By Malusi Msomi

ISUZU Motors South Africa has unveiled the X-Rider Black, a limited-edition version of the D-MAX double cab. This exclusive model adds a more distinctive look to the existing X-Rider range and will be produced in very limited numbers.

Only 150 units of the X-Rider Black will be built at ISUZU’s Struandale plant in Gqeberha during 2025. Each vehicle will be individually numbered, with a special plaque fitted on the left inner fender to mark its exclusivity.

Design and styling

As the name suggests, the X-Rider Black features an all-black theme. It is the only X-Rider variant available in Onyx Black. Other key design details include 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels with red ISUZU lettering, a tubular black sports bar with a laser-cut red X emblem, and patterned body decals. Gun Metallic accents on the front fascia and grille surround add to the premium appearance, while bold red ISUZU badging on the grille, LED headlights and fog lamps complete the look.

The black theme extends to the mirrors, door handles, B-pillars and tailgate handle. Roof rails are standard, allowing for the fitment of roof racks when needed.

Inside, the X-Rider Black carries over the black-and-red interior design theme from other X-Rider models. There are leather seats with red stitching and X logos on the headrests, red detailing on the dashboard and door handles, and piano black trim finishes. The steering wheel, gear shift and parking brake also feature red stitching.

Features and safety

Standard equipment includes cruise control, a seven-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, Wi-Fi capability, a rear USB port, rear park assist and a reverse camera. Safety features include ABS with Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control (on 4×4 models). Multiple airbags are fitted, including driver and passenger, side, curtain and a driver’s knee airbag.

Engine and performance

The X-Rider Black uses ISUZU’s 1.9-litre Ddi turbodiesel engine producing 110 kW and 350 Nm, paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. A 4×4 version is available with shift-on-the-fly engagement. All models come fitted with General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres and have a wading depth of 800 mm. A towbar is standard, and the towing capacity is rated at 2.1 tons.

Pricing

• 1.9 Ddi D/Cab HR X-RIDER BLACK: R664,100
• 1.9 Ddi D/Cab HR X-RIDER BLACK AT: R685,600
• 1.9 Ddi D/Cab 4×4 X-RIDER BLACK AT: R770,400

The X-Rider Black comes with ISUZU’s five-year/90 000 km service plan, five-year/120 000 km warranty, roadside assistance and anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km or 12 months.