If does not then visit your nearest Isuzu dealership and feed your eyes onto the new Isuzu KB 300 Double Cab- the extended version if you may.
Indeed this brand has been with us for the longest of the times and it keeps breaking boundaries.
The all new Isuzu bakkie is synonymous with hardwork; a tough machine required for hauling a heavy load (as we did), assisting on my farm in the North West or to move the supplies to and from your home.
As we put it to the test, one could tell it gives more than it’s predecessors. Lines tend to flow into one another along its flanks and its more curvaceous than its previous obtrusive, blocky design.
Its important figures are 130kW/380Nm from 1800-2800rpm, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. It’s fitted with 4WD Rotary Switch Control with a 2-speed transfer case.
There’s a rear-differential lock button below the facia, while modes can be shifted on the fly at speeds of up to 100km/h by toggling the switch along the gear lever. Combined fuel consumption is rated at a claimed 7.9-litres/100km from its 80-litre fuel tank.
Usually fuel figures are always debatable and depends on driving style but the KB300 is rather fuel efficient, especially with the high cost of fuel increasing every bloody day.
Gear shifting is easy and smooth (you’d swear you’re not driving a bakkie) and it has plenty of torque (380Nm) for any hard work needed. It also boast 3500kg towing capacity and 1133kg payload.
Interior features include integrated LED Daytime Running Lights, a rearview camera, 18″ alloys, keyless entry, leather seats and a touch-screen radio with navigation, mated with Bluetooth audio streaming capability.
It has a gear-shifter on the instrument cluster, an engine stop/start button. Other safety features include electronic stability control (ESC), with elements like brake assist, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution and anti-lock braking systems. The new double cab is fitted with six airbags.
Yes, one must agree the bakkie market has become competitive with the likes of Hilux, Mitsubishi Triton, Ford Ranger and of course top range Fiat Professional.
It has a 5 years/ 90 000km warranty.
It retails for R549 800
Verdict
Performance 1-10 (5)
Diesel 1-10 (5)
