Isuzu has revived the X-Rider nameplate for the D-Max, with the limited-edition model now available Down Under. It seems only a matter of time before such a variant is offered in South Africa…

The X-Rider badge has been applied to the latest-generation Isuzu D-Max for the first time, with the subtly tweaked model debuting in Australia in special-edition form.

Billed as the “ultimate all-rounder”, the new D-Max X-Rider double cab offered in that market comes equipped with a black sports bar, a revised grille and 17-inch alloy wheels bearing a gloss-black finish with red accents. The same dark hue has been applied to the exterior handles, side mirrors and side steps, while the tailgate gains an “X” badge.

The Australian-spec model furthermore ships standard with a soft tonneau cover (featuring elasticised bungy looping) as well as automatic bi-LED headlamps with daytime running lights. A trio of exterior colours is on offer, including Basalt Black Mica, Mineral White and Granite Grey Mica. Inside, you’ll find what Isuzu describes as “high-quality” cloth seats.

Down Under, the X-Rider is available exclusively with Isuzu’s 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which delivers 140 kW and 450 Nm to all 4 wheels courtesy of a 6-speed automatic transmission. A rear differential lock and underbody protection are furthermore included.

Will we see the new D-Max X-Rider in South Africa?

Note the subtle “X” badge at the rear.

So, will this new X-Rider be offered in South Africa? Well, despite the fact the Australian market sources its D-Max units from Thailand while South Africa manufactures its own at Isuzu’s Struandale factory in the Eastern Cape, it seems highly likely the X-Rider nameplate will also return to the local line-up.

Why? Well, it’s a badge that has enjoyed tremendous success in South Africa, having first made an appearance here in July 2016 as a “special value model” offered on the KB in extended and double-cab form. By April 2017, the dual-cab version of the X-Rider had become a permanent fixture in the line-up, such was its popularity. The special-edition X-Rider Black followed in May 2018.

A new version of the X-Rider Black – based on the facelifted bakkie that had by then switched to the D-Max badge – launched late in 2019, before 3 more X-Rider Limited Edition derivatives followed at the end of 2021, effectively seeing off the RT-generation model.

We’ve asked Isuzu Motors SA if the new X-Rider is destined for the local market and will update this story once we hear back…

UPDATE: Though Isuzu Motors South Africa says it was “involved” in the development of this new model for Australia, the latest X-Rider “has not been confirmed for SA”…

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