Limited-run high-spec Isuzu D-MAX ute offers unique blend of style and work
Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) has revived its ‘X-Rider’ nameplate and stuck it on the back (and sides) of an upgraded 2023 Isuzu D-MAX LS-M to create an exclusive new limited-run special-edition model.
Designed as a cut-price X-Terrain, just 1020 examples of the 2023 Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider will be shipped to Australia, all priced from an even $58,000 plus on-road costs.
That starting figure marks a $2700 increase over the standard LS-M 4×4 dual-cab pick-up (automatic), but the extra cash nets buyers a series of blacked-out styling touches and accessories including the grille, sports bars, side steps, door handles, exterior mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, unique X-RIDER decals and a soft tonneau cover.
Unlike the flagship X-Terrain, however, the exterior enhancements don’t correlate to an upgraded interior ambience, meaning the rest of the X-Rider’s standard equipment mirrors that of the standard LS-M.
Feature highlights run to smartphone mirroring, bi-LED headlights, cloth upholstery, manual air-conditioning, power windows, six-speaker sound system, all-terrain tyres and heavy-duty rear suspension.
No changes have been made to the familiar 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, six-speed automatic transmission or selectable part-time 4×4 system.
This combination of style and utilitarianism has prompted IUA to describe the reborn X-Rider as “the ultimate all-rounder”.
Just three colours – Granite Grey, Basalt Black and Mineral White – are being offered, with the former pinched from the X-Terrain’s palette for an extra sense of ‘exclusivity’.
IUA says order books for the X-Rider are open now, but no timing has been nominated for first deliveries.
How much does the 2023 Isuzu D-MAX cost?
SX Single Cab Chassis 1.9 4×2 – $32,200 drive-away
SX Single Cab Chassis 1.9 4×2 (a) – $34,200
SX Single Cab Chassis 4×2 – $34,200
SX Single Cab Chassis 4×2 (a) – $36,200
SX Space Cab Chassis 4×2 (a) – $39,700
SX Crew Cab Chassis 1.9 4×2 (a) – $40,700
SX Crew Cab Ute 1.9 4×2 (a) – $42,200
SX Single Cab Chassis 4×4 – $42,200
SX Crew Cab Ute 4×2 (a) – $44,200
SX Single Cab Chassis 4×4 (a) – $44,200
SX Space Cab Chassis 4×4 – $45,700
SX Space Cab Chassis 4×4 (a) – $47,700
SX Crew Cab Chassis 4×4 – $48,700
SX Crew Cab Ute 1.9 4×4 (a) – $50,200
SX Crew Cab Ute 4×4 (a) – $52,200
LS-U Crew Cab Ute 4×2 (a) – $53,000
LS-M Crew Cab Ute 4×4 – $53,300
LS-M Crew Cab Chassis 4×4 (a) – $53,800
LS-M Crew Cab Ute 4×4 (a) – $55,300
X-Rider Crew Cab Ute 4×4 (a) – $58,000
LS-U Space Cab Ute 4×4 (a) – $58,000
LS-U Crew Cab Ute 4×4 – $59,000
LS-U Crew Cab Chassis 4×4 (a) – $59,500
LS-U Crew Cab Ute 4×4 (a) – $61,000
LS-U+ Crew Cab Ute 4×4 (a) – $63,500
X-Terrain Crew Cab Ute 4×4 (a) – $64,990 drive-away
*Prices exclude on-road costs unless otherwise indicated
Keyword: 2023 Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider special-edition now on sale