the D-Max 2,5TD double-cab High-Rider AT (R435 300), the mid-spec D-Max 2,5TD double-cab LE AT (R459 000) and the D-Max 2,5TD double-cab X-Rider AT (R474 700), each fitted with a five-speed auto.

As a reminder, the Japanese firm’s 2,5-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine develops 100 kW and 320 N.m. Isuzu says the incorporation of the five-speed self-shifter into this powertrain does not impact the bakkie’s braked towing capacity, which remains 2 100 kg (just like the existing manual models).

Isuzu SA adds five new automatic variants to local D-Max bakkie range... - CAR Magazine

Isuzu Motors South Africa has added five new automatic 4×2 derivatives to its D-Max range, finally offering a self-shifting transmission with its entry-level 2,5TD engine. […]

www.carmag.co.za

 

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New Isuzu D-Max bakkie to launch in SA only in second half of 2021

Isuzu Motors South Africa has confirmed local D-Max fans will have to wait until the second half of 2021 to purchase the new-generation version of the bakkie.

The Japanese firm’s local arm made the announcement after expanding the current D-Max range with the addition of five new automatic variants. It said "upgrades and modifications" to its production plant in Port Elizabeth were underway, including the localisation of a "diverse set" of components and systems, the local sourcing of supplier and in-house tooling, and equipment and manufacturing facility modifications.

New Isuzu D-Max bakkie to launch in SA only in second half of 2021... - CAR Magazine

Isuzu Motors South Africa has confirmed local D-Max fans will have to wait until the second half of 2021 to purchase the new-generation version of the bakkie.

www.carmag.co.za

 

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What? Isuzu SA has five new auto models in its D-Max 250 range - We have pricing and specs

Isuzu South Africa has expanded its local D-Max range with the addition of a five-speed automatic gearbox. In total, five new models are added to the range to give consumers greater freedom of choice.

The lifestyle-orientated D-Max 250 X-Rider headlines the expanded range and is, for the first time, available with the automatic gearbox. Isuzu also made use of the opportunity to fit its D-Max 300 double cab Hi-Ride with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Pricing for the five automatic models ranges between R403 200 and R474 700, all comprising double and extended cabs.

All Isuzu D-Max models come standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000km/12 months.

What? Isuzu SA has five new auto models in its D-Max 250 range - We have pricing and specs | Life

Isuzu South Africa has expanded its D-Max range locally with the addition of a new gearbox.

m.wheels24.co.za

 

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Isuzu Adds Automatics To D-MAX Range

Isuzu bolstered its local D-MAX bakkie range with the addition of 5 new automatic derivatives!

Japanese LCV giant, Isuzu, has responded to the market demand for automatic transmissions by offering more choice for buyers.

"Buying trends in the bakkie segment are changing rapidly, and we have seen a major upswing in the demand for automatic gearboxes in recent years. The introduction of the 6-speed automatic transmissions in the D-MAX 3.0-Litre models in 2018 was extremely well received, and we are delighted to now offer automatic gearbox options on our popular D-MAX 250 models, from our trendy X-Rider model to the mid-level LE and the Hi-Ride which is ideally suited to our commercial vehicle customers,"says Dominic Rimmer, Senior Vice President, Technical Operations at Isuzu Motors South Africa

Isuzu D-MAX - Prices in South Africa

D-MAX 250 HO Extended Cab Hi-Ride Auto - R403 200

D-MAX 250 HO Double Cab Hi-Ride Auto - R435 300

D-MAX 250 HO Double Cab LE Auto - R459 000

D-MAX 300 Double Cab Hi Ride Auto - R464 100

D-MAX 250 HO Double Cab X-Rider Auto - R474 700

The Isuzu D-MAX is sold with a 5-year/120 000 km warranty, 5-year/90 000 km service plan, 5-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion and Roadside Assistance.

Isuzu Adds Automatics To D-Max Range

Isuzu bolstered its local D-Max bakkie range with the addition of 5 new automatic derivatives! Japanese LCV giant, Isuzu, has responded to the market demand for automatic transmissions by offering more choice for buyers. "Buying trends in the bakkie segment are changing rapidly, and we have...

www.cars.co.za

 

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Isuzu adds five new auto models to D-Max range

With bakkie buyers increasingly gravitating towards automatic gearboxes, Isuzu is upping its game with five new self-shifting D-Max derivatives.

Most of these new additions are powered by the familiar 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine, which produces 100kW and 320Nm, and the gearbox in question is Isuzu’s five-speed automatic unit.

New D-Max auto models:

D-Max 250 Extended Cab Hi-Ride auto R403 200
D-Max 250 Double Cab Hi-Ride auto R435 300
D-Max 250 Double Cab LE auto R459 000
D-Max 300 Double Cab Hi-Ride auto R464 100
D-Max 250 Double Cab X-Rider auto R474 700

All D-Max models are sold with a five-year/120 000km warranty and five-year/90 000km service plan.

Isuzu adds five new auto models to D-Max range

Isuzu is upping its automatic gearbox game with five new self-shifting D-Max derivatives, most of them 250 models.

www.iol.co.za

 

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First Drive | Isuzu D-Max 250 auto

The value equation? Toyota only has one version of its Hilux double-cab priced below R500 000 with an automatic transmission (the R479 200 2.4GD SRX). Ford? Also only has one comparable double cab Ranger, which is the 2.2 TDCi XL auto priced at R449 500.

By contrast, Isuzu has a generous spread of four D-Max 250 automatic double-cabs, priced from R435 300 to R474 700.

Need an automatic transmission and all the attributes of a bakkie as your family vehicle? Isuzu’s new D-Max 250s offers more price points and specification grades than its rivals.

First Drive | Isuzu D-Max 250 auto | News24

Isuzu has bolstered its range with five new automatic models, despite the next-generation D-Max to be built in SA at the end of 2021. Lance Branquinho takes a look at the 'new' model range.

m.wheels24.co.za

 

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The reason behind the delayed local introduction of the new Isuzu D-Max

Like the news that the next season of your favourite television series is only scheduled for 24-months’ time, fans of the evergreen Isuzu brand would have let out a collective groan with the announcement this week that the next-generation D-Max is only set to arrive in South Africa in the second half of 2021.

Unlike that television show that often struggles to live up to its hype, the all-new Isuzu looks set to improve on the aging current version in nearly every department.

Far from being delayed, however, Isuzu South Africa is instead excited that the new D-Max is being carefully readied for full production at the brand’s Struandale plant, in Port Elizabeth. This includes a R1,2-billion investment into the planning and tooling process, as well as rigorous testing of the product as it is currently leaves its Thailand-based plant in order to best “customise” the new bakkie for South African (and greater-African) conditions.

The reason behind the delayed local introduction of the new Isuzu D-Max - CAR Magazine

Like the news that the next season of your favourite television series is only scheduled for 24-months’ time, fans of the evergreen Isuzu brand would... Read more →

www.carmag.co.za

 

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DRIVEN: Isuzu D-Max 250 DC X-Rider Auto

Having used the occasion of this update to confirm the mid-2021 introduction of the all-new, locally built D-Max range, the current model stands steadfast in its contempt towards its arguably more glamorous contemporary rivals. Even in limited-edition AT35 guise, the old faithful Isuzu retains a charming been-there-done-that character that, even in its twilight years is difficult not to be drawn towards.

FAST FACTS

Model: Isuzu D-Max 250 DC X-Rider
Price: R474 700
Engine: 2,5-litre turbodiesel
Power: 100 kW @ 3 400 r/min
Torque: 320 N.m @ 1 800 - 2 800 r/min
0-100 km/h: n/a
Top Speed: n/a
Fuel Consumption: 8,10 L/100 km
CO2: n/a
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Service Plan: 5 year/90 000 km

DRIVEN: Isuzu D-Max 250 DC X-Rider Auto - CAR Magazine

FRANSCHHOEK, Western Cape – The old charmer of the modern double-cab bakkie segment, there’s a lot to be said for the reputation for rugged, established […]

www.carmag.co.za

 

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Isuzu D-Max 250 Auto (2020) Launch Review

Summary

Isuzu plans to invest more than R1.2 billion to optimise the next-generation Isuzu bakkie for the Southern African market, which includes sourcing parts locally and ensuring that the bakkie will be able to withstand harsh operating conditions. The current model has been around for a long time, but for what it lacks in the latest features and safety technologies, it makes up for in value for money.

Starting at R403 200, the Isuzu 250 D-Max automatic is priced lower than both Ford and Toyotas alternatives and also boasts one of the best warranties of any manufacturer. It's still not AS lifestyle-oriented as those two rivals, but certainly carries enough appeal to give Isuzu fans the alternative they need until the 2021 model arrives. Will it entice other bakkie owners? Yes, I think so.

Pricing:

D-Max 250 Extended cab Hi-Ride Auto R403 200
D-Max 250 Double cab Hi-Ride Auto R435 300
D-Max 250 Double cab LE Auto R459 000
D-Max 300 Double cab Hi-Ride Auto R464 100
D-Max 250 Double cab X-Rider Auto R474 700

Isuzu D-Max 250 Auto (2020) Launch Review

Yes, there is an all-new Isuzu D-Max bakkie in the pipeline, but that will only become available in South Africa in 2021. In the meantime, Isuzu SA has updated the current range by introducing automatic-transmission versions of its 250 turbodiesel derivatives. Ernest Page reports… When General...

www.cars.co.za

 

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Isuzu D-Max 2020 review: SX crew cab 4x4 off-road - CarsGuide

 

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Refreshed Isuzu MU-X on cards for SA?

Isuzu Motors SA recently introduced the option of a diff-lock on its MU-X, but now that production of the new-generation D-Max has begun in Thailand (from where the local-spec Adventure SUV is sourced) we could soon see the underrated 7-seater feature an updated look as it inches towards the end of its lifecycle...

Following General Motors’ departure from the South African market at the end of 2017, Isuzu took ownership of the multinational’s former production facility in Port Elizabeth. With the discontinuation of the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Isuzu introduced the MU-X (on which the former was based, anyway) in the local market in 2018. In fact, it was the first model that the (then) newly-formed Isuzu Motors SA – which finished runner-up to Volkswagen in the 2019/20 #CarsAwards Brand of the Year rankings – launched in Mzansi.

Although the sales figures of the MU-X pales into insignificance compared with those of its Toyota Fortuner arch-rival, Isuzu’s Adventure SUV was a finalist in its category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank in 2018/19.

Refreshed Isuzu MU-X on cards for SA?

Isuzu Motors SA recently introduced the option of a diff-lock on its MU-X, but now that production of the new-generation D-Max has begun in Thailand (from where the local-spec Adventure SUV is sourced) we could soon see the underrated 7-seater feature an updated look as it inches towards the end...

www.cars.co.za