That the all-new sixth Generation Isuzu KB has arrived in Africa to build on Isuzu’s iconic heritage of innovation, toughness, reliability and functionality is no longer news. What is important is that with its bold new styling, higher levels of comfort and safety together with more powerful engines, the new KB is offering an exciting package for the serious Pick-up owner and operator.
The larger size of the new KB, together with its smooth and well-proportioned styling, is immediately noticeable at first sight. The wedge shaped profile imparts a muscular and sporty expression while at the same time providing a distinct aerodynamic advantage.
Side steps with a non-slip upper surface are fitted as standard on the LX specification level for easier entry and exit from the vehicle. These have a secondary function in that they assist in inhibiting stone damage to lower body paintwork when travelling on gravel roads or off-road.
A noticeable feature on all 4WD and high ride models is the adoption of integrated steel wheel arch flares in place of the plastic over fenders used on the previous model. It also comes with larger wheel openings that add to the overall bold appearance of the new Isuzu KB.
Projector style headlamps, not normally seen on a pick-up, are standard on all LX models. The Fresnel blister on the projector headlamp protector reflects the light from the park lights at an angle of 80 degrees for improved visibility of the vehicle in low light for other road users. The rear is defined by bold new lamp clusters which provide bright and clear rear-end lighting. The light clusters flow through to the sides of the load box for side-on visibility.
On high-end LX models the rear combination light clusters are LED units that offers brighter illumination, especially beneficial in daylight conditions, and an extended life. Inside, the all-new Isuzu KB Extended Cab models offer the functionality of increased interior load carrying ability necessary for the secure carriage of important but higher value smaller loads need.
Excellent access to the extended cab area behind the seats is by way of rearward opening Flex Doors that can be opened from either inside or outside the vehicle. The Flex doors are fitted with an interlock that prevents them from being opened unless the front door is opened first – an important security feature.
The interior has been developed around a balance between form and function with three main criteria – comfort, ease of use, and flexibility. A reduction in noise, vibration and harshness levels (NVH) experienced in the cab makes the ride experienced in the new KB comparable to that of a passenger vehicle.
Interior space across the range of body styles has been increased with more room available under the dash and an increase of 10mm in shoulder room courtesy of the increase in overall width of the vehicle. Double Cab models offer more space for rear seat occupants. The wider and longer cab provides for an increase of 495mm between the rear door opening and the rear seat occupant’s hip-point for easier entry and exit.
An increase in rear head room has been achieved through the increased height of the vehicle and a revised angle for the rear seat backrest adds further comfort, especially over long journeys. The space for rear seat passengers is 25mm longer than the previous model and is now amongst the largest and roomiest cabin spaces in its class.
The dashboard and centre console is sporty in appearance and functional in design. All switches and controls are positioned so they fall easily and naturally to hand to provide for excellent ergonomics. The push-button type 4-Wheel Drive control of previous model is replaced with a simple to use single Ter
MIKE OCHONMA
