This week saw the launch of the new Isuzu D-Max Auto, and I was fortunate to attend the launch in the beautiful Mother City (Cape Town). The D-Max 250 Auto range is Isuzu’s response to the growing demand for automatic gearboxes, and they did so well by introducing five new models. Here’s what went down.
The Smooth Operator
Headlining the expanded product portfolio is the eye-catching, lifestyle-oriented Isuzu D-MAX 250 X-Rider, which is now available in a five-speed automatic transmission for the first time. I call the X-Rider “The Smooth Operator” after having driven it up Chapman’s Peak, on the winding Fransschoek Pass and the gravel roads of Overberg. The drive was consistently smooth and quiet. The vehicle also complements the existing five-speed manual derivatives, available in two and four-wheel drive, that has been extremely popular in South Africa.
Legendary reliability, greater comfort and ease of use
As crucial models in the Double Cab line-up, Isuzu has also introduced the five-speed automatic transmission to the mid-range D-MAX 250 LE, as well as the popular workhorse-oriented D-MAX 250 Hi-Ride model. The gearbox is mated to the trusted 100 kW/320 Nm 2.5-litre intercooled turbodiesel engine.
The Hi-Ride is also available with a six-speed automatic transmission derivative, powered by Isuzu’s dependable 3.0-Litre four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel engine, which produces 130 kW of power and 380 Nm of torque.
As the most affordable offering amongst the newly introduced models, the entry-level D-MAX 250 Hi-Ride Auto is offered in extended cab form.
Also new to the Double Cab range in a Hi-Ride trim-level is the addition of a 3.0-Litre automatic model matched with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing
| D-MAX 250 HO EXTENDED CAB HI-RIDE AUTO | R 403,200.00 |
| D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB HI-RIDE AUTO | R 435,300.00 |
| D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB LE AUTO | R 459,000.00 |
| D-MAX 300 DOUBLE CAB HI-RIDE AUTO | R 464,100.00 |
| D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB X-RIDER AUTO | R 474,700.00 |
All Isuzu D-MAX models come standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000 km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km/12 months. Extended cover can be purchased for Roadside Assistance, Service Plans and Maintenance Plans
