The Isuzu D-Max X-Rider model perfectly balances rugged capability and everyday practicality, with the bonus of looking great. After spending two weeks with this bakkie on everything from school runs to off-road adventures, here are 10 reasons we think it's a great Isuzu bakkie to own.
10. Styling that turns heads without trying too hard
The X-Rider makes a statement with its glossy black grille featuring bold red lettering, sports bar, and 18-inch diamond-cut wheels with red centre caps. Standard LED lighting provides excellent visibility while giving the bakkie a premium light signature at night. It's purposeful without being pretentious.
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2. It's a real value proposition
Starting at R673 800, the X-Rider delivers 90% of the flagship model's features at about 80% of the price. In today's market, where comparable double cabs easily push past R900K, this value proposition becomes increasingly attractive for budget-conscious buyers wanting maximum Japanese bakkie for their buck. Read our full X-Rider review.
3. A surprisingly balanced 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine
Don't judge this engine by its modest displacement. With 110kW and 350Nm, this smooth operator delivers impressive real-world performance without the thirst of larger engines. During testing, it returned around 7.8 L/100 km on highways and 9.7 L/100 km in urban driving.
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4. Interior finishes that feel 100% like a leisure bakkie
The X-Rider's cabin sheds Isuzu's utilitarian past with red-stitched leather seats and quality touch points where it matters. The red and black theme adds sporty character without being overbearing, while the reach and rake adjustable steering wheel ensures drivers of all sizes find their sweet spot behind the wheel.
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5. Practical storage solutions
The thoughtful interior includes a clever double glovebox, dashboard storage, generous door bins, perfectly positioned cupholders, and a wide armrest storage that swallows surprising amounts of everyday items.
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6. It can handle our (dirtier) kind of diesel
The D-Max's tried-and-tested engine design handles variable South African fuel quality without complaint. Unlike competitors with finicky emissions systems, it won't throw warning lights or enter limp mode when you're forced to fill up with questionable diesel at remote stations. This real-world advantage means more reliable operation on cross-border trips or rural adventures where premium fuel isn't guaranteed.
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7. Easy-to-use tech for fuss-free infotainment
The 7.0-inch infotainment system with easy-to-connect-to wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay focuses on functionality over flashiness. The responsive interface, clear reverse camera, and straightforward controls prioritise usability rather than overwhelming you with unnecessary features.
8. Proudly South African for South African road conditions
Built in Port Elizabeth by people who understand our unique driving environments, the D-Max benefits from local suspension tuning that handles everything from urban potholes to washboard farm roads. Local production always means better parts availability and reasonable repair costs than fully imported rivals.
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9. It's full of family-friendly features
ISOfix child seat mounts make school runs straightforward, while the elevated seating gives kids a better view.
Rear passengers enjoy their own USB port—a practicality that makes daily life easier and teenagers less likely to moan. At the same time, the leather upholstery resists soft serve and Big Mac messes, and the protective rubber floor mats can just be shaken out.. The rear bench is spacious enough for tall adults.
10. Affordable ownership costs
The D-Max offers one of its class's most competitive warranty packages (5-year/120 000 km) and a standard 5-year/90,000 km service plan. With 15 000 km service intervals – compared to 10 000 km for Hilux and others – you'll spend less time at the dealership and more on the road.
