FiestaST
Honorary Master
Request thread name change to: "The Isuzu Thread"
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The Isuzu Thread
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FiestaST
Honorary Master
New Isuzu KB X-Rider Black launched in South Africa!
Isuzu Motors South Africa has added a fresh limited-edition model to its range of KB bakkies, dubbing the newcomer the X-Rider Black.
Available exclusively in KB250 double-cab guise (with grunt directed to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox), the special-edition X-Rider Black slots in above the standard X-Rider that was made a permanent fixture of the range early in 2017.
And, like that 4×2 model, it is powered by the Japanese brand’s familiar 2,5-litre turbodiesel, delivering an unchanged 100 kW and 320 N.m. Priced at R426 300, the X-Rider Black commands an R18 500 premium over the standard rear-wheel-drive X-Rider (for the record, the standard X-Rider is also offered in 4×4 configuration, while the X-Rider Black is not … for now, at least).
What does that extra cash buy you? Well, the most obvious change is the exclusive “Black Meet Kettle” body colour, while you’ll likely also notice the 18-inch alloy wheels, complete with red Isuzu badges.
In addition to the black front bumper guard, the new variant boasts blacked-out B-pillars, black side-steps and a black sports bar (the latter bearing the “X-Rider” logo). A tonneau cover is also provided as standard, along with projector headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, and front foglamps.
Inside, you’ll find black leather seats (with red stitching and the “X-Rider” logo repeated on the headrest), a leather-trimmed steering wheel and piano black trim for the vents, radio and console.
“The X-Rider has been a fantastic addition to the existing Isuzu line-up in South Africa, creating a niche of its own with its distinctive styling elements and upmarket features that set it apart from the rest of the range,” said Dominic Rimmer, executive for technical services at Isuzu Motors SA.
“The success of the X-Rider proves that there is strong demand for a tough and reliable bakkie that also looks great and offers an extensive range of added-value content. With the limited-edition X-Rider Black, we’re ramping up this exclusivity a notch to offer Isuzu bakkie buyers something even more special in the bakkie segment,” he added.
As with other KB models, the X-Rider Black comes with a five-year/120 000 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-isuzu-kb-x-rider-black-launched-south-africa/
Isuzu Motors South Africa has added a fresh limited-edition model to its range of KB bakkies, dubbing the newcomer the X-Rider Black.
Available exclusively in KB250 double-cab guise (with grunt directed to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox), the special-edition X-Rider Black slots in above the standard X-Rider that was made a permanent fixture of the range early in 2017.
And, like that 4×2 model, it is powered by the Japanese brand’s familiar 2,5-litre turbodiesel, delivering an unchanged 100 kW and 320 N.m. Priced at R426 300, the X-Rider Black commands an R18 500 premium over the standard rear-wheel-drive X-Rider (for the record, the standard X-Rider is also offered in 4×4 configuration, while the X-Rider Black is not … for now, at least).
What does that extra cash buy you? Well, the most obvious change is the exclusive “Black Meet Kettle” body colour, while you’ll likely also notice the 18-inch alloy wheels, complete with red Isuzu badges.
In addition to the black front bumper guard, the new variant boasts blacked-out B-pillars, black side-steps and a black sports bar (the latter bearing the “X-Rider” logo). A tonneau cover is also provided as standard, along with projector headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, and front foglamps.
Inside, you’ll find black leather seats (with red stitching and the “X-Rider” logo repeated on the headrest), a leather-trimmed steering wheel and piano black trim for the vents, radio and console.
“The X-Rider has been a fantastic addition to the existing Isuzu line-up in South Africa, creating a niche of its own with its distinctive styling elements and upmarket features that set it apart from the rest of the range,” said Dominic Rimmer, executive for technical services at Isuzu Motors SA.
“The success of the X-Rider proves that there is strong demand for a tough and reliable bakkie that also looks great and offers an extensive range of added-value content. With the limited-edition X-Rider Black, we’re ramping up this exclusivity a notch to offer Isuzu bakkie buyers something even more special in the bakkie segment,” he added.
As with other KB models, the X-Rider Black comes with a five-year/120 000 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-isuzu-kb-x-rider-black-launched-south-africa/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Isuzu adds X-Rider Black 4x2 to KB range
Following its recent introduction of the MU-X adventure SUV, Isuzu Motors SA has expanded its KB bakkie line-up with the launch of a limited-edition KB250 double-cab X-Rider Black 4x2 derivative.
The X-Rider specification, which incorporates distinctive styling elements and upmarket features that set it apart from the rest of the derivatives in the KB range, was introduced in 2016 as a 700-unit limited edition run, but sustained demand prompted Isuzu to make it a permanent fixture in its bakkie range early last year.
This new interpretation of the X-Rider theme is billed as a limited edition too. While the KB250 Double Cab X-Rider Black derivative, which is available in 4x2 guise with a 5-speed manual gearbox, features all the usual X-Rider trim accoutrements, it’s painted exclusively in the Black Meet Kettle body colour.
Apart from its noir exterior finish, the front of the X-Rider Black is adorned with a black bumper guard, projector headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights and fog lamps. These features are complemented by black-finished B-pillars, side steps and a sports bar in the load bay that bears an X-Rider logo on either side, which is also applied to the front doors and rear tailgate. A matching black tonneau cover and 18-inch alloys (with red Isuzu badges) complete the look.
Inside, the cabin is trimmed in black leather seats accented by red bolster stitching and the "X-Rider" logo, which is embroidered on the headrests. Red stitching is also used for the leather-trimmed steering wheel emboldened with the red Isuzu badge, and on the gear lever boot. Piano black trims feature on the vents, audio system, front console and door inserts, the latter of which bear a red "X".
The Isuzu bakkie range comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a 5-year/120 000km manufacturer warranty and roadside assistance, a 5-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km/12 months.
Prices of the Isuzu KB250 X-Rider derivatives (as of May 2018):
KB250 Double Cab X-Rider Black 4x2 MT R426 300
KB250 Double Cab X-Rider 4x2 MT R407 800
KB250 Double Cab X-Rider 4x4 MT R454 100
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/isuzu-adds-x-rider-black-4x2-to-kb-range/45052/
Following its recent introduction of the MU-X adventure SUV, Isuzu Motors SA has expanded its KB bakkie line-up with the launch of a limited-edition KB250 double-cab X-Rider Black 4x2 derivative.
The X-Rider specification, which incorporates distinctive styling elements and upmarket features that set it apart from the rest of the derivatives in the KB range, was introduced in 2016 as a 700-unit limited edition run, but sustained demand prompted Isuzu to make it a permanent fixture in its bakkie range early last year.
This new interpretation of the X-Rider theme is billed as a limited edition too. While the KB250 Double Cab X-Rider Black derivative, which is available in 4x2 guise with a 5-speed manual gearbox, features all the usual X-Rider trim accoutrements, it’s painted exclusively in the Black Meet Kettle body colour.
Apart from its noir exterior finish, the front of the X-Rider Black is adorned with a black bumper guard, projector headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights and fog lamps. These features are complemented by black-finished B-pillars, side steps and a sports bar in the load bay that bears an X-Rider logo on either side, which is also applied to the front doors and rear tailgate. A matching black tonneau cover and 18-inch alloys (with red Isuzu badges) complete the look.
Inside, the cabin is trimmed in black leather seats accented by red bolster stitching and the "X-Rider" logo, which is embroidered on the headrests. Red stitching is also used for the leather-trimmed steering wheel emboldened with the red Isuzu badge, and on the gear lever boot. Piano black trims feature on the vents, audio system, front console and door inserts, the latter of which bear a red "X".
The Isuzu bakkie range comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a 5-year/120 000km manufacturer warranty and roadside assistance, a 5-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km/12 months.
Prices of the Isuzu KB250 X-Rider derivatives (as of May 2018):
KB250 Double Cab X-Rider Black 4x2 MT R426 300
KB250 Double Cab X-Rider 4x2 MT R407 800
KB250 Double Cab X-Rider 4x4 MT R454 100
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/isuzu-adds-x-rider-black-4x2-to-kb-range/45052/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
[video=youtube_share;I8XmJYKVTDI]https://youtu.be/I8XmJYKVTDI[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Eish
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ignition GT review of the MU-X
[video=youtube_share;RhCKwRtRaNQ]https://youtu.be/RhCKwRtRaNQ[/video]
[video=youtube_share;RhCKwRtRaNQ]https://youtu.be/RhCKwRtRaNQ[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
CarTell.tv review of the MU-X LS-T
[video=youtube_share;DjR61E-Ngc0]https://youtu.be/DjR61E-Ngc0[/video]
[video=youtube_share;DjR61E-Ngc0]https://youtu.be/DjR61E-Ngc0[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Tested: Isuzu's X-Rider lays on style and value
The KB250 X-Rider double cab was first introduced in 2016 as a limited edition, but due to its popularity Isuzu decided to bring it back as a standard model, in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises.
On test here is the KB250 X-Rider Double Cab 4x4, priced at R454 100, which includes a five-year/120 000km warranty with roadside assistance, and a five-year/90 000km service plan.
With the price of the top-of-the-range Isuzu KB300 edging close to 600 grand, the KB250 makes a more affordable ‘middle management’ alternative while still retaining a decent level of power, comfort and styling appeal.
That X-Rider package gives it the look of a more upmarket double cab with its black bumper guard with built-in foglights, tubular side steps and black sports bar with X-Rider logos, and blacked-out B pillars. Diamond-cut 18” alloys shod with low-profile 255/50 Grabber AT all-terrain tyres complete a makeover that gives this KB good street cred in a status-conscious market segment.
The seats are leather and have X-Rider logos on the front head restraint. A red X on the door trims, and red contrast stitching in the cabin, is complemented by piano black trim in various places. It all gives the cabin a smarter and sportier feel, and helps take attention away from the Isuzu’s rather plasticky dashboard.
This family 4x4 has a roomy cabin with stretch-out room for four adults - five at a bit of a squeeze - and there’s a reasonable amount of oddments space too.
As per its ‘middle management’ status the KB250 X-Rider gets an old-school radio/CD audio system without a touchscreen, and while it has Bluetooth phone pairing there are no USB ports.
But what it lacks in high-tech style it makes up for in user-friendliness: selecting and storing radio stations with the old-style buttons is simpler than with many of the fancy new touchscreen systems.
The onboard computer is a basic one too, accessed by pressing the odometer stalk.
One bugbear that Isuzu will hopefully fix with the next-generation KB is the lack of reach-adjustment for the steering column, which can be set for height only. The fixed reach means that longer-legged drivers tend to drive with their knees pressed up to the dash.
Other than that, standard kit is reasonable in this middle-spec KB and includes remote keyless entry, audio controls on the steering wheel, air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, and projector headlights with daytime running lights.
ABS Brakes, stability control and dual front airbags compose the safety package, though there are no side and curtain airbags as in the more expensive KB300.
Under the bonnet is a 100kW/320Nm 2.5-litre turbodiesel which, if you scroll down to the comparison list at the end of this article, has distinctly modest power and torque compared to rivals like the Ranger and Hilux.
The real-world driving experience confirms that this five-speed manual Isuzu doesn’t exactly deliver a blaze of high-performance glory. The 2.5 diesel delivers respectable open-road pace where it has good cruiseability and smoothness, but in stop-start town driving it sometimes gets stuck in the dreaded turbo-lag zone. This can be avoided by building some revs before dropping the clutch, but it does take some concentration to keep this Isuzu in the power band.
Most caravanners will likely rather opt for the 3--litre version, but the KB250 does come standard with a tow hitch and a 2100kg (braked trailer) towing capacity.
The 2.5 engine’s also relatively agricultural-sounding at lower rpm and without a bit of wind whoosh to smooth out the clatter. Once cruising, it quietens down considerably.
There’s enough grunt here to make this KB a respectable adventure vehicle, and there’s a low range gear to help you safely crawl through the slow-and-steady sections.
Our test vehicle averaged a decent if not excellent fuel consumption of 10.3 litres per 100km.
As an adventure vehicle this Isuzu makes the grade with its tough ladder-frame chassis, elevated ride height, and all-wheel drive capability. Shifting from 2wd to 4wd is done on the fly at the twist of a knob, and there’s also a rear diff lock to help you hustle through the roughest parts of the bushveld.
VERDICT
Isuzu’s KB is popular for its ruggedness and practicality, and the stylish X-Rider package gives it some posing power on top of that. If the cost of a KB300 is a hurdle too high, this KB250 is an alluring alternative at nearly 120 grand less.
It has great offroading ability, acceptable power if you don’t plan to do a lot of towing, and a reasonable hitlist of comfort features.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road-tests/tested-isuzus-x-rider-lays-on-style-and-value-15634311
The KB250 X-Rider double cab was first introduced in 2016 as a limited edition, but due to its popularity Isuzu decided to bring it back as a standard model, in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises.
On test here is the KB250 X-Rider Double Cab 4x4, priced at R454 100, which includes a five-year/120 000km warranty with roadside assistance, and a five-year/90 000km service plan.
With the price of the top-of-the-range Isuzu KB300 edging close to 600 grand, the KB250 makes a more affordable ‘middle management’ alternative while still retaining a decent level of power, comfort and styling appeal.
That X-Rider package gives it the look of a more upmarket double cab with its black bumper guard with built-in foglights, tubular side steps and black sports bar with X-Rider logos, and blacked-out B pillars. Diamond-cut 18” alloys shod with low-profile 255/50 Grabber AT all-terrain tyres complete a makeover that gives this KB good street cred in a status-conscious market segment.
The seats are leather and have X-Rider logos on the front head restraint. A red X on the door trims, and red contrast stitching in the cabin, is complemented by piano black trim in various places. It all gives the cabin a smarter and sportier feel, and helps take attention away from the Isuzu’s rather plasticky dashboard.
This family 4x4 has a roomy cabin with stretch-out room for four adults - five at a bit of a squeeze - and there’s a reasonable amount of oddments space too.
As per its ‘middle management’ status the KB250 X-Rider gets an old-school radio/CD audio system without a touchscreen, and while it has Bluetooth phone pairing there are no USB ports.
But what it lacks in high-tech style it makes up for in user-friendliness: selecting and storing radio stations with the old-style buttons is simpler than with many of the fancy new touchscreen systems.
The onboard computer is a basic one too, accessed by pressing the odometer stalk.
One bugbear that Isuzu will hopefully fix with the next-generation KB is the lack of reach-adjustment for the steering column, which can be set for height only. The fixed reach means that longer-legged drivers tend to drive with their knees pressed up to the dash.
Other than that, standard kit is reasonable in this middle-spec KB and includes remote keyless entry, audio controls on the steering wheel, air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, and projector headlights with daytime running lights.
ABS Brakes, stability control and dual front airbags compose the safety package, though there are no side and curtain airbags as in the more expensive KB300.
Under the bonnet is a 100kW/320Nm 2.5-litre turbodiesel which, if you scroll down to the comparison list at the end of this article, has distinctly modest power and torque compared to rivals like the Ranger and Hilux.
The real-world driving experience confirms that this five-speed manual Isuzu doesn’t exactly deliver a blaze of high-performance glory. The 2.5 diesel delivers respectable open-road pace where it has good cruiseability and smoothness, but in stop-start town driving it sometimes gets stuck in the dreaded turbo-lag zone. This can be avoided by building some revs before dropping the clutch, but it does take some concentration to keep this Isuzu in the power band.
Most caravanners will likely rather opt for the 3--litre version, but the KB250 does come standard with a tow hitch and a 2100kg (braked trailer) towing capacity.
The 2.5 engine’s also relatively agricultural-sounding at lower rpm and without a bit of wind whoosh to smooth out the clatter. Once cruising, it quietens down considerably.
There’s enough grunt here to make this KB a respectable adventure vehicle, and there’s a low range gear to help you safely crawl through the slow-and-steady sections.
Our test vehicle averaged a decent if not excellent fuel consumption of 10.3 litres per 100km.
As an adventure vehicle this Isuzu makes the grade with its tough ladder-frame chassis, elevated ride height, and all-wheel drive capability. Shifting from 2wd to 4wd is done on the fly at the twist of a knob, and there’s also a rear diff lock to help you hustle through the roughest parts of the bushveld.
VERDICT
Isuzu’s KB is popular for its ruggedness and practicality, and the stylish X-Rider package gives it some posing power on top of that. If the cost of a KB300 is a hurdle too high, this KB250 is an alluring alternative at nearly 120 grand less.
It has great offroading ability, acceptable power if you don’t plan to do a lot of towing, and a reasonable hitlist of comfort features.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road-tests/tested-isuzus-x-rider-lays-on-style-and-value-15634311
FiestaST
Honorary Master
CarTell.tv review of the 2018 D-Max
[video=youtube_share;OQllj-JyDV8]http://youtu.be/OQllj-JyDV8[/video]
[video=youtube_share;OQllj-JyDV8]http://youtu.be/OQllj-JyDV8[/video]
The 250 4x4 Double Cab would be my preferrence if I had to buy another Isuzu, mostly because I drive like a farmer so don't need the speed and the 250 is a tried and tested motor unlike the 300 which in my experience and from what I have heard from my mechanic hasn't shown the endurance of the older motor models, in other words hasn't been the motor that easily gets to 500000km.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
How far back does the legacy of that 250 motor come from?
What is a "good" mileage from that motor, maybe 500k kilos onwards?
Maybe less but I think the half million km mark is a measure that the 250 can acclaim to.
But it must also get there with minor mechanical issues, regular servicing basically.
Would need to research the history of the 250 to answer you. There are other smaller Isuzu diesel motors that have made their mark too, 200 models etc.
My Uncle had the 280Kb, he sold that bakkie with over 500000km on the clock, had never opened the motor, just regular servicing. It did unfortunately have lots of rust though.
My thinking in regards to CC ratings with the Isuzu and what to buy, the 250 speaks for itself, the 300 is great but I would not be happy owning it out of warranty and when it gets to around the 200000km mark.
When Isuzu comes out with a twin turbo 250 or perhaps reintroduces the old 280 they were famous for I will rather stick with what I have. Toyota are doing brilliantly with their 2.8 Sales and I think Isuzu missed the boat here when they were the leaders in that particular CC range.
One reads about the 1.9 Diesel motor from Isuzu but I think it cannot be released here due to the lack of Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel, probably the same with the twin turbo 250 too, its a fuel issue I think. Hence why Isuzu havent changed their 250 and 300 lineup. While both motors are fine and have a track record, I suppose as a consumer you look for a change but why fix what isn't broken, notably so with the 250 motor.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Thanks for the insight.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Shot for the thread name change!
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Motoring Australia review of the 2018 D-MAX (KB)
[video=youtube_share;x7wJoGRWu6M]https://youtu.be/x7wJoGRWu6M[/video]
[video=youtube_share;x7wJoGRWu6M]https://youtu.be/x7wJoGRWu6M[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MotorMatters review of the KB 300D-Teq D/Cab 4x4 LX Auto
[video=youtube_share;_SFPl14wnS8]https://youtu.be/_SFPl14wnS8[/video]
[video=youtube_share;_SFPl14wnS8]https://youtu.be/_SFPl14wnS8[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Isuzu hits 40-year manufacturing milestone in South Africa!
Isuzu Motors South Africa says it has hit a 40-year manufacturing milestone in South Africa, with the very first locally built Isuzu-badged bakkie having rolled off the production line way back in 1978.
Since then, more than 600 000 examples (including the modern KB) have been produced in South Africa.
Back in 1978, the Kempston Road plant in Port Elizabeth built its very first Isuzu-badged bakkie. This initial model was launched at a price of a R3 485 if the buyer opted for the 1,6-litre petrol engine or R4 295 if they preferred the 2,0-litre diesel unit.
Of course, the story started a little earlier, in the early 1970s, with the launch of the Chevrolet LUV (light utility vehicle), which was imported from Japan. Local production of this vehicle commenced in 1972, but the Isuzu badge (as well as the KB moniker) was applied only when the LUV was facelifted in the late 1970s.
“Over the years, Isuzu vehicle assembly experienced many changes. We started production at the Kempston Road plant where we produced five generations and moved to the more modern Struandale plant when we started to build the sixth generation,” said Johan Vermeulen, Isuzu Motors SA executive for manufacturing and supply chain.
“With the introduction of modern technology, automation and lean manufacturing processes into automotive manufacturing, we were able to continuously improve efficiencies and quality of our products. Today, six generations later, our modern manufacturing processes and constant upskilling of labour, have made Isuzu bakkies one of South Africa’s favourites,” Vermeulen added.
The local arm of the Japanese automaker says its bakkie was the first in South Africa to feature rack-and-pinion steering and independent front suspension, while in the 1990s the brand was the first to introduce double-cabs locally.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/isuzu-hits-40-year-manufacturing-milestone-south-africa/
Isuzu Motors South Africa says it has hit a 40-year manufacturing milestone in South Africa, with the very first locally built Isuzu-badged bakkie having rolled off the production line way back in 1978.
Since then, more than 600 000 examples (including the modern KB) have been produced in South Africa.
Back in 1978, the Kempston Road plant in Port Elizabeth built its very first Isuzu-badged bakkie. This initial model was launched at a price of a R3 485 if the buyer opted for the 1,6-litre petrol engine or R4 295 if they preferred the 2,0-litre diesel unit.
Of course, the story started a little earlier, in the early 1970s, with the launch of the Chevrolet LUV (light utility vehicle), which was imported from Japan. Local production of this vehicle commenced in 1972, but the Isuzu badge (as well as the KB moniker) was applied only when the LUV was facelifted in the late 1970s.
“Over the years, Isuzu vehicle assembly experienced many changes. We started production at the Kempston Road plant where we produced five generations and moved to the more modern Struandale plant when we started to build the sixth generation,” said Johan Vermeulen, Isuzu Motors SA executive for manufacturing and supply chain.
“With the introduction of modern technology, automation and lean manufacturing processes into automotive manufacturing, we were able to continuously improve efficiencies and quality of our products. Today, six generations later, our modern manufacturing processes and constant upskilling of labour, have made Isuzu bakkies one of South Africa’s favourites,” Vermeulen added.
The local arm of the Japanese automaker says its bakkie was the first in South Africa to feature rack-and-pinion steering and independent front suspension, while in the 1990s the brand was the first to introduce double-cabs locally.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/isuzu-hits-40-year-manufacturing-milestone-south-africa/
joshuatree
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