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The Isuzu Thread
- Thread starter FiestaST
- Start date
FiestaST
Honorary Master
2017 Isuzu D-Max (KB)
Isuzu SA to build KB X-Rider for rest of Africa, too…
Back in July 2016, Isuzu launched the special-edition X-Rider derivative in South Africa. With all 700 locally produced units sold by April 2017, the automaker then decided to permanently add the variant to its range.
And now Isuzu Motors – which earlier this year announced its intention to purchase the General Motors plant in South Africa as well as GM’s 30% shareholding in Isuzu Trucks SA – has confirmed that it will expand its offering in Sub-Saharan Africa to include the KB X-Rider model, equipped with 4×4 (the variant offered in SA, it must be noted, is rear-wheel drive only).
The brand says the X-Rider will be offered in some 14 left-hand-drive countries across the continent, initially in 4×4 double-cab guise only. Production for these left-hand-drive markets started in South Africa in September, with initial shipments set to commence towards the end of 2017.
The X-Rider will also be exported to various other right-hand-drive markets, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Mauritius and the Seychelles.
“The X-Rider is a unique model, home-grown by the local team to meet local customer demands. Africa’s terrain, our outdoors lifestyle and entrepreneurial spirit require a vehicle that will partner motorists reliably, cost effectively and with a certain level of driving enjoyment too,” said Dominic Rimmer, general manager, planning and programme management, Sub-Saharan Africa.
“Already well-loved and trusted for its decades of toughness and reliability, the Isuzu brand introduced a new level of comfort and individual style when it introduced this workhorse last year. Creating new models that step up to match customers’ desires will ultimately grow the business for Isuzu.
“In our African markets, with a growing middle-class, an increasing number of customers are moving into the leisure pick-up segment, for which the X-Rider offers the ideal combination of great styling and specifications,” said Rimmer.
In South Africa, the X-Rider uses the high-output version of Isuzu’s 2,5-litre turbodiesel engine, worth 100 kW and 320 N.m. The standard 18-inch alloys are wrapped in 255/60 Grabber all-terrain tyres, while a sports bar, running boards, projector headlamps and a front bumper-guard are all also included. Inside, you’ll find leather seats and plenty of red stitching.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/isuzu-sa-to-build-kb-x-rider-for-rest-of-africa-too/
Isuzu SA to build KB X-Rider for rest of Africa, too…
Back in July 2016, Isuzu launched the special-edition X-Rider derivative in South Africa. With all 700 locally produced units sold by April 2017, the automaker then decided to permanently add the variant to its range.
And now Isuzu Motors – which earlier this year announced its intention to purchase the General Motors plant in South Africa as well as GM’s 30% shareholding in Isuzu Trucks SA – has confirmed that it will expand its offering in Sub-Saharan Africa to include the KB X-Rider model, equipped with 4×4 (the variant offered in SA, it must be noted, is rear-wheel drive only).
The brand says the X-Rider will be offered in some 14 left-hand-drive countries across the continent, initially in 4×4 double-cab guise only. Production for these left-hand-drive markets started in South Africa in September, with initial shipments set to commence towards the end of 2017.
The X-Rider will also be exported to various other right-hand-drive markets, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Mauritius and the Seychelles.
“The X-Rider is a unique model, home-grown by the local team to meet local customer demands. Africa’s terrain, our outdoors lifestyle and entrepreneurial spirit require a vehicle that will partner motorists reliably, cost effectively and with a certain level of driving enjoyment too,” said Dominic Rimmer, general manager, planning and programme management, Sub-Saharan Africa.
“Already well-loved and trusted for its decades of toughness and reliability, the Isuzu brand introduced a new level of comfort and individual style when it introduced this workhorse last year. Creating new models that step up to match customers’ desires will ultimately grow the business for Isuzu.
“In our African markets, with a growing middle-class, an increasing number of customers are moving into the leisure pick-up segment, for which the X-Rider offers the ideal combination of great styling and specifications,” said Rimmer.
In South Africa, the X-Rider uses the high-output version of Isuzu’s 2,5-litre turbodiesel engine, worth 100 kW and 320 N.m. The standard 18-inch alloys are wrapped in 255/60 Grabber all-terrain tyres, while a sports bar, running boards, projector headlamps and a front bumper-guard are all also included. Inside, you’ll find leather seats and plenty of red stitching.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/isuzu-sa-to-build-kb-x-rider-for-rest-of-africa-too/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Isuzu expands KB range: X-Rider 4x4 Crew Cab gets permanent spot in SA
Initially antroduced as a 700-unit limited edition, the KB 4x4 crew cab X-Ride has proved so popular with SA bakkie fans that Isuzu has given it a permanent place among its line-up.
Production will begin in September, with initial shipments commencing towards the end of the year.
The X-Rider will also be exported to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Mauritius and Seychelles.
The X-Rider is powered by a 100kW/320Nm high-output version of Isuzu’s 2.5-litre turbodiesel.
The 18” wheels are shod with 255/60 Grabber AT all-terrain tyres as well as the inclusion of a sports bar; running-boards; projector headlights with styled front-bumper guard. Inside, it's fitted with leather seats, red stitching, radio controls and leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Locally, their are 19 KB derivatives available in three body types.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...4-crew-cab-gets-permanent-spot-in-sa-20171012
Initially antroduced as a 700-unit limited edition, the KB 4x4 crew cab X-Ride has proved so popular with SA bakkie fans that Isuzu has given it a permanent place among its line-up.
Production will begin in September, with initial shipments commencing towards the end of the year.
The X-Rider will also be exported to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Mauritius and Seychelles.
The X-Rider is powered by a 100kW/320Nm high-output version of Isuzu’s 2.5-litre turbodiesel.
The 18” wheels are shod with 255/60 Grabber AT all-terrain tyres as well as the inclusion of a sports bar; running-boards; projector headlights with styled front-bumper guard. Inside, it's fitted with leather seats, red stitching, radio controls and leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Locally, their are 19 KB derivatives available in three body types.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...4-crew-cab-gets-permanent-spot-in-sa-20171012
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Isuzu M-UX (2018) International Launch Review
General Motors and its Chevrolet brand will soon no longer feature in the South African new vehicle marketplace, but Isuzu and Opel will forge ahead on their own steam from 2018. However, don't assume that the Japenese brand will only build and market bakkies and trucks... The 7-seater MU-X adventure SUV is, for all intents and purposes, Isuzu's substitute for the perennially underperforming Chevrolet Trailblazer, and its likely to arrive on local soil in the second half of next year.
Isuzu has such a strong history in the South African market with the KB bakkie that it’s kind of surprising that while the Japanese brand was under the custodianship of General Motors, the MU-X was marketed as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, replete with Duramax engines developed in conjunction with Italian VM Motori. Suffice to say that, compared with the runaway success of the Toyota Fortuner, the Trailblazer was a sales disappointment since its introduction in late 2012, especially considering that it offered surfeit kerb appeal, a diverse derivative line-up, extensive warranty and good off-road capability.
The shape of the MU-X will be immediately recognisable to SA consumers... is it better looking than even the Trailblazer?
Meanwhile, the KB-based adventure SUV has been on sale for a few years now in markets like Australia, and it has forged a name for being a reliable, ready-for-anything off-roader with seven seats and a bulletproof turbodiesel engine. A recent update to the MU-X saw it attract some refinement changes inside, not to mention a new drivetrain to make it keep up with newer competitors like the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, updated Ford Everest and, of course, the Toyota Fortuner.
Under the bonnet
The big news as part of the updated MU-X launched recently was the pumped up 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, which retains the same 130 kW of power, but sees a torque bump to 430 Nm – that’s 50 Nm more than before (and what’s available in the current KB), but it’s made more usable by the fact a 6-speed automatic transmission is fitted in place of the old 5-speeder.
It may well be that Isuzu follows the same strategy with the MU-X as it does with the KB, and similar to that employed for the Trailblazer – an entry-level 2.5-litre engine with 100 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque, or a stronger 2.8-litre with 132 kW/440 Nm.
Although the Australian-spec 3.0-litre engine might not be offered on the local market; the KB's D-TEQ motor could suffice.
The 3.0-litre is a tireless engine, whether you’re doing backcountry miles with a caravan in tow, or if you’re tramping more common ground in your hometown. The diesel engine’s full torque output is only available across a narrow rev band (2 000-2 200 rpm), but a big proportion of it – 380 Nm – can be wrung from 1700 rpm through to 3500 rpm.
There’s a good level of refinement to the way it builds pace, and the 6-speed automatic doesn't lumber at lower speeds – though it can be a little confused as to whether it should be in 4th, 5th or 6th gear at pace.
It won’t lose too much pace up steep hills when laden with passengers or when tugging a trailer, but it's the day-to-day effortlessness of the 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, and its well-known reliability, that could make this a good choice for potential buyers.
The Isuzu's fascia shows its age, but here's hoping local models will benefit from that touchscreen interface with integrated navigation.
Driving dynamics
The Isuzu MU-X isn’t a new vehicle, having been around for quite some time in markets such as Australia (since 2013, to be precise), and it can’t necessarily keep up with the best leisure off-roaders on the market for driving dynamics. A Ford Everest, with its fingertip-light steering and pliant ride quality, is certainly a more convincing option for outright car-like-ness.
But that isn’t to say this MU-X is embarrassed by its senior status. It is still quite truck-like to drive, with a heavy and slow steering rack, and suspension that is tuned to deal with bumpy roads rather than absolute body control. However, the company added some extra insulation to the floor, firewall and windscreen as part of the recent update, so it feels relatively quite and composed if you are hustling along a gravel road. Urban driving is easily dealt with, as the 5-link rear suspension (not leaf springs like the KB) is supple enough without being too soft.
The MU-X also features a five-link rear suspension, as opposed to traditional leaf springs, which augers well for ride refinement.
There are both 4x2 and 4x4 models sold around the world, though it would be remiss of a buyer to go for the 4x2, because there’s plenty of off-road cred to be explored in a ladder-frame SUV like the MU-X.
It has one of the simplest off-road gearing selectors that allows shift-on-the-fly changes from 2H to 4H at speeds up to 100 kph, and ,of course, there’s a 4L mode for when things get particularly treacherous. And if they do, you’ll be assured by the MU-X’s newly added hill descent control system, not to mention the heavy-duty protection to the under body and transfer case. The Bi-LED headlamps are quite good as well.
In the cabin
You can’t escape the utility roots of the MU-X – it lacks steering column reach adjustment, for example, and it has only single-zone climate control, where some purpose-built family SUVs have temperature controls for both front passengers and a separate setting for those in the rear. There are vents to all three rows, though, and the seating comfort for adults is definitely acceptable for front and 2nd-row occupants.
The interior comfort of the Trailblazer was a revelation upon the product's introduction 5 years ago; that still rings true today.
The cockpit has good storage on offer for loose items, and if you are only using 5 seats, there is a large amount of cargo room on offer (878 litres). With all 7 seats in play that drops to just 235 litres, and if you’re only using the front 2 seats, there’s up to 1 830 litres if you fold the 2nd and 3rd roads flat.
The particular model I drove was the high-end offering, which has all sorts of niceties like leather trim, electric driver’s seat adjustment, keyless entry and push-button start, and even a 10-inch roof-mounted screen for DVDs to keep the kids entertained.
No matter which specification derivatives end up being offered in South Africa, the 7-seat MU-X will most certainly live up to your expectations IF you bear in mind its workhorse heritage – though it remains convincing enough in its attempts to be family-friendly. In a way, it will be a brand builder for Isuzu... an adventure SUV that can only benefit from the buying public's regard for the Japanese marque.
The biggest aesthetic difference between the MU-X and the Trailblazer: the tail-light clusters are more car-like.
Summary
While the M-UX doesn't have a reputation for quality, ability and ruggedness to rival the Toyota Fortuner and isn't quite as polished an offering as the Ford Everest or, judging from our recent video review, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, there is no doubt the Isuzu represents a credible alternative to those vehicles, let alone a replacement for its late cousin, the Trailblazer. The official line is that the MU-X is "currently under consideration and (Isuzu is) studying the opportunity to introduce it to the local market. The proposed timing for potential introduction of the vehicle is around the second half of next year". However, there have been reports of evaluation units of the MU-X being spotted in South Africa and we're willing to bet it will indeed go on sale. Now, if only Isuzu would drop the M-UX moniker and revive the Frontier name!
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/isuzu-m-ux-2018-international-launch-review/44082/
General Motors and its Chevrolet brand will soon no longer feature in the South African new vehicle marketplace, but Isuzu and Opel will forge ahead on their own steam from 2018. However, don't assume that the Japenese brand will only build and market bakkies and trucks... The 7-seater MU-X adventure SUV is, for all intents and purposes, Isuzu's substitute for the perennially underperforming Chevrolet Trailblazer, and its likely to arrive on local soil in the second half of next year.
Isuzu has such a strong history in the South African market with the KB bakkie that it’s kind of surprising that while the Japanese brand was under the custodianship of General Motors, the MU-X was marketed as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, replete with Duramax engines developed in conjunction with Italian VM Motori. Suffice to say that, compared with the runaway success of the Toyota Fortuner, the Trailblazer was a sales disappointment since its introduction in late 2012, especially considering that it offered surfeit kerb appeal, a diverse derivative line-up, extensive warranty and good off-road capability.
The shape of the MU-X will be immediately recognisable to SA consumers... is it better looking than even the Trailblazer?
Meanwhile, the KB-based adventure SUV has been on sale for a few years now in markets like Australia, and it has forged a name for being a reliable, ready-for-anything off-roader with seven seats and a bulletproof turbodiesel engine. A recent update to the MU-X saw it attract some refinement changes inside, not to mention a new drivetrain to make it keep up with newer competitors like the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, updated Ford Everest and, of course, the Toyota Fortuner.
Under the bonnet
The big news as part of the updated MU-X launched recently was the pumped up 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, which retains the same 130 kW of power, but sees a torque bump to 430 Nm – that’s 50 Nm more than before (and what’s available in the current KB), but it’s made more usable by the fact a 6-speed automatic transmission is fitted in place of the old 5-speeder.
It may well be that Isuzu follows the same strategy with the MU-X as it does with the KB, and similar to that employed for the Trailblazer – an entry-level 2.5-litre engine with 100 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque, or a stronger 2.8-litre with 132 kW/440 Nm.
Although the Australian-spec 3.0-litre engine might not be offered on the local market; the KB's D-TEQ motor could suffice.
The 3.0-litre is a tireless engine, whether you’re doing backcountry miles with a caravan in tow, or if you’re tramping more common ground in your hometown. The diesel engine’s full torque output is only available across a narrow rev band (2 000-2 200 rpm), but a big proportion of it – 380 Nm – can be wrung from 1700 rpm through to 3500 rpm.
There’s a good level of refinement to the way it builds pace, and the 6-speed automatic doesn't lumber at lower speeds – though it can be a little confused as to whether it should be in 4th, 5th or 6th gear at pace.
It won’t lose too much pace up steep hills when laden with passengers or when tugging a trailer, but it's the day-to-day effortlessness of the 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, and its well-known reliability, that could make this a good choice for potential buyers.
The Isuzu's fascia shows its age, but here's hoping local models will benefit from that touchscreen interface with integrated navigation.
Driving dynamics
The Isuzu MU-X isn’t a new vehicle, having been around for quite some time in markets such as Australia (since 2013, to be precise), and it can’t necessarily keep up with the best leisure off-roaders on the market for driving dynamics. A Ford Everest, with its fingertip-light steering and pliant ride quality, is certainly a more convincing option for outright car-like-ness.
But that isn’t to say this MU-X is embarrassed by its senior status. It is still quite truck-like to drive, with a heavy and slow steering rack, and suspension that is tuned to deal with bumpy roads rather than absolute body control. However, the company added some extra insulation to the floor, firewall and windscreen as part of the recent update, so it feels relatively quite and composed if you are hustling along a gravel road. Urban driving is easily dealt with, as the 5-link rear suspension (not leaf springs like the KB) is supple enough without being too soft.
The MU-X also features a five-link rear suspension, as opposed to traditional leaf springs, which augers well for ride refinement.
There are both 4x2 and 4x4 models sold around the world, though it would be remiss of a buyer to go for the 4x2, because there’s plenty of off-road cred to be explored in a ladder-frame SUV like the MU-X.
It has one of the simplest off-road gearing selectors that allows shift-on-the-fly changes from 2H to 4H at speeds up to 100 kph, and ,of course, there’s a 4L mode for when things get particularly treacherous. And if they do, you’ll be assured by the MU-X’s newly added hill descent control system, not to mention the heavy-duty protection to the under body and transfer case. The Bi-LED headlamps are quite good as well.
In the cabin
You can’t escape the utility roots of the MU-X – it lacks steering column reach adjustment, for example, and it has only single-zone climate control, where some purpose-built family SUVs have temperature controls for both front passengers and a separate setting for those in the rear. There are vents to all three rows, though, and the seating comfort for adults is definitely acceptable for front and 2nd-row occupants.
The interior comfort of the Trailblazer was a revelation upon the product's introduction 5 years ago; that still rings true today.
The cockpit has good storage on offer for loose items, and if you are only using 5 seats, there is a large amount of cargo room on offer (878 litres). With all 7 seats in play that drops to just 235 litres, and if you’re only using the front 2 seats, there’s up to 1 830 litres if you fold the 2nd and 3rd roads flat.
The particular model I drove was the high-end offering, which has all sorts of niceties like leather trim, electric driver’s seat adjustment, keyless entry and push-button start, and even a 10-inch roof-mounted screen for DVDs to keep the kids entertained.
No matter which specification derivatives end up being offered in South Africa, the 7-seat MU-X will most certainly live up to your expectations IF you bear in mind its workhorse heritage – though it remains convincing enough in its attempts to be family-friendly. In a way, it will be a brand builder for Isuzu... an adventure SUV that can only benefit from the buying public's regard for the Japanese marque.
The biggest aesthetic difference between the MU-X and the Trailblazer: the tail-light clusters are more car-like.
Summary
While the M-UX doesn't have a reputation for quality, ability and ruggedness to rival the Toyota Fortuner and isn't quite as polished an offering as the Ford Everest or, judging from our recent video review, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, there is no doubt the Isuzu represents a credible alternative to those vehicles, let alone a replacement for its late cousin, the Trailblazer. The official line is that the MU-X is "currently under consideration and (Isuzu is) studying the opportunity to introduce it to the local market. The proposed timing for potential introduction of the vehicle is around the second half of next year". However, there have been reports of evaluation units of the MU-X being spotted in South Africa and we're willing to bet it will indeed go on sale. Now, if only Isuzu would drop the M-UX moniker and revive the Frontier name!
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/isuzu-m-ux-2018-international-launch-review/44082/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Hemi300c
Honorary Master
It's all in the pricing at that level. The vehicles are much of a likeness and it's only Brand that sways IMO.
If the price is good they will buy.
Edit:- Oh yes put a decent fking radio/head unit in as well and not the Isuzu shyte.
ToxicBunny
Oi! Leave me out of this...
They def need to bring something like that to the market....
FiestaST
Honorary Master
I'm sure we can all agree the Isuzu brand carries a **** lot more credibility than the Chevrolet brand in SA.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MotorMatters review of the KB 250D-Teq D/Cab X-Rider
[video=youtube_share;T2WW07B_7ME]https://youtu.be/T2WW07B_7ME[/video]
[video=youtube_share;T2WW07B_7ME]https://youtu.be/T2WW07B_7ME[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Isuzu bakkies back 'Movember' charity in SA
Isuzu is getting behind the Movember Foundation’s drive for greater awareness of the crisis in men’s health, particularly testicular and prostate cancer and suicide prevention.
Isuzu has put the Foundation behind the wheel of three specially branded double cab bakkies for the duration of their campaign, ensuring impactful mobile awareness of the fund-raising initiative. The vehicles are covering the country to spread the Movember word at various high profile events.
The Movember Foundation funds over 1 200 men’s health projects in 21 countries worldwide. Garron Gsell, chief executive and founder of the Men’s Foundation, which manages the local Movember campaign, said it was powerful to have Isuzu backing South African men.
“It’s great that Isuzu is gearing up to “be the difference” to stop men dying too young. In South Africa, prostate is the second leading cause of cancer death and, on average, 18 men take their own lives each day in South Africa – the eighth highest rate globally,” Gsell said.
“It’s critical that we start the conversations, get ourselves tested and become more physically active. For 30 days in November, ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Mo Sistas’ will be rallying to raise funds and awareness for the issues surrounding men’s health.
To date, Movember has raised over R6-billion worldwide to deliver innovative research and support programmes for happier, healthier and longer male lives. Since 2010, over R25-million has been donated to the Cancer Association of South Africa through local efforts.
Tim Hendon, Isuzu Marketing Manager, said the awareness campaign is in line with the brand’s ethos which demonstrates reliability and care. “We all have the tendency to take our vehicles for its service when we completed certain mileage. In the same way, we encourage men to take care of their own health. Real men go for check-ups,” said Hendon.
Back at the plant in Port Elizabeth, where Isuzu vehicles are built, awareness programmes encourage regular medical check-ups for early detection and prevention. “We are all affected by cancer and by mental health issues, however, Isuzu’s support for Movember can help to extend awareness beyond our own employees,” Hendon said.
“We are encouraging all our employees, customers and friends to sign up at www.movember.com and to follow the hairy activities on social media: facebook/MovemberSouthAfrica.”
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...-bakkies-back-movember-charity-in-sa-20171108
Isuzu is getting behind the Movember Foundation’s drive for greater awareness of the crisis in men’s health, particularly testicular and prostate cancer and suicide prevention.
Isuzu has put the Foundation behind the wheel of three specially branded double cab bakkies for the duration of their campaign, ensuring impactful mobile awareness of the fund-raising initiative. The vehicles are covering the country to spread the Movember word at various high profile events.
The Movember Foundation funds over 1 200 men’s health projects in 21 countries worldwide. Garron Gsell, chief executive and founder of the Men’s Foundation, which manages the local Movember campaign, said it was powerful to have Isuzu backing South African men.
“It’s great that Isuzu is gearing up to “be the difference” to stop men dying too young. In South Africa, prostate is the second leading cause of cancer death and, on average, 18 men take their own lives each day in South Africa – the eighth highest rate globally,” Gsell said.
“It’s critical that we start the conversations, get ourselves tested and become more physically active. For 30 days in November, ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Mo Sistas’ will be rallying to raise funds and awareness for the issues surrounding men’s health.
To date, Movember has raised over R6-billion worldwide to deliver innovative research and support programmes for happier, healthier and longer male lives. Since 2010, over R25-million has been donated to the Cancer Association of South Africa through local efforts.
Tim Hendon, Isuzu Marketing Manager, said the awareness campaign is in line with the brand’s ethos which demonstrates reliability and care. “We all have the tendency to take our vehicles for its service when we completed certain mileage. In the same way, we encourage men to take care of their own health. Real men go for check-ups,” said Hendon.
Back at the plant in Port Elizabeth, where Isuzu vehicles are built, awareness programmes encourage regular medical check-ups for early detection and prevention. “We are all affected by cancer and by mental health issues, however, Isuzu’s support for Movember can help to extend awareness beyond our own employees,” Hendon said.
“We are encouraging all our employees, customers and friends to sign up at www.movember.com and to follow the hairy activities on social media: facebook/MovemberSouthAfrica.”
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...-bakkies-back-movember-charity-in-sa-20171108
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Isuzu exec says KB’s 3,0-litre unit is ‘under-stressed’
An Isuzu Australia executive has suggested that there’s plenty of untapped performance potential in the Japanese brand’s 3,0-litre turbodiesel engine, describing the unit as “under-stressed”.
In South Africa, the four-cylinder oil-burner makes 130 kW and 380 N.m, while the same Isuzu engine in the market Down Under earlier this year received some extra torque, taking the peak figure to 430 N.m.
While those numbers aren’t quite as impressive as the 3,2-litre Ford Ranger’s 147 kW and 470 N.m nor the V6-powered Volkswagen Amarok’s 165 kW and 550 N.m, Isuzu Australia’s PR and sponsorship manager, Mark Harman, hinted that more oomph could be on the way.
“Our package right now is very capable – if anything it’s under-strung. It’s under-stressed,” Harman told CarAdvice.
“Its outputs are lower than the others, and it’s a very de-stressed engine. Its compression ratio is quite low, and so is the turbo boost pressure.
“Is there more in the engine? You could jump on a forum and you could see what they’re pushing, and it’s incredible numbers,” Harman said.
“I’d say there’s more for this engine in development, which is why we have taken the 3.0-litre diesel for 2017 onwards – as opposed to the 2,5 and a 1,9 that was teased to us by Isuzu Motors.”
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/isuzu-exec-says-kbs-30-litre-unit-is-under-stressed/
An Isuzu Australia executive has suggested that there’s plenty of untapped performance potential in the Japanese brand’s 3,0-litre turbodiesel engine, describing the unit as “under-stressed”.
In South Africa, the four-cylinder oil-burner makes 130 kW and 380 N.m, while the same Isuzu engine in the market Down Under earlier this year received some extra torque, taking the peak figure to 430 N.m.
While those numbers aren’t quite as impressive as the 3,2-litre Ford Ranger’s 147 kW and 470 N.m nor the V6-powered Volkswagen Amarok’s 165 kW and 550 N.m, Isuzu Australia’s PR and sponsorship manager, Mark Harman, hinted that more oomph could be on the way.
“Our package right now is very capable – if anything it’s under-strung. It’s under-stressed,” Harman told CarAdvice.
“Its outputs are lower than the others, and it’s a very de-stressed engine. Its compression ratio is quite low, and so is the turbo boost pressure.
“Is there more in the engine? You could jump on a forum and you could see what they’re pushing, and it’s incredible numbers,” Harman said.
“I’d say there’s more for this engine in development, which is why we have taken the 3.0-litre diesel for 2017 onwards – as opposed to the 2,5 and a 1,9 that was teased to us by Isuzu Motors.”
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/isuzu-exec-says-kbs-30-litre-unit-is-under-stressed/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
ISUZU MU-X, ANYONE? KB-BASED SUV COMING TO SA…
We’ve long been awaiting confirmation that the body-on-frame Isuzu MU-X is heading to South Africa, and now our sister publication, Leisure Wheels, is reporting that the KB-based SUV will touch down on local shores in the first quarter of 2018.
First, the MU-X found itself on the cover of the November issue of Leisure Wheels, and now that report is online (read the full story here), with the publication predicting that the Isuzu-badged SUV – which was unveiled in its current form back in late 2013 – will fare better in SA than its Chevrolet Trailblazer cousin.
Of course, back in May, General Motors announced that it would cease operations in South Africa, with the Chevrolet brand to be phased out of the local market at the end of 2017. Isuzu Motors then revealed its intention to purchase the Struandale plant in Port Elizabeth as well as GM’s 30% shareholding in Isuzu Trucks South Africa. And that has seemingly opened the door for Isuzu to finally offer an SUV in South Africa again (remember the Isuzu Frontier?).
Set to take the fight to the big-selling Toyota Fortuner, the increasingly popular Ford Everest (which enjoyed its highest-ever sales tally in November 2017) and the new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, the top-spec versions of the seven-seater MU-X offered in overseas markets use the KB’s 3,0-litre turbodiesel mill – which makes 130 kW and 430 N.m (the local version of the bakkie churns out 380 N.m) rather than the Trailblazer’s 144 kW/500 N.m 2,8-litre oil-burner. A 1,9-litre turbodiesel is also available in markets such as Thailand. Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are offered, along with the option of all-wheel drive.
Local specifications, powertrain options and – crucially – pricing will likely be revealed closer to the expected launch of the Isuzu MU-X early in 2018.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/isuzu-mu-x-anyone-kb-based-suv-coming-to-sa/
We’ve long been awaiting confirmation that the body-on-frame Isuzu MU-X is heading to South Africa, and now our sister publication, Leisure Wheels, is reporting that the KB-based SUV will touch down on local shores in the first quarter of 2018.
First, the MU-X found itself on the cover of the November issue of Leisure Wheels, and now that report is online (read the full story here), with the publication predicting that the Isuzu-badged SUV – which was unveiled in its current form back in late 2013 – will fare better in SA than its Chevrolet Trailblazer cousin.
Of course, back in May, General Motors announced that it would cease operations in South Africa, with the Chevrolet brand to be phased out of the local market at the end of 2017. Isuzu Motors then revealed its intention to purchase the Struandale plant in Port Elizabeth as well as GM’s 30% shareholding in Isuzu Trucks South Africa. And that has seemingly opened the door for Isuzu to finally offer an SUV in South Africa again (remember the Isuzu Frontier?).
Set to take the fight to the big-selling Toyota Fortuner, the increasingly popular Ford Everest (which enjoyed its highest-ever sales tally in November 2017) and the new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, the top-spec versions of the seven-seater MU-X offered in overseas markets use the KB’s 3,0-litre turbodiesel mill – which makes 130 kW and 430 N.m (the local version of the bakkie churns out 380 N.m) rather than the Trailblazer’s 144 kW/500 N.m 2,8-litre oil-burner. A 1,9-litre turbodiesel is also available in markets such as Thailand. Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are offered, along with the option of all-wheel drive.
Local specifications, powertrain options and – crucially – pricing will likely be revealed closer to the expected launch of the Isuzu MU-X early in 2018.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/isuzu-mu-x-anyone-kb-based-suv-coming-to-sa/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Note:
cr@zydude
Honorary Master
There's been at least one in Cape Town since 2016. I posted a picture in the are car thread last year.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Isuzu MU-X and 3 Rivals It Needs to Beat
Isuzu is considering the introduction of the MU-X 7-seater adventure SUV in South Africa in 2018 (that's still the official position of the Japanese brand) and if it arrives, the newcomer will come up against some stiff, well-established competition in the popular segment. Take a look at what you can expect from the MU-X, as well as a quick look at its key rivals.
With General Motors exiting the South African market at the end of 2017, Chevrolet and its capable, but poor-selling Trailblazer SUV is no more. Isuzu, however, has taken over GM’s operations at the Struandale plant in Port Elizabeth, where it produces its KB pickup for both the local and other African markets.
As Isuzu works to set up at least 90 standalone dealerships across South Africa, the Japanese LCV and truck giant is also planning on introducing its KB-based MU-X 7-seater SUV in South Africa, which should bolster the Japanese brand during this transitional phase. The MU-X, however, will not be built in South Africa, but will rather be imported from Thailand.
A representative from Isuzu has confirmed that the MU-X is still under consideration for the local market and if it proves to be suitable for our market (its viability is currently being tested in South Africa), then it will likely officially arrive in South Africa in the second half of 2018.
Moreover, local specification and engine offerings have yet to be finalised. In Australia, the MU-X is powered by a Euro-5 compliant, 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 130 kW and 430 Nm of torque, which is unlikely to be offered in South Africa due to our poor fuel quality.
However, it is likely that the familiar, allbeit detuned, 130 kW/380 Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine that currently does service in the Isuzu KB will be offered in the MU-X if it arrives and it might even be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, unlike the 5-speed automatic used in the KB. The MU-X is also likely to be offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 guise. The 4x4 derivatives will feature the KB’s familiar ‘shift-on-the-fly’ gearing system that allows for easy transition between 2H, 4H and 4L.
The interior of the Isuzu MU-X is rather workmanlike, but it's robust and should withstand everyday abuse with relative ease.
As for the MU-X’s interior, it’s utilitarian in design, which might fall short of the competition, but it should prove to be well-suited to cope with the abuse it will face on a typical South African family adventure holiday. Space for front and second-row passengers is adequate and the MU-X offers 878 litres of space when the third row of seats aren’t in use. When they are in use, load volume reduces to 235 litres. With the entire rear passenger area used for load carrying purposes, a capacious 1 830 litres is at your disposal.
Our Australian correspondent Matt Campbell, drove the range-topping MU-X which was also fitted with a touchscreen infotainment system and a roof-mounted, 10-inch DVD player, but we can only hope that these nifty features will be offered in our market.
Provided that Isuzu can offer the MU-X with competitive pricing and a reasonable amount of standard specification, we believe that it could sell relatively well in South Africa – at the very least better than the departed Chevrolet Trailblazer. Let’s take a look at 3 of the Isuzu MU-X’s key rivals in South Africa.
Toyota Fortuner
By far the most popular 7-seat SUV in South Africa, the Toyota Fortuner has found favour with thousands of local buyers and continues to sell strongly on a monthly basis. The Fortuner is offered with a choice of 4 engines including the popular 130 kW/420 Nm 2.8-litre turbodiesel, the 100 kW / 400 Nm 2.4-litre turbodiesel, the 122 kW / 245 Nm 2.7-litre petrol and the 175 kW/376 Nm 4.0-litre V6 petrol. The Fortuner is available in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises; manual and automatic transmissions are offered.
In terms of luggage space, we suspect (but stand to be corrected), that the MU-X’s load bay will offer more space than the Fortuner. In the Fortuner, the third row of seats fold away to the sides of the load bay, impinging on the utility space. In the MU-X, the seats fold into the floor leaving the load bay unobstructed, which means the MU-X may have more "usable" space.
Pricing for the Toyota Fortuner starts at R448 900, going all the way up to R682 400 for the V6 derivative. It’s worth mentioning that the Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4x4 Auto is a finalist in the Adventure SUV category of the Cars.co.za Awards - powered by WesBank.
Ford Everest
The Ford Everest is a popular alternative to the Fortuner and it too sells well on a monthly basis. The Everest is offered with a choice of 2 engines including the 118 kW/385 Nm 2.2-litre turbodiesel and the larger, more powerful 147 kW/470 Nm 3.2-litre turbodiesel. Both 4x2 and 4x4 derivatives are offered with manual and automatic transmissions available to buyers.
In terms of loading capacity, the Everest is slightly more spacious than the Isuzu MU-X with a load capacity of 1 050 litres with the third row of seating stowed in the boot floor. Furthermore, with all the seats folded flat, the Everest offers up to 2 010 litres of space.
Pricing for the Ford Everest starts at R459 900 and goes up to R706 900 for the top-spec Everest 3.2 4WD Limited, which also happens to be a finalist in the Adventure SUV category of the Cars.co.za Awards – powered by WesBank.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Mitsubishi introduced its all-new Pajero Sport to market last year and although it doesn't sell as well as the Fortuner or Everest, it’s still a formidable and more affordable rival in this segment. The Pajero Sport is offered as a 4x2 or 4x4, both powered by a 133 kW/430 Nm 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine. An automatic transmission is fitted as standard.
In terms of load space, the Pajero Sport offers 813 litres with the third row of seats stowed and only 193 litres with all the seats in use. That means that the Isuzu MU-X offers more load space than the Pajero Sport.
Pricing for the Pajero Sport starts at R569 995 for the 4x2 version while the 4x4 version is priced at R599 995. The Pajero Sport 2.4 D4 4x4 is also a finalist in the Adventure SUV category of the Cars.co.za Awards – powered by WesBank.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/isuzu-mu-x-and-3-rivals-it-needs-to-beat/44464/
Isuzu is considering the introduction of the MU-X 7-seater adventure SUV in South Africa in 2018 (that's still the official position of the Japanese brand) and if it arrives, the newcomer will come up against some stiff, well-established competition in the popular segment. Take a look at what you can expect from the MU-X, as well as a quick look at its key rivals.
With General Motors exiting the South African market at the end of 2017, Chevrolet and its capable, but poor-selling Trailblazer SUV is no more. Isuzu, however, has taken over GM’s operations at the Struandale plant in Port Elizabeth, where it produces its KB pickup for both the local and other African markets.
As Isuzu works to set up at least 90 standalone dealerships across South Africa, the Japanese LCV and truck giant is also planning on introducing its KB-based MU-X 7-seater SUV in South Africa, which should bolster the Japanese brand during this transitional phase. The MU-X, however, will not be built in South Africa, but will rather be imported from Thailand.
A representative from Isuzu has confirmed that the MU-X is still under consideration for the local market and if it proves to be suitable for our market (its viability is currently being tested in South Africa), then it will likely officially arrive in South Africa in the second half of 2018.
Moreover, local specification and engine offerings have yet to be finalised. In Australia, the MU-X is powered by a Euro-5 compliant, 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 130 kW and 430 Nm of torque, which is unlikely to be offered in South Africa due to our poor fuel quality.
However, it is likely that the familiar, allbeit detuned, 130 kW/380 Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine that currently does service in the Isuzu KB will be offered in the MU-X if it arrives and it might even be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, unlike the 5-speed automatic used in the KB. The MU-X is also likely to be offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 guise. The 4x4 derivatives will feature the KB’s familiar ‘shift-on-the-fly’ gearing system that allows for easy transition between 2H, 4H and 4L.
The interior of the Isuzu MU-X is rather workmanlike, but it's robust and should withstand everyday abuse with relative ease.
As for the MU-X’s interior, it’s utilitarian in design, which might fall short of the competition, but it should prove to be well-suited to cope with the abuse it will face on a typical South African family adventure holiday. Space for front and second-row passengers is adequate and the MU-X offers 878 litres of space when the third row of seats aren’t in use. When they are in use, load volume reduces to 235 litres. With the entire rear passenger area used for load carrying purposes, a capacious 1 830 litres is at your disposal.
Our Australian correspondent Matt Campbell, drove the range-topping MU-X which was also fitted with a touchscreen infotainment system and a roof-mounted, 10-inch DVD player, but we can only hope that these nifty features will be offered in our market.
Provided that Isuzu can offer the MU-X with competitive pricing and a reasonable amount of standard specification, we believe that it could sell relatively well in South Africa – at the very least better than the departed Chevrolet Trailblazer. Let’s take a look at 3 of the Isuzu MU-X’s key rivals in South Africa.
Toyota Fortuner
By far the most popular 7-seat SUV in South Africa, the Toyota Fortuner has found favour with thousands of local buyers and continues to sell strongly on a monthly basis. The Fortuner is offered with a choice of 4 engines including the popular 130 kW/420 Nm 2.8-litre turbodiesel, the 100 kW / 400 Nm 2.4-litre turbodiesel, the 122 kW / 245 Nm 2.7-litre petrol and the 175 kW/376 Nm 4.0-litre V6 petrol. The Fortuner is available in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises; manual and automatic transmissions are offered.
In terms of luggage space, we suspect (but stand to be corrected), that the MU-X’s load bay will offer more space than the Fortuner. In the Fortuner, the third row of seats fold away to the sides of the load bay, impinging on the utility space. In the MU-X, the seats fold into the floor leaving the load bay unobstructed, which means the MU-X may have more "usable" space.
Pricing for the Toyota Fortuner starts at R448 900, going all the way up to R682 400 for the V6 derivative. It’s worth mentioning that the Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4x4 Auto is a finalist in the Adventure SUV category of the Cars.co.za Awards - powered by WesBank.
Ford Everest
The Ford Everest is a popular alternative to the Fortuner and it too sells well on a monthly basis. The Everest is offered with a choice of 2 engines including the 118 kW/385 Nm 2.2-litre turbodiesel and the larger, more powerful 147 kW/470 Nm 3.2-litre turbodiesel. Both 4x2 and 4x4 derivatives are offered with manual and automatic transmissions available to buyers.
In terms of loading capacity, the Everest is slightly more spacious than the Isuzu MU-X with a load capacity of 1 050 litres with the third row of seating stowed in the boot floor. Furthermore, with all the seats folded flat, the Everest offers up to 2 010 litres of space.
Pricing for the Ford Everest starts at R459 900 and goes up to R706 900 for the top-spec Everest 3.2 4WD Limited, which also happens to be a finalist in the Adventure SUV category of the Cars.co.za Awards – powered by WesBank.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Mitsubishi introduced its all-new Pajero Sport to market last year and although it doesn't sell as well as the Fortuner or Everest, it’s still a formidable and more affordable rival in this segment. The Pajero Sport is offered as a 4x2 or 4x4, both powered by a 133 kW/430 Nm 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine. An automatic transmission is fitted as standard.
In terms of load space, the Pajero Sport offers 813 litres with the third row of seats stowed and only 193 litres with all the seats in use. That means that the Isuzu MU-X offers more load space than the Pajero Sport.
Pricing for the Pajero Sport starts at R569 995 for the 4x2 version while the 4x4 version is priced at R599 995. The Pajero Sport 2.4 D4 4x4 is also a finalist in the Adventure SUV category of the Cars.co.za Awards – powered by WesBank.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/isuzu-mu-x-and-3-rivals-it-needs-to-beat/44464/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Post the pic in this thread bruv.