GMSA leading the pack
Bakkie war hots up with three derivatives of Isuzu KB range hitting the road
THE bakkie war is hotting up with General Motors South Africa announcing more derivatives to its Isuzu KB range to compete against forthcoming new models from both Ford and Toyota.
The new Ranger is due to be launched next month and the Hilux bakkie is on the horizon, so in a bid not to lose sales to its competitors GMSA has added three derivatives to the range, bringing the tally of models to 18.
The Isuzu newcomers include an automatic 4x4 flagship model with features like an infotainment system, keyless entry, and start/stop technology.
GM said a number of other changes had been implemented on the sixth generation of the popular bakkie.
The most significant is the wholesale change to a significantly uprated version of the 2.5-litre DTEQ turbodiesel for Fleetside and LE models.
Each Isuzu KB is purpose-built for a clearly defined role in South Africa’s uniquely demanding market and tested to cope effortlessly with its particular application, the company says.
The flagship Isuzu KB300 LX 4x4 double cab is now equipped with the addition of a five-speed automatic transmission option. Other exterior features include: ý LED daytime running lights and LED technology in the rear lamps for improved visibility;
ý Class-leading payload and towing capacity:
ý Class-leading emissions and fuel consumption from tried and tested 3.0-litre turbodiesel:
ý Upmarket interior with keyless stop/start ignition – a segment first:
ý Touch-screen infotainment centre with integrated DVD, reverse camera and satellite navigation.
The new workhorse models, the extended-cab and double-cab Fleetside 4x2s have also been upgraded with 100kW/320Nm high-output 2.5litre common-rail/direct-injection turbodiesels with variable geometry turbocharger, which boasts class-leading consumption and emission. Other improvements are: ý Bluetooth-enabled sound system for easy phone integration;
ý Rugged, black plastic bumper/ valance designed in Isuzu’s school of hard knocks;
ý 16-inch wheels with 245/70 dual-purpose tyres;
ý Stability control for all but entry-level single cabs;
ý High-output 100kW/320Nm powerplant replacing low-output version across the range;
ý Height-adjustable steering added to the L-base models;
ý Cruise control operated from new, leather-clad steering wheel for LE-grade double cabs;
ý New cloth trim for LE and LX models.
All Isuzu KB models are sold with a fully comprehensive five-year/ 120 000km warranty and roadside assistance programme, a fiveyear/unlimited mileage anti-corrosion warranty, and a five-year/ 90 000km service plan.
Service intervals are 15 000km or a year for all derivatives.