The new KB is here at last.
Its bigger.
Its bolder.
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