Driven -Isuzu D-Max X-Rider
Quick Facts:
- Price: From R590 300
- Engine: 3.0-litre diesel engine
- Transmission: six-speed auto
- Power/Torque: 130kW/380Nm
As we prepare to set our eyes on the all-new D-Max, we spent time sampling the outgoing model in its X-Rider guise over a week.
The D-Max has been around for over (years) and the X-Rider we tested not only looked great but reminded us of why the D-Max sales have been soaring recently.
Kitted with X-Rider-badging and lettering, sports bar, tubular side steps and two-tone alloys on the exterior, a roller shutter and an overall good looking exterior, we think that the D-Max has been ageing like fine wine.
In the interior, that is where you start to see the age and just how much it needs to be updated. While everything is fuss-free, the eye could do with soft-touch materials, beautiful looking infotainment screens amongst the others. However, Apple car play/android auto is available on the model we tested. The seats are comfortable and have the X-rider embroidery in the headrests as well as the door inserts giving it a good look. Space is also comfortable for everyone in the cabin and we did not find anything to nitpick about.
In terms of the drive, The Isuzu D-Max X-Rider makes use of a 3.0-litre TD engine that is good for 130kw/380nm of torque and power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox. While power figures might seem a bit low for the engine displacement, we did not feel any lack. We took it for a drive to the Magoebaskloof mountains and I think what impressed us most was how frugal the 3.0-litre engine was, managing a return trip from Pretoria to Magoebaskloof, we averaged just over 8.3l/100kms which was something unbelievable. The traditional sound of the engine asp gave us nostalgia and while we hope that the all-new DMAX will be refined, this was appreciated in this certain model.
In terms of safety, The X-Rider is equipped with only 2 airbags but the rest of the safety equipment list looks impressive. ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist is also available
