Tag Archives: kb

Isuzu KB generation 6

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The new KB is here at last.

Its bigger.

Its bolder.

Image

But, is it better?

The new KB is 260mm longer – that’s more than 5% – than the previous model. It’s also 60mm wider (up 3%) and 60mm taller (up 3,5%).  This translates into an increase in interior space as well as a more space efficient load box. That’s good.

The top specification Isuzu KB LX models are available with a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission mated to the 3,0 litre D-TEQ diesel engine. Features include driver operated sequential shift as an alternative to full automatic shift and a torque converter lock-up clutch. That’s better.

The new Isuzu KB chassis is both longer and wider than the previous generation model in overall dimensions and has a longer wheelbase, up by 45mm on the previous model. Track on both the 4X2 and 4X4 models in increased by 50mm. Both of these increased dimensions improve ride and handling, overall vehicle stability and comfort. That’s better.

The driver is able to select from a number of 4X4 driving modes using the Terrain Command Dial. The 2 wheel drive to 4 wheel drive high ratio change can be implemented on the fly at speeds of up to 100km/h. The vehicle, as with all 4X4 vehicles, must be stopped to change to the extreme condition 4L (low-range) mode. This selection is also initiated via the Terrain Command Dial.

All LE and LX models, as well as the 4X4 Fleetside models, have a driver activated differential lock as standard equipment, operated by an easily accessed push-button switch. That’s better.

The engine range starts with the 2,4 litre petrol 16V DOHC engine available on the Base, Fleetside, and LE models. This multi point fuel injected engine produces maximum power of 112 kW with 233 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption for the combined cycle has been measured at 10,4 l/100km with CO2 emissions of 245 gm/km (4X2 models).

Next up in the engine range is the 2,5 litre low pressure turbo diesel engine available on the Base and Fleetside specifications. This engine provides 58 kW of power with 170 Nm of torque.

The latest generation 2.5 litre D-TEQ engine is available on Base, Fleetside, and LE specification levels and produces 85 kW of power with maximum torque of 280 Nm available from a low 1800 r/min.

The top engine in the new Isuzu KB range is the upgraded 3,0 litre D-TEQ engine that is offered on LX specification models and now has maximum power of 130 kW – up by 10 kW – with 380 Nm of torque. That’s good.

We hope to test the KB soon and will then give a full description and evaluation.

Prices:

DIESEL

Single Cab

Isuzu KB 250 D-Teq                                                            R229,300

Isuzu KB 250 Fleetside D-Teq                                         R242,700

Isuzu KB 250 Fleetside D-Teq (Safety)                       R244,900

Isuzu KB 250 LE 4×4                                                          R315,700

Isuzu KB 250 LE                                                                  R274,800

Isuzu KB 300 LX                                                                  R311,700

Isuzu KB 300 LX 4×4                                                         R362,300

 

Extended Cab

Isuzu KB 250 E/Cab LE                                                      R290,700

Isuzu KB 300 E/Cab LX                                                      R359,400

Isuzu KB 300 E/Cab LX 4×4                                              R412,300

Double Cab

Isuzu KB 250 Double Cab LE                                           R363,200

Isuzu KB 250 Double Cab LE 4×4                                   R384,100

Isuzu KB 300 Double Cab LX                                           R410,400

Isuzu KB 300 Double Cab LX Automatic                    R423,400

Isuzu KB 300 Double Cab LX 4×4                                   R464,400

PETROL

Single Cab

Isuzu KB 240 Base                                                              R218,900

Isuzu KB 240 Fleetside                                                     R233,700

Isuzu KB 240 Fleetside 4×4                                            R258,500

Isuzu KB 240 LE                                                                  R253,200

Double Cab

Isuzu KB 240 Double Cab LE                                           R309,100

Isuzu KB 240 Double Cab LE 4×4                                   R380,200

Service Plan 5yr/90,000km (Except on base models)

Warranty 5yr/120,000km

Isuzu KB72 250 D-TEQ 4×4 review

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Isuzu KB72 250 D-TEQ 4×4 – A double cab bakkie for all seasons. The KB72 is the culmination of the development of the KB series of bakkies. It’s economical, comfortable, very capable and well built.

At R350 400 (which includes accessories like 16” alloy rims, aluminium running boards etc. of R19 000 thrown in) it’s not cheap, but it is value for money compared to the competition. It ticks all the right boxes.

The 2.5 litre turbodiesel will get you to 100km/h after a leisurely 17.7 seconds and will get to it’s top speed of just over 140km/h, but not in a rush. GM claims fuel consumption of 9.3L/100km, but I got just over 11 L/100km. The engine produces 85kW at 3 600 rpm and 280Nm from 1 800 over a wide power band. I took a loaded KB72 over a few mountain passes and on the N2 and can confirm the almost effortless ease with which it performs.

Isuzu KB72 4x4

My wife commented that it was the best bakkie overall that she has travelled in recently, better than the Amarok and the Navarra. I agree with her, bearing in mind that the other two are much bigger. The cabin is not car like, it’s a bakkie, dammit. It is comfortable, ergonomically right and has all the things you want like aircon, power steering, cruise control, sound system and really comfortable seats. The all round visibility is excellent.

I found the KB72 a pleasure to drive. If you need rapid acceleration and higher top speed the KB 300 D-TEQ with its 120kW is highly capable.

The KB bakkies drive better than the Hi-Lux competition especially when unladen and on a gravel road. They are, I think, a better package than the Toyota.

All Isuzu’s come with a 5 year / 120 000 km warranty and a 12 month service plan.