In the final months of 2024, we received the Isuzu D-Max 1.9 X-Rider to test as a long-term vehicle, through the summer and into the new year. Over three months and many assignments in and out of the city, we had the chance to explore its features and evaluate its performance. Let’s take a look at where the X-Rider fits in.
Building on the LS model, the X-Rider reintroduces the distinctive design cues that made the original 2016 version so popular. While it doesn’t feature mechanical upgrades, its aesthetic enhancements and strong road presence set it apart. Our colour coat? Spinel Red. Other options include Islay Grey, Splash White, and Mercury Silver (Look no further than a car for the most creative interpretations of the colour spectrum). the X-Rider’s bold black-and-red accents, gloss-black grille, and 18-inch alloy wheels complement the paint coat and make for a commanding ride. The interior mirrors the interior’s design language with dark leather seats, red X-Rider stitching, and subtle detailing on the dashboard and steering wheel.
The X-Rider has yet to be built with the 3,0L diesel engine available in Isuzu’s other D-Maxs. Instead, it draws power from a 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, which still churns out a healthy 110 kW and 350 N·m of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
The 4×4 version – our companion for the last few months – offers added off-road capability with a low-range transfer case and rear-locking differential. We spent a lot of time shuttling photographers and videographers to various locations outside of the city, and on the long stretches of gravel roads that are pretty much a given after an hour outside of Cape Town, the vehicle was steady and comfortable, while highway cruising remained smooth and confident.
Apart from the distinct design language, a selling point for the X-Rider is its competitive pricing in an ever-inflating market. Priced from R640 500 for the 4×2 manual and topping out at R740 700 for the 4×4 automatic, the X-Rider offers a stylish and practical option in the lifestyle bakkie market. While its competitors—like the Nissan Navara 2.5 Pro-2X, GWM P-Series LTD, and Toyota Hilux GR-S— bring varying strengths, the X-Rider delivers standout design and solid value for those seeking something different without stepping into premium price territory.
The X-Rider made a strong case for itself in the three months. In the next few instalments, we’ll provide more details on what the double-cab was tasked with and how it handled over a chaotic end to the working year and busy festive season.
Isuzu D-Max 1.9 X-Rider at a glance
- Price: R740 700
- Engine: 1.9-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel
- Transmission: six-speed automatic
- Power: 110 kW @ 3 600 r/min
- Torque: 350 N.m @ 1 800-2 600 r/min
- Fuel consumption: 7.6 L/100 km
- CO2 emissions: 199 g/km
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