HOT OFF THE press PRITESH RUTHUN THERE’S no arguing that the X-Rider nameplate has fast established itself as a popular model within the Isuzu D-MAX line-up, initially only offered with the 2.5-litre high-output turbodiesel engine. This year, though, Isuzu is taking things further with the introduction of a special edition D-MAX 3.0 TD Double Cab X-Rider Automatic model. MAKINGS OF GREATNESS “The X-Rider nameplate, which was first introduced in South Africa as a limited edition model in 2016, has been a great success for us. Until now we have only offered the X-Rider as a midrange vehicle available with the 100kW 2.5 litre engine,” says Dominic Rimmer, Executive, Technical Services at Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSA). “Based on the popularity of the X-Rider, we felt it would make sense to match this nameplate with our most powerful engine, while retaining the attributes which make the X-Rider so popular. The 3 litre X-Rider has an imposing presence on the road with a rugged and sporty look which sets it apart from regular D-MAX models.” BUILT TO LAST The 3.0 X-Rider Automatic is powered by the Japanese brand’s familiar four-cylinder 130kW turbo diesel engine from Isuzu. Matched with a six-speed automatic gearbox, maximum power output is reached at a low 3600rpm,
with maximum torque of 380Nm achieved between 1800 and 2800rpm. According to official figures, it will sip 50ppm at a rate of 7.5l/100km in a combined cycle. The X-Rider comes standard with black roof rails, black sports bar with Red X-Rider logo, black running boards, 20cm AX2 Radio with multifunction colour touch screen, black tailgate handle with rearview camera, and a 3.5 ton tow bar. The bakkie’s seats are covered in black partial leather with red stitching and it is available in just three colours; Summit White, Switchblade Silver, Pull Me Over Red. Nice. The vehicle rides on standard 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels and all-terrain tyres. (Black alloy wheels are available as a no-cost option.) PRICED TO SELL The 3.0 TD Double Cab X-Rider Automatic slots in below the standard 3.0 Auto LX in the greater D-MAX line-up. This is great news for motorists who like the X-Rider look but want the benefit of the added pulling power of the more powerful four cylinder three litre engine. Pricing for the special edition D-MAX 3.0 TD Double Cab X-Rider Auto starts at R551 100 and it comes with a five-year/120 000km warranty and a fiveyear/90 000km Service Plan as standard. ◆ For more information or to secure a test drive see www.isuzu.co.za.
