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
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
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
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
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 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
