ISUZU KB

Isuzu’s initial foray into the South African 4×4 world was in March 1972 with a 2-litre petrol pick-up badged ‘Chev LUV’. The 4×4 derivative came seven years later together with the name change to Isuzu KB series. By now a 1,9-litre diesel engine had been included in the range that was available in the 4×4 chassis by July 1979. In March 1984 engine evolution placed a 2,3-litre engine in the 4×4. The range was still going strong until March 1987 when the entire range was given a face-lift and the 4×4 KB was available in 2,3-litre petrol and 2,5-litre diesel engine, both models being single cab layouts. In March 1993 the noisy but trend-setting 2,8-litre direct injection turbo-diesel and the 2,6-litre petrol engines were introduced together with a double-cab body. For a while the top-spec model was called Reef and Frontier, (Before the Frontier station-wagon was introduced in 1998) a double-cab offered with both engine options. A third 4×4 variant was the 250D, a 2,5-litre normally aspirated diesel engine in the single cab.

In the nineties the Isuzu KB evolved into a respectable off-roader against stiff competition from Nissan, Colt and Toyota. Later it still managed to hold its own against the 1999 revamped Toyota Hilux, despite the Isuzu’s design being by far the oldest in the range. A rear differential lock, now becoming standard on many pick-ups, upgraded the Isuzu to an effective off-roader. Lack of ground clearance is the Isuzu’s biggest drawback and the standard towing attachment snags on obstacles, but can be replaced at modest cost. Changes in the new models were largely cosmetic while the diesel-turbo-engine remained frugal and reliable, and ideal for a working 4×4. It was this engines that kept a very old design popular for so long after more modern vehicles were introduced by its competitors.

Mid 2004 came a much bigger KB. Its small size is gone, its lack of clearance is gone as is its tractor-like diesel engine. Isuzu did their homework well and the latest KB is brilliant. The diesel is just as frugal as it ever was, but more powerful, the V6 is a gem and the off-road performance is as good as the Hilux and Triton. However, on-road it is not quite as refined as these two, and the interior is less flashy, but comfort and quality of ride on a rough farm track or off-road is better than any double cab out there. I think that the KB may be the best all-rounder double-cab in its class.

http://www.4xforum.com/vehicle-buyers-guide/isuzu