X-Rider rides every wave

There is a general sentiment among South Africans that bakkies look the same. This sentiment is true to a certain degree. However, I believe that bakkies can be to out from the crowd. One such bakkie is the Isuzu X-Rider. Though the X-Rider belongs to the family of the KB, it has its distinctive identity that makes it stand out. For the week that it was under my care, the X-Rider has proven to be a capable bakkie for all functions, it ran farm errands, went to the shops and visited friends and family with ease.

Initially introduced as a limited edition a couple of years ago, the X-Rider grew in popularity as more and more bakkie loving South Africans demanded more.

The distinctive front grille gives the X-Rider a rather aggressive presence, it possesses the identity of a large bakkie whilst showing off its sporty character.

If you ever thought bakkies were boring, then think again, because this bakkie offers what many a bakkie do not, exclusive styling. The growing middle-class demands both lifestyle and workhorses, thus the X-Rider fits perfectly in that segment.

Made in South Africa for SA market and SADC region, the X-Rider popularity is growing, thanks to its unique commanding looks, ruggedness and overall lifestyle offering.

The X-Rider is a unique model, home-grown by the local team to meet local customer demands, said Dominic Rimmer, GM, Planning and Program Management at Isuzu South Africa

The Isuzu KB range is the third loved popular bakkie is the SA market after Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.

Driven by the 2.5 common rail direct turbodiesel, the X-Rider offers a great balance of power and torque at 100kW and 320Nm respectively. My only real gripe about the X-Rider is the fact that it is only available in manual guise. An automatic option would have been a big plus. I find more and more motorists have or are switching automatic cars as traffic is getting worse and worse especially in economic hubs such Gauteng and the Western Cape.

Back to the good stuff, not only is the X-Rider a sensible beautiful looking bakkie but is well equipped with modern tech to make life easier for the occupants. Features such a USB cord, Radio with Bluetooth connectivity are on offer. Our test model was the X-Rider 4×4 fitted with All-Terrain wheel that can make driver feel invincible on and off road.

I must say even though I have not been inside the X-Rider Black Edition, it looks beautiful on photos.