The Isuzu D-Max X-Rider Black, a limited-edition double cab 4×2 based on the popular 2.5-litre diesel D-Max, has been re-introduced to the South African market for another limited period.
Revealed inside the Isuzu vehicle assembly plant in Port Elizabeth, the X-Rider Black showed off its boldness with sheer je ne sais quoi as members of the media joined local business people and celebrities to get a glimpse of Isuzu’s manufacturing facilities and the exclusive X-Rider Black.
The X-Rider is painted exclusively in the Black Meet Kettle body colour, which gives this special model a distinctive appearance in conjunction with the extensive list of unique features incorporated in the standard X-Rider package, says Isuzu.
A fan favourite
A favourite with consumers, as well as the people who build it, the X-Rider Black has a head-turning bold and purposeful stance enhanced by blacked-out wheels and mat black accessories.
Traditionally known for its workhorse capabilities, the X-Rider Black demonstrates the versatility of the Isuzu light commercial vehicle range which has a strong presence in both the leisure and commercial segments of the market. Nandi Matomela, Product Communications Manager at Isuzu South Africa, says that Isuzu was one of the first bakkie brands to introduce double cabs in the early 90s and has since shown that an Isuzu bakkie is a perfect all-rounder.
Available only as a 4×2 double cab, the X-Rider Black is aimed squarely at the leisure market.
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Package deal
The X-Rider Black offers added value with an extensive list of standard features and accessories. The package includes a bold black front bumper guard, projector headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, as well as front fog lamps. Eye-catching 18-inch black alloy wheels with red Isuzu badges further enhance the dynamic stance of this model. The tyres are 255/60R18 All Terrain Tyres from General Tyre. The black theme continues with matt black roof rails, black side steps and a black sports bar. The X-Rider Black also comes with a factory fitted tonneau cover and a 2.1 tonne towbar.
The D-Max’s cabin gets the X-Rider treatment with standard black leather seats featuring red stitching on the bolsters and the “X-Rider” logo embroidered on the headrest. Red stitching is also used for the leather-trimmed steering wheel which has a red Isuzu badge. Piano black trim on the vents, radio and front console give the cabin a modern and sophisticated touch, with the same treatment used on the door trim inserts that incorporate a red “X” in keeping with the theme.
An eight-inch AX2 touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth for audio streaming and handsfree calling is available as standard.
Drive is taken care of by Isuzu’s popular 2.5 litre, four-cylinder, 16 valve high-pressure turbocharged diesel engine matted with a five-speed manual gearbox. Power remains unchanged at 100kW and 320Nm of torque; the latter available between 1800 and 2800rpm.
Fuel consumption is 7.7 L/100 km on the combined cycle, with 203 g/km of CO2 emissions.
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Safety features
The X-Rider Black has a high level of active and passive safety features which include Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), Brake-Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), driver and passenger airbags, and Side-Impact Protection Bars.
The Isuzu bakkie range comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000km/12 months. Extended cover can be purchased for Roadside Assistance, Service Plans and Maintenance Plans.
The X-Rider Black is priced at R462 000, including VAT.