Isuzu X-Rider shows its class – and X-factor
New utility vehicle smooth on tarred roads – and off
LAST year motoring enthusiasts were excited to hear that Isuzu was introducing an X-Rider to their KB range in the South African market.
Bakkie lovers could not wait to lay their hands on this beautiful yet comfortable all-rounder.
A limited 700 units were assembled but an outcry from fans soon led to the building of thousands more.
Today they continue to sell faster than anticipated, with South African consumers able to choose from 19 KB derivatives in three body types, with the latest addition to the range the KB 250 X-Rider 4x2 Double Cab.
On getting this vehicle to test drive recently, a quick Facebook post showing off the “Pull Me Over Red” model we were given had soon recorded more than 500 comments and views.
Such is the level of interest in this gorgeous beast.
Driving the X-Rider with its manual transmission is easy, as it handles like a dream. Even with a heavy load its power delivery means there is no sluggishness.
The vehicle is very restrained when it comes to fuel consumption. Isuzu claims a consumption figure of 7.7l/100 km, but I would put this at closer to 9.5l/100 km, although it does depend on driving style. These are some facts about it: ● Firstly I put it through its paces along the N2 between East London and Berlin – and it never disappointed. A second trip involved driving over East London dairy farms at Cove Rock.
Driving at speed on uneven dirt roads, it demonstrates great road handling and, when braking sharply, stopped with ease.
● Giving a lift to some workers down rural roads out near Kwelera, the Isuzu X-Rider understood what it had to do and did not grumble about the extra payload – I was able to maintain the speed I had been driving before the extra load. Despite being a 4x2, crossing river ravines to access some rural villages proved to be no challenge;
● Taking it on tarred roads at our speed limits, many sedans struggled to keep up; ● It corners nicely at speed; ● Of course, parking at shopping centres and malls, it turned heads;
BEACON BAY BORDER
● It has that “stand out” look that had many motorists stopping me to talk about it; and
● Luckily, East London experienced some 24 hours of serious rain last week, which came at a good time as I was able to take the bakkie on muddy rural roads, where it behaved really nicely.
Compared to other bakkies in its range like the Ford Ranger, and the new Toyota Hilux, the XRider is highly competent.
Driving at low gears while negotiating rough terrain, the Isuzu X-Rider completed every task perfectly.
However, at a starting price of R388 000, is it worth that?
Well, before I answer this question, let me talk about the interior.
It is beautifully decked out with comfortable leather upholstered seats with red trimming.
The headrest for both passenger and driver features X-Rider insignia, as does the steering wheel.
The seats also come standard with the height adjustment (power seat model).
The passenger seat also comes with forward/backward adjustment.
The back seat can take three passengers with seatbelts and head rests.
You can easily operate the standard built-in Isuzu radio from the steering-wheel and you can control the volume and rewind or fast forward tracks from a single CD slot.
However, the manufacturers could have improved on the manual control screen.
First impressions for any vehicle these days is the music and radio display screen. This vehicle deserves an LCD screen.
On the outside, the Isuzu XRider is fitted with all-terrain 18inch alloys. The wheels feature the red signature Isuzu caps and the front of the vehicle has that “look at me” Isuzu logo that gives it a sporty look, and says loudly: “I have arrived.”
The KB 250 X-Rider 4x2 Double Cab is powered by the brand’s proven “high output” 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine that delivers 100 kW and 320 Nm, with peak torque kicking in at just 1 800 rpm.
Oh and to answer that question – yes, the Isuzu X-Rider is worth the price!
● All Isuzu KB models are sold with a fully comprehensive, fiveyear/120 000km warranty and roadside assistance programme, a five-year/ unlimited mileage anti-corrosion warranty and a fiveyear/90 000km service plan.
Service intervals are 15 000km or 12 months for all derivatives.
CAMBRIDGE GONUBIE KIDD’S BEACH NAHOON MOUTH OLD SELBORNIAN TYPOS COUNTRY GOLFERS EAST LONDON GONUBIE INDUSTRIAL GOLF LEAGUE SAGES DUNCAN VILLAGE FA 2017 EAST LONDON CENTRAL LFA