GQEBERHA – ISUZU Motors South Africa has taken the bold and distinctive X-Rider nameplate to new heights with the launch of the 2025 ISUZU X-Rider Black, a limited-edition model that enhances the appeal of the ever-popular D-MAX range.
Celebrated for its commanding design, efficiency, and all-round capability, the X-Rider continues to be a standout in South Africa’s fiercely competitive bakkie segment. Now, with the arrival of the X-Rider Black, ISUZU has created an even more exclusive and desirable version of this much-loved model.
Only 150 units will be built at ISUZU’s Struandale plant in Gqeberha, with availability limited to South Africa and selected African markets. Each vehicle will be individually numbered, featuring a special plaque on the inner fender that underlines its exclusivity.
“The X-Rider embodies our customers’ adventurous spirit and desire for individuality,” says Kevin Fouché, Department Executive, Product Planning, ISUZU Motors South Africa. “The new X-Rider Black elevates these attributes with added exclusivity and bold styling, while continuing the D-MAX tradition of durability, capability, and efficiency.”
Bold by Design
The X-Rider Black distinguishes itself as the only variant offered in Onyx Black, contrasted with unique styling elements. Key highlights include:
- 18-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels with red ‘ISUZU’ centre caps
- A muscular black tubular sports bar with a laser-cut red ‘X’ emblem
- Gun Metallic detailing on the front fascia and grille surround
- Patterned body decals and a black tailgate decal with silver outline
- Signature red ‘ISUZU’ grille badge, framed by LED headlights and fog lamps
Practical design touches such as dark grey roof rails and black finishes on handles, mirrors, and trim complete the assertive look.
Distinctive Interior
Inside, the X-Rider Black retains the familiar sporty black-and-red theme of the range, enhanced with:
- Leather seats with red stitching and embroidered ‘X’ logos
- Red accents across the dashboard, door handles, gear shifter and steering wheel
- Piano black trim finishes for an upmarket feel
- X-Rider-branded floor mats
Standard equipment includes cruise control, a seven-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six-speaker audio, Wi-Fi compatibility, rear-view camera, and rear park assist.
Safety and Capability
The model offers a full suite of safety features, including seven airbags, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, Trailer Sway Control, ABS with Brake Assist, and Hill Start/Descent Control on 4×4 variants.
Power comes from ISUZU’s proven 1.9-litre Ddi turbodiesel engine, producing 110 kW and 350 Nm. Renowned for its frugality, the engine achieved just 5.58 l/100 km in ISUZU’s 2023 One Tank Challenge. Customers can select between two 4×2 derivatives (manual or automatic) or a 4×4 automatic with shift-on-the-fly capability. All models come standard with General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres, an 800 mm wading depth, and a factory-fitted towbar rated at 2.1 tons.
Pricing (incl. VAT)
- 1.9 Ddi D/Cab HR X-RIDER BLACK (Manual): R664 100
- 1.9 Ddi D/Cab HR X-RIDER BLACK (Automatic): R685 600
- 1.9 Ddi D/Cab 4×4 X-RIDER BLACK AT RHD: R770 400
The X-Rider Black is sold with ISUZU’s five-year/90 000 km service plan, five-year/120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance, and five-year/unlimited anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km or 12 months.
With its striking styling, exclusivity, and proven performance, the 2025 ISUZU X-Rider Black is set to become a sought-after addition to the D-MAX family – one that blends rugged capability with unmistakable presence.
