Initially part of the X-Rider line-up but discontinued when focused shifted towards the double cab, the return of the Extended Cab, based on the automaker’s website, brings the locally assembled D-Max X-Rider range to three following the inclusion of the four-wheel-drive in October 2017, and once again sees the application of a series of cosmetic tweaks both inside and out to the entry-level D-Max Hi-Rider.
Like the double cab, the X-Rider Extended Cab’s exterior add-ons consist of 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels wrapped in General Grabber 255/50 all-terrain rubber with a red ISUZU centre cap, a blacked-out B-pillar, black cladding on the front bumper with a prominent red ISUZU badge, black door handles and mirrors, black X-Rider branded sports bar and side steps, X-Rider decals on the doors and projector type headlights with daytime running LEDs.
Inside, the X-Rider mirrors the H-Rider but adds a leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel with red stitching and audio controls, leather seats with red X-Rider embossed headrests, piano key black inserts around the air vents and audio system, piano key black door accents with red X motifs and red stitching on the gear lever boot.
Aside from the inclusion of electric mirrors and a tow bar, the X-Rider’s range of standard features is carried over from the Hi-Rider and consists of a two-speaker sound system with Bluetooth and USB, tilt adjustable steering column, electric windows with one-touch function for the driver, keyless entry, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and BAS, ESC and Hill Start Assist, Traction Control and Hill Descent Control.
No changes have also taken place up front where, like the double cab, motivation comes from the stalwart 2.5-litre D-TEQ turbodiesel engine that produces 100 kW and 320 N.m of torque. Unlike the double cab though, the Extended Cab is only outfitted with rear-wheel-drive, but retains the five-speed manual gearbox and further adds a rear diff-lock as standard. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.6 L/100 km.
Priced at R400 500, a hike of R37 100 over the H-Rider, the Extended Cab X-Rider’s sticker also includes a five year/120 000 km warranty and a five year/90 000 km service plan.
