New Isuzu D-Max X-Rider for South Africa – Specifications

Isuzu has brought back the X-Rider nameplate to its popular D-Max bakkie, with these models to arrive in showrooms soon and assume the mid-range position in the 24-strong bakkie line-up.

Intended to be the most stylish options at the more affordable end of the range, the X-Rider variants are based on the D-Max 1.9Ddi LS and are exclusively sold in double-cab guise, with 4×2 and 4×4, as well as automatic and manual gearboxes on offer.

Everything new on the X-Rider

On the cosmetic front, the new D-Max X-Rider derivatives gain all-round LED lights, a gloss black grille with red “Isuzu” lettering, “X-Rider” badging on the doors and tailgate, a black “Isuzu” tailgate decal, dark grey roof rails, unique 18-inch alloy wheels with red “Isuzu” lettering on black centre caps, and black accents on the door handles, B-pillars, side-mirror covers, tailgate handle, and curved sports bar.

The exterior is available in four colours only, namely Islay Gray, Mercury Silver (from April 2024), Red Spinel, and Splash White.

Inside, the beautifying continues with leather seats wearing red contrast stitching and embroidered “X” logos, PVC leather door trims with red needlework, a red divider between the glove compartment and dashboard, and red accents in the door materials, gearshift boot, and park-brake sheath.

It is also the only D-Max to feature dark interior surfaces with a matching headliner, complemented by the special-edition rubber floormats.

All versions of the X-Rider come standard with cruise control, a 7-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, Wi-Fi compatibility, a rear USB port, rear park assist sensors, and a reverse camera.

They boast a total of seven airbags, too, as well as active safety systems such as ABS with brake assist, electronic stability control with traction control, hill-start and descent assist, and trailer sway control.

Furthermore, the new double cabs all have a 1.9-litre, turbo-diesel motor bolted to the frame producing 110kW and 350Nm.

Depending on the model, the Isuzu employs a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, and buyers have a choice between a rear-wheel-drive powertrain or a shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system. It’s worth noting that the 4×4 can only be bought with the auto-box.

Fuel consumption for the 1.9-litre D-Max ranges between 7.3-7.6l/100km, and each variant supports a one-tonne payload capacity and a maximum 2,100kg towing potential.