Driven in Hoedspruit: the new Isuzu KB

Posted on 28 March 2013

South Africans have been expecting the sixth generation Isuzu KB for nearly a decade and after giving the new 4×4 a workout in Hoedspruit, I’d say it’s been well worth the wait.

For South Africans

Isuzu KB on launch in Hoedspruit

Isuzu KB on launch in Hoedspruit

The Isuzu team have strived to create a bigger-load bakkie meeting the needs of all South Africans and have issued out no less than 21 variations of the new Isuzu KB with single cab, extended cab and double cab options, seven of which are petrol-powered and three turbodiesel vehicles. All models cater for our unique conditions such as dust, utility needs, leisure activities and road conditions (most probably the ever-resistant potholes).

The team was also really excited about the heavy duty towbar built into the body of the Isuzu as an optional extra, which can pull 3.5 tons (however, we didn’t get to give it a proper test).

It can be used as the die-hard utility vehicle or a beautiful leisure car for your family holiday and has been put through a total of four million km of test-driving. 

That’s 100 times around the world.

Sjoe.

Bigger and better?

Generally speaking, all models are bigger (260 mm longer, 60 mm wider and 60 mm taller) sleeker and more modernised than the 2004 model keeping up with rivals like the Ford Ranger, VW Amarok and the (now) more dated Toyota Hilux. They have also included an automatic diesel engine. However, they are not horribly enormous – you can still manoeuvre it into an urban parking lot and navigate narrow 4×4 trails, like the ones tested at Thorny Bush in Hoedspruit.

Isuzu KB on 4x4 course

Isuzu KB on 4x4 course

The Isuzu KB has retained its tough look, with performance to match, but has coupled this with more interior space, especially in the back of the double cab, easier access to the rear seats with better legroom and headroom than its predecessor. The dash looks very similar to the Chevrolet Trailblazer, but its a design that looks great and both cars belong to the same General Motors stable.

Isuzu Kb Interior

Isuzu Kb Interior

Off-road?

The 4×4 models performed really well on the off-road track conquering steep inclines, descents, sand and articulation exercises. The updated interior included a terrain control dial offering 2H, 4H and 4L and all LE and LX specification models feature a rear differential lock.

Through the windscreen of the new Isuzu KB on ascent

Through the windscreen of the new Isuzu KB on ascent

And tar?

The sixth generation Isuzu KB behaves just as well on the tar tracks as it boasts a better-insulated cabin for a quieter drive and uncompromising comfort.

The Isuzu team also boast that their newest model is best in its class when it comes to fuel efficiency at 7.7 litres/100km and low carbon emissions ranking 204g/km.

The new Isuzu KB: all grown up

It is a great leisure machine for family holidays that will can both tackle a 4×4 route like the Baviaanskloof pass and enjoys higher speeds without hassle. The models also feature Bluetooth for audio and cellular communication, climate control, and USB connectivity via a cable.

The new Isuzu KB is covered by a five year/120 000km warranty with roadside assistance and 12 month/15 000km service intervals (except on base models).

Accessories

There are plenty of accessories available and any Isuzu dealership should have a catalogue ready for you.

4×4 Mega World have also updated their products to include a new ARB winch bar. The bar comes with provision for fitting a winch, spotlights, radio arial mountings, hi-lift jack points and recessed indicators for optional fog lights.

4x4 Mega World ARB Isuzu KB

4x4 Mega World ARB Winch Bar for Isuzu KB

Available May 2013 (contact 011 454 2875 for more info).

VIDEO: Compiled by sister magazine Leisure Wheels

 

Pricing

When Isuzu launched their first KB model back in 1972 the asking price was R1725. Things are a little different these days with prices starting at R218 900 for a basic petrol model to R464 400 for the top of the range 4×4 double cab.

Single Cab Diesel

250 D-TEQ – R229 300

250 Fleetside D-TEQ – R242 700

250 Fleetside D-TEQ (Safety model) – R244 900

250 D-TEQ LE 4×4 – R315 700

250 D-TEQ LE – R274 800

300 D-TEQ LX – R311 700

300 D-TEQ LX 4×4 – R362 300

Single Cab Petrol

240 Base – R218 900

240 Fleetside – R233 700

240 Fleetside 4×4 – R258 500

240 LE – R253 200

Extended Cab Diesel

250 D-TEQ LE – R290 700

300 D-TEQ LX – R359 400

300 D-TEQ LX 4×4 – R412 300

Double Cab Diesel

250 D-TEQ LE – R363 200

250 D-TEQ LE 4×4 – R384 100

300 D-TEQ LX – R410 400

300 D-TEQ LX Auto – R423 400

300 D-TEQ LX 4×4 – R464 400

Double Cab Petrol

240 LE – R309 100

240 LE 4×4 – R380 200

 




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