Coming just over a year after receiving more torque, a choice of a six-speed manual or similar ratio automatic gearbox and extra creature comforts, Isuzu Ute Australia has upped the ante further by expanding the model range to 23, with the highlight inclusion being a 4x2 variant for the top spec LS-T Crew Cab.

Available only with the automatic ‘box and priced some $8 000 (R73 921) less than the 4x4, the 4x2 joins its four-wheel drive sibling in receiving 18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded interior materials lifted from the MU-X, roof rails, perforated leather seats with polyurethane leatherette side bolsters, chrome and gloss black dashboard and door inserts, a new key fob and satellite navigation.

Other models have also gone underneath the knife with crew cab versions of the base SX, LS-U and aforementioned LS-T benefitting from a new three-leaf rear suspension setup claimed to improve the ride, comfort and handling.

In addition, the mid-range LS-M and LS-U join the LS-T in featuring three 2.1A USB ports, while GVM has been improved by 100 kg on the chassis cab SX single cab models to 2 950 kg for the 4x2 and 3 050 kg for the 4x4.

Standard fare on all models though is a reverse camera, while Trailer Sway Control is included on all but 4x4 chassis cab SX derivatives. Rounding off the changes are three new colours; Graphite Grey Metallic, Cobalt Blue Mica and Magnetic Red Mica. No modifications have taken place up front where the 3.0-litre D-TEQ turbodiesel engine continues to produce 130 kW and 430 Nm of torque.

Having confirmed the arrival of the MU-X in the second quarter of this year and with no “new” model slated to arrive until at least 2020, it would be interesting to see whether the newly formed Isuzu South Africa would introduce some of the D-Max’s upgrades to local KB models in due course.

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CHASSIS SINGE CAB

SPACE CAB 

CHASSIS CREW CAB

CREW CAB