ISUZU UPDATE All-new SA-built D-Max in in development, current range tweaked
Isuzu Tuesday hosted a lockdown-style post-lockdown online media conference. The Port Elizabeth bakkie maker revealed a few more details about its forthcoming all-new D-Max bakkie. It outlined several running changes to its current pickup and SUV range too.
Described as a giant step forward for Isuzu, the new bakkie will bring state of the art tech to enhance every aspect. “We are flat out engineering and durability testing the upcoming next generation,” veteran Isuzu suit Dominic Rimmer explained. The new D-Max will be built in PE, where intensive engineering and testing is a key part of local development.
South African engineered
“Our engineers ensure that all aspects of every Isuzu are ready for South Africa. “From the load box and tailgate, to dust sealing and suspension and all terrain tyres. “There’s a separate focus on accessories — canopies, roll bars and nudge bars.
“This work continues well into the product’s lifecycle as part of our continuous improvement philosophy,” Rimmer elaborated. “Our aim is to engineer vehicles capable of meeting and exceeding customer expectations.”
Looking ahead, Rimmer admitted that lockdown has slowed progress. “We were preparing to launch in 2021. “Then lockdown delayed plans. “Still, we are full steam ahead.
“We have seven installation models here to prepare the line. “Prototypes are working flat out again as we fettle the new one for local conditions.”
Existing Isuzu model enhancements
Isuzu went onto reiterate current model enhancements. Special edition models have helped Isuzu exceed all sales expectations. Isuzu has now added a new 3 litre Double Cab X-Rider exclusively with a new 6-speed automatic. In typical X-Rider style, it gets the black treatment to the grill complete with a red Isuzu badge, a black bumper and black or diamond cut 18-inch wheel options.
Add black side steps, roof rails and Sport bar, and a lockable tailgate with rear view camera and a 3.5-tonne tow bar. Inside are an 8-inch infotainment, red-stitched black leather and multifunction steering piano black finishes. It’s all yours for just R551K. Auto has one on test. Watch for it soon!
The rest of the D-MAX model range gets luxury cosmetic changes including a new all-black interior and fresh badging. 3-litre LX and LE Plus models get brake override and 4x2s now come with a tow bar. LE models have been repositioned to better suit fleet owner needs versus their obvious rivals.
MU-X TWEAKED TOO
Isuzu’s mu-X 7-seater SUV also has a new look. There’s a fresh piano black and chrome grille and a new bumper. Add slick new 18-inch wheels and black running boards. Add soft new leather trim and piano black with LED ambient lighting strips inside. Plus all the space and connectivity you could ever wish for. The 3-litre 6-speed auto comes in 4×4 at R643K, or pay R712K for the 4×4.
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