Bucket Seat: GWM P300 LT

The love affair that South African motorists have with bakkies needs to be studied. I say this because a good 50% of the bakkie drivers don’t use the bakkie for it’s intended purpose, they buy it as an everyday car which is why you’re seeing more and more luxury elements filtering into what used to be a workhorse type of vehicle. Majority of the bakkie drivers don’t use bin, barely go off-roading and a lot just buy a tonne of fancy accessories to make their bakkie stand out more from the next. The most action these bakkies face is climbing pavements. Now I know I’ve been slandering the bakkie drive a lot in this introduction but for someone who drives multiple types of cars, I just feel that bakkies are not practical family cars. However, every time I get a bakkie rolling into my driveway, I do get excited and in this review I’ll tell you why. Not too long ago I spent some times with the GWM P300 double cab, a bakkie that’s shook the local market sending a shock wave to the likes of Toyota, Ford and Isuzu whom have been dominating the market for some time, the Chinese have already made their mark in the SUV segment so now they’re setting their eyes on the much loved bakkie with this P300.

DESIGN

The P300 is no stranger to SA with it being the talk of the market since it was launched 4 years ago. It’s managed to gain traction due to its offerings and attractive price but the looks department hasn’t changed drastically since. With minor updates to the car over the years, it still remains an attractive offering, and with the latest LT model you can see the cosmetic work done to it is anything but subtle. The flared wheel arches make it quite prominent, the bolder grille and GWM badge sits more proud on the front. A more neater front bumper which follows the lines of the grille keep the front end symmetrical all while looking rugged and capable for action. The size of the van really does surprise you when you get up close to it. The use of more bolder colours and higher quality materials makes this van look a lot more premium, the extra additions like roof rails and the very handy step ladder that deploys from the tail gate for easy access into the bin. On the inside, one would be mistaken for being in a luxury SUV, the layout is simple but classy, something very different from what we are used to in a "workhorse". 

PERFORMANCE

The P300 LT comes in one engine derivative, being the 2.4L Turbo Diesel, this being the same engine that featured in the Tank 300 that I had previously. The two models vary in terms of drive, with the entry level being a 4 x 2 and the range topping being 4 x 4, both have a 9-speed automatic gearbox that works superbly with the drive train, without the normal issues that plagued the previous models. The engine derives 135kW and 480Nm of torque, which is powerful numbers. GWM claim the 4 x 4 model has a fuel economy of 8.0L per 100km, which wasn't that hard to achieve, the diesel motor makes a world of difference and with out any load and calm driving around town is what helped me get to around that figure. Once you start loading the bin and cabin, it might be a different story. The P300 LT comes with 18" alloys which are wrapped around with 265 all terrain tyres, the front suspension is a double wishbone type with the rear being leaf spring rigid axle. The off-road controls very easy to engage with most of them being a push of a button and with the new off-road display on the infotainment screen it makes it all that more simpler to conquer tougher terrains. 

COMFORT

As mentioned earlier, the cabin of the P300 LT is akin to a luxury SUV, with high quality and robust materials used to adorn it. The new layout is very modern, feature two screens, a 9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch multi-touch infotainment screen. The user interface is simple to use and very touch sensitive, so making it easy for the driver to access items while driving. The car has Bluetooth connectivity, wireless mobile app connectivity which includes Android Auto and Carplay. It has a 6-speaker sound system which is quite good and also has speed-sensing speaker volume adjustment which automatically increases the volume ever so slightly when going at higher speeds to compensate for the road noise. The P300 LT comes with climate control and front seat heating, these are all adjusted from physical buttons and not via the touchscreen. The front console has a USB A and USB C port as well as a wireless charging tray. there is a fair amount of storage compartments up front for cup holders with a slide tray under the arm rest for you to store keys and remotes. The back, as per most double cabs does not have the most room but it is sufficient for two adults to sit comfortably with USB charging ports and ventilation for the passengers. the biggest surprise would be the sunroof, its the first time I've ever seen a bakkie that comes with a sunroof!  The bin is sizable but I'm a bit disappointed that it didn't come with an auto roller shutter or any power outlets like most of the other bakkies on the market. 

VERDICT

Ultimately the P300 LT is still here to do the job the original P Series has been doing and that is disrupt the market. Its offerings are unique and very attractive but what will draw more people to it is the price. When GWM first introduced this model to the market, it had its skepticism on how long it would fair in terms of reliability and performance and to its credit, most of which have been sold are still going strong. So you be the judge of that, the Chinese are really coming in hard and fast, but with brands like GWM who have firmed themselves in the country, there isn't that worry about reputation or after sales services because of their wide dealer network. I think the jury on the Chinese cars could be making a decision very soon given the number of new brands and models coming into the country and the market being very open to try them out. This particular model for me is a winner and while many still might prefer their trusted Hilux or Ranger, that  saving of close to 300K is very enticing.  

SPECIFICATION

Engine	2.4L Turbo Diesel
Gear Box	9-Speed Automatic
Torque	480Nm
Power	135kW
Fuel Economy	8.0L/100km
Price	R649,900

 

Bucket Seat: Ford Ranger Tremor

Another day and another Ford Ranger derivative, the guys at Ford SA do love to tinker with their line-up but I don't think its a bad thing as they really making a Ranger for everyone just depending on what you want it for. The Tremor is one of the more buff looking Rangers in the stable once you get to the nuts and bolts of it all, you realise it borrows the best bits from all the other Ranger offerings and packaged into one complete offering that is a good mix between hardcore off-roading and a versatile double cab bakkie with loads of tech. 

DESIGN

Just like any other Ranger, the Tremor's main feature is the front end with its menacing honeycomb radiator grille that is blacked out with the Ford badge in center accompanied by the distinct C-clamp headlights either side. The Aluminium bash plate isn't just there to compliment the looks but also serves a purpose since this is a fully fledged 4x4. Like mentioned before, it does stand taller than most, thanks to the Bilsten suspension which is borrowed from the Wildtrak X, which increases the ride height by 24mm, it's also 30mm wider than the normal Rangers and has the cast aluminium steps borrowed from the Ranger Raptor to thank for that. Massive General Grabber A/T tyres complete the rugged 4x4 look that gives the Tremor a more aggressive stance. On the inside, the Tremor has the massive touchscreen infotainment screen as the focal point but the immediate difference is noticeable on the floor with virtually the entire tub and seats being finished off in vinyl giving the Tremor a more hardcore, durable surface to clean. The long legged sportsbar in the bin finishes off the look for the Tremor and really add's to the no nonsense style of it all. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, you will find Ford's impressive 2.0L BiTurbo diesel engine that delivers 154kW of power and 500Nm of torque, this all mated to the 10-speed automatic gearbox makes for a power house on the dirt. With the Tremor having AWD - Full time 4-wheel drive system you really get to experience the power of this engine when going in the dirt. The AT3 tyres assist in the fun of it all and the various pre-programmed driving modes make it simple enough for even a novice to navigate tricky conditions on the roads less traveled. On normal roads the Tremor handles like a breeze, one would have thought with the big tyres and high suspension the cabin would be filled with unwanted road noise and it being all over the place but its very composed even at high-speeds on the highway. Handling isn't too bad either and it's everything you'd expect from a bakkie of this nature, could be down to the setup of the shocks and driving modes but the Tremor knows it's surroundings and performs great wherever it goes. 

COMFORT

The interior ain't no Ranger Platinum contender but it's minimalist to a point where all the materials used are robust and easy to clean but the Tremor still comes with all the technology bells and whistles which is what I'm here for. With the 12-inch colour touchscreen infotainment center dominating the cabin with FORD SYNC4 and all mobile apps pre-loaded for wireless usage, it makes it the command center for this beast. The instrument cluster is the standard 8-inch digital display which the driver can navigate through the various car and driving info from the multi control steering wheel. Like all the other Rangers, the Tremor comes with 6 auxiliary switches for additional add-ons and dual-zone climate control for those ever changing conditions when venturing into the great unknowns. The Tremor seats are finished off in vinyl with Tremor name stitched into the driver and front passenger seats, the tub is also vinyl coated for easy cleaning when messed, in fact I wouldn't be surprised if you could take a hose to the floor of the Tremor. Overall, with the driving comfort and what you get in the cabin, the Tremor is not a bad place to be for a work horse/ activity bakkie. The load box comes with the normal goodies which include as a 12V power outlet. The tremor also comes with a 4-camera system with surround view and multi-view ensuring you have eyes all around the car at any given time. 

VERDICT

I think I hit the nail on the head in my previous description of the Tremor, it is an activity bakkie, designed for those that have a sense of adventure but don't want the big V6 of the Raptor. It has the best bits from most of the Ranger line up and with that, it doesn't cross the million rand mark so makes it an appealing option for those that want an adventure bakkie but at a little less than a fortune. I wouldn't go as far as saying its a baby Raptor because the Raptor name badge deserves a lot more credit than that but Ford has given us something very worthwhile and not just another Ranger derivative with a different name badge as this one is unique in every possible way. I like the fact that they gave it almost all the tech you can get from the Ranger range so that it is properly equipped for off-roading. The only thing missing is the e-shifter but in my opinion this one doesn't need it as the current 10-speed automatic does just fine. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0L BiTurbo Diesel
Gear Box	10-speed automatic
Torque	500Nm
Power	154kW
Towing capacity	3500kg
Price	R978,600

 

Bucket Seat: ISUZU D-MAX X-RIDER

ISUZU Motors South Africa is launching the all-new D-MAX X-RIDER – the latest iteration of the exciting X-RIDER series that has been exceptionally popular with South African customers since it debuted in 2016.

Based on the latest seventh-generation D-MAX range, which is produced at ISUZU’s Struandale plant in Gqeberha, the all-new X-RIDER once again embodies the stand-out character, bold design and distinctive features that have made this unique model revered amongst pickup, or bakkie, owners in South Africa.

The X-RIDER debuted in ISUZU’s D-MAX range as a limited-edition special-value model in 2016, and gained instant popularity. A year later, it was integrated into the standard line-up and has remained a top choice for bakkie enthusiasts wanting a capable vehicle that stands out from the crowd. The original X-RIDER was celebrated for its distinctive design elements and upscale features, and the all-new X-RIDER takes this legacy to new heights.

“The new D-MAX X-RIDER is all about image, style and capability, and is a great choice for discerning customers that want something special,” says Kevin Fouche, Department Executive: Product Planning and Programme Management at ISUZU Motors South Africa. “The X-RIDER will attract a lot of attention, but to offer value to our customer the new X-RIDER is based on the mid-range 1.9 Ddi LS models with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions in 4x2 form, and a 4x4 automatic for adventurous customers heading off the beaten track.”

Eye-catching exterior

The all-new D-MAX X-RIDER is a head-turner and will appeal to customers wanting something different from the norm. Its assertive character is clearly evident from the front with the sleek black gloss grille once again adorned with bold red ‘ISUZU’ lettering, which continues the distinctive theme that was started with the original X-RIDER model.

X-RIDER badges are featured on both front doors and the tailgate to reinforce its exclusive status, complemented by a black ISUZU tailgate decal. LED headlamps, LED fog lamps and LED taillamps enhance the upmarket appearance while ensuring optimal visibility, day or night.

Stylish black accents on the door handles, B-pillars, side-mirror covers, tailgate handle and curved sports bar behind the cab emphasize the X-RIDER’s dynamic aesthetics. In addition to enhancing the overall silhouette, the dark grey roof rails serve a practical purpose, accommodating roof racks if needed.

Sophisticated 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, featuring red ‘ISUZU’ lettering on black centre caps, provide a stylish yet grounding element to the rugged posture. A towbar is included as standard, with a 2.1-ton tow rating.

In keeping with its special status, the D-MAX X-RIDER is available in four striking colours, comprising Splash White, Mercury Silver (from April 2024), Red Spinel and Islay Gray.

The inner sanctum

Subtle red accents throughout the cabin emphasise the X-RIDER’s unique personality. The leather seats are given sporty flair with red contrast stitching and embroidered red ‘X’ logos on the headrests, the bold interior is finished off with PVC leather door trims with red stitching.

A striking red divider resplendent with the ‘X’ logo is positioned between the glove compartment and dashboard, further lifting the dynamic ambience, complemented by a leather-wrapped, red-stitched steering wheel featuring a red ISUZU badge.

Additional red accents, such as elements in the door materials, red stitching on gearshift boot and the park-brake sheath all contribute to a cohesive design that underscores the vehicle’s distinctiveness.

Setting it apart from other D-MAX models, the cabin features dark interior surfaces and a dark headliner, with unique X-RIDER floor mats completing the exclusive look.

The power within

Fuel efficiency is a hallmark of the D-MAX range, and particularly when it comes to ISUZU’s frugal 1.9-litre Ddi engine that’s a cornerstone of the seventh-generation model. This four-cylinder common-rail diesel engine received wide recognition earlier this year in ISUZU’s One Tank Challenge, achieving a remarkable fuel economy figure of 5.58 litres per 100 km over 1 452 km of varied terrain. The intercooled turbodiesel unit delivers a maximum 110 kW of power at 3 600 r/min and peak torque of 350 Nm from 1 800 to 2 600 r/min.

Power from the 1.9 Ddi engine is dispatched to the wheels through two transmission options: a six-speed manual, known for its precise and direct gear shifts, ensuring effortless gear selection; and a six-speed automatic, finely tuned for swift gear changes and enhanced fuel efficiency. Customers have the option of the manual or automatic transmissions on the 4x2 version, while the 4x4 model is equipped with the six-speed automatic as standard.

The X-RIDER’s performance is in sync with its rugged aesthetics. It maintains the same standards as the rest of the current D-MAX range, offering a maximum wading depth of 800 mm, improved underbody protection, enhanced aerodynamics for better airflow and cooling, and, on the 4x4 model, a quick-engaging shift-on-the-fly 4x4 drive system.

The X-RIDER incorporates an impressive set of standard safety features, including driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, curtain airbags and a driver’s knee airbag.

Active safety features available to the driver include ABS brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Trailer Sway Control.

Model line-up

The X-RIDER range consists of three models, all in LS trim grade and available only in double-cab configuration. The 1.9 Ddi D/Cab HR X-RIDER LS features a six-speed manual transmission, while the HR X-RIDER LS AT and 4x4 X-RIDER LS AT come equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission.

All come standard with cruise control, a seven-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a six-speaker audio system, Wi-Fi compatibility and a rear USB port. Additionally, rear park assist and a rear-view camera are included as standard features.

The new X-RIDER retains its focus on the same target audience as its predecessor: customers wanting a double cab with distinctive looks, heightened refinement, notable safety and comfort features, as well as unwavering performance and reliability. While style and image hold significance, accessibility is a top priority, and it’s here where the X-RIDER excels.

The development of the all-new D-MAX X-RIDER formed part of ISUZU’s substantial R1.2-billion investment in the company’s Struandale operations to produce the seventh-generation D-MAX range.

Pricing will be released soon.

ISUZU Complete Care

ISUZU Complete Care comes standard with every new ISUZU D-MAX and embodies Isuzu’s unwavering commitment to aftersales service and customer satisfaction. All new ISUZU D-MAX models are sold as standard with a comprehensive five-year/120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance, as well as a five-year unlimited distance anti-corrosion warranty.

In addition, a five-year/90 000 km service plan is included in the purchase price, with service intervals scheduled every 15 000 km or annually, whichever comes first.

Through ISUZU Mobility, customers have the option of extending the standard service plan up to a maximum of six years or 200 000 km. Alternatively, the service plan can be upgraded to a full maintenance plan that covers the vehicle for planned and unplanned maintenance up to six years/200 000 km.

Bucket Seat: Ford Ranger XLT

It seems fitting that this review is being published in the very same week that Ford South Africa is celebrating it's centenary in the country. The American motoring giant has long ties with the country and helping build the economy over the years, now more than ever it's at its strongest with Billions invested into the plant in Silverton to see the production of the new Ford Ranger and VW Amarok. This expansion and investment saw the creation of thousands of jobs locally and firmly rooting their commitment to South Africa. The Ranger XLT is one of the many variants available in the Ranger range, with the XLT forming the bridge between work-horse and lifestyle bakkie. Having spent time with both of its partners derivatives, this was my first hand experience in the new Ranger, so it was keen to see the differences that this would have over the other model on which its based on. 

DESIGN

Ford's new design took many by surprise when we first got a look at the new Ranger, bold American pick-up truck inspired looks really gives the new Ranger presence like never before on the roads. The car is also physically bigger than its predecessor by a few millimeters here and there but it stands tall with increase ride height and bigger rims and wheels to amplify that it means business on and off the road. The C-Clamp headlamps are a focal point of the design, with the C shaped LED halo that serves as day-time running lights and the main lamps housed inside that. The massive new grille extends from the lights to the center which is adorned by the Ford emblem in the middle. Like the Everest, it's a very strong front design with the top of it colour-coded, the bottom see's a mixtures of robust plastics and the skid plates which are finished in brushed aluminium to give it some character. The profile of the car is where you can see the increase in ride height with a visible gap between the wheel arch and the top of the tyre. The wheel arches also have that black plastic border to prevent scratches to the body work. A side step extends from the front to the back, with black detailing for the side vents, and bin frame. Being an in between model, the doors get black plastic handles. What I like about Ford's design over the VW is that there is small additions to the design that make so much sense, like the inclusion of a step at the rear end of the bin on either side to make entry into the bin easier, then the ruler which is embossed on the tail gate of the bin for measurements on site.  There is even slots for clamps on the bin walls and a 12V power outlet in the bin. Very practical and extremely innovative if you ask me. 

PERFORMANCE

With a choice of two engine derivatives in the XLT range, and two drive options, I was in the seat of of the range topping 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel 4x4 model. Producing 154kW and 500Nm of torque, the power supplied by the motor, coupled with that magnificent 10-speed automatic gear box just gives the XLT power on demand, whether you have a load or not, the car senses when to use how much power thanks to that gearbox. This gives the XLT a great fuel economy. Going off road with it, having the option of four wheel drive is always handy should you get your self in a pickle but for most of my gravel expeditions, leaving the car in two wheel drive and occasionally getting into four -high was more than adequate for it. The car handles extremely well both on the tar and in the dirt, the turning circle might not be the greatest but that is a given since it is a rather large vehicle. The Range XLT boats a towing capacity of 3500kg so rest assured your caravan can be towed along to any destination with ease. The steering feels light on the hand with easy maneuverability at slow speeds, making it ideal to navigate those tricky paths when venturing off road. 

COMFORT

I know I said the XLT is an in-betweener of a Workhorse and a Lifestyle bakkie, stepping into the cabin makes you feel its more of the latter as its a very nice place to be. Full leather seats with patterns that match the front grille, and white stitching, A stylish dash finished off with various textured materials and elements with that large 10.4-inch infotainment screen, it makes the Ranger XLT feel like a modern SUV. The driver and front passenger enjoy dual zone climate control with vents in the back for the rear passengers. With Ford's latest SYNC OS on the screen it makes it really easy to navigate what you need, or with most of us today, this screen makes the perfect display for mobile applications such as Apple Car Play and Android Auto. The wireless charger sits below the climate controls with two USB ports for charging. The instrument cluster is fully digital with various views to toggle with and it has a full multi-function steering wheel with buttons to control pretty much every thing in the cabin, keeping the drivers hands where they should be. Space in the cabin is very impressive with even my seat being reclined to the back due to my height, still giving the rear occupants enough room to be seated comfortably. Being a bakkie I dont think much gets spoken about the bin, I love the molding and the finishing of the Fords bin, even with the power outlet, clamps and ruler I mentioned earlier, it just feels a much neater product than the VW. 

VERDICT

Ford's pricing for their new Ranger was very aggressive, coming in at almost identical pricing to the outgoing models made this product a very attractive offering. To see what the cars are coming loaded with in terms of technology and safety, it makes you think hard and long that this is actually a bakkie and not an SUV. Such is the demand for these lifestyle vehicles, its nice to see Ford heading the consumers call by offering vehicles like this to suit almost everyone's pockets. While you will get the odd few who will moan about paying that much for a bakkie, stepping inside one, driving it around you will very quickly learn that its value for money. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.0L Bi-Turbo
Gear Box	10-Speed Automatic
Torque	500Nm
Power	154kW
Towing capacity	3500kg
Price	R833,800*