2025 Isuzu D-Max X-Rider
The Isuzu D-Max X-Rider is a bakkie with an undeniable appeal, coming in at a price point that makes it a serious contender in the South African one-tonne bakkie market.
The X-Rider is a special edition bakkie based on the LS variant of the D-Max range, available in double-cab format only, with 4×2 and 4×4 options. It combines the bakkie’s famed utilitarian character with visual enhancements that set it apart from the bakkie it is based on.
A bold black grille with red Isuzu lettering, black mirror caps, and striking 18-inch alloy wheels give the X-Rider a proper presence on the road. “X-Rider” badging on the exterior and interior further emphasises its special-edition status.
Functional, But Ageing
Step inside, and the X-Rider’s cabin welcomes you with its simplicity and ergonomic design. While the layout is straightforward, its age becomes apparent when compared to competitors like the Ford Ranger. The cabin remains functional, with all controls within easy reach, ensuring a driver-friendly experience. Leather seats, complete with manual adjustment for forward/backward movement and height for the driver, add to the feel.
The infotainment system, though not cutting-edge, supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly, which is a significant convenience. However, as Isuzu prepares to launch an updated D-Max in 2025, we anticipate improvements in the multimedia interface to keep pace with modern expectations.
Compact Yet Capable
The D-Max X-Rider comes equipped with Isuzu’s smallest engine for the one-tonne bakkie segment in South Africa: a 1.9-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel. At its launch in 2022, this engine was a bold move, but Isuzu’s long-standing reputation for reliable and durable engines made it a calculated risk that paid off.
The 1.9-litre engine produces 110 kW of power and 350 Nm of torque, sending power to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission in the 4×2 model. While these figures may seem modest compared to larger engines, the 1.9-litre unit punches above its weight in real-world performance.
This engine offers smooth cruising capability, holding its own on highways and steep inclines despite the D-Max’s hefty 1 845 kg kerb weight. At 120 km/h on an uphill gradient, the bakkie demonstrates impressive stamina, thanks in part to the gearbox’s manual override setting, allowing drivers to drop down to fourth gear for optimal power delivery.
However, turbo lag is a noticeable drawback. Quick overtaking manoeuvres require foresight and a downshift or two to access the necessary torque. While this can be frustrating in dynamic driving situations, it’s worth noting that the engine’s overall refinement and reliability overshadow this minor flaw.
On long journeys, the D-Max X-Rider proves to be reasonably efficient, achieving an average fuel consumption of 10 L/100 km after over 2 000 km of mixed driving conditions. This makes it a viable option for both urban commuters and those venturing off the beaten path.
Pricing and Rivals
One of the X-Rider’s strongest selling points is its competitive pricing. At R667 100 for the 4×2 automatic variant, the bakkie comes with a comprehensive 5-year/90 000 km service plan and a 5-year/120 000 km warranty. Additionally, Isuzu includes a tonneau cover as standard, enhancing its practicality and value.
For those considering alternatives, here’s a quick comparison of similarly priced rivals:
- Toyota Hilux 2.4 GD-6 Raider 4×2 Auto: R633,200
- Ford Ranger 2.0 Single Turbo XLT 4×2 Auto: R648,600
- Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 GLS 4×2 Auto: R679,990
Why Choose the Isuzu D-Max X-Rider?
South African bakkie enthusiasts are spoiled for choice, with each model offering distinct strengths:
- The Ford Ranger is celebrated for its ride comfort and cutting-edge technology, earning its title as South Africa’s best-selling double cab.
- The Toyota Hilux is revered for its legendary reliability and resale value, making it a household name nationwide.
- On the other hand, the Isuzu D-Max is the trusted workhorse, known for its no-nonsense approach to bakkie ownership.
The X-Rider builds on this legacy by offering a touch of leisure and sophistication without compromising its core identity. The X-Rider strikes a perfect balance for buyers who want a bakkie that remains true to its rugged roots while providing modern conveniences. While it may not have the flashiest interior or the most powerful engine, it compensates with reliability, durability, and a price point that’s hard to ignore.
