The Isuzu Double Cab has over the past year become my work vehicle, my family vehicle, my sporting vehicle and my adventure vehicle and with the launch of the sixth generation Isuzu KB, it is about to become my dream vehicle too.
Having just returned from the launch of the new Isuzu KB range in Mpumulanga, my head is still a little in the clouds but I can tell you that the new Isuzu KB 3 Litre D-Teq LX 4×4, which I had the pleasure of driving is stunning in many, many aspects.
Aspirational 4 x 4
Isuzu is renowned for their Diesel technology which is great for reliability and economy, but I can’t wait for my new vehicle to land, as it is a ‘looker’ of note, both internal and external. What was very noticeable to me was the quieter and smoother ride, while still providing the amazing all round capabilities of an awesome 4 x 4.
Last year I attended the Isuzu Offroad Academy, which is one of the best things I have done and I learnt so much from Marius Van Vuuren and Grant Mc Cleery so it was nice to be put through our paces in the new vehicles by these professionals on a testing 4x 4 track. The Double Cab lived up to it’s reputation, but I still have so much to learn to maximise my enjoyment of the vehicle and the 4x 4 world. https://www.isuzu.co.za/experience-isuzu/offroad-academy
Isuzu introduced ‘Trail View’, an amazing concept that all 4 x 4 enthusiasts will benefit from. As now you can go off-road online, as Isuzu are busy maping out the best off-road trails in the country, which we can log on to and view the trails before we tackle them and for a greenhorn like me, it will be great just to know where they are, how long they may take and the degree of difficulty. (Experience Isuzu Trail View at http://isuzutrailview.co.za/)
Isuzu is an Ironman South Africa partner and with the Specsavers Ironman only 4 weeks away (14 April), those attending Ironman will be able to see and test drive the all new Isuzu KB Bakkies and get a taste of the Isuzu Off-Road Academy. (Ironman athletes should let me know if they are interested and I can forward you the booking details)
Another highlight for me was meeting Sibusiso Vilane, the first African to climb Mount Everest. I listened to Sibusiso’s inspirational talk at the Financial Planning Convention in Sandton last year (where I was talking on Financial Planning) and thought what an amazing story, what an incredible individual. As Sibusiso is also an Isuzu Brand Ambassador it seems like we may get to do a few adventure events together which really excites me. Watch out for Sibusiso at the Comrades Marathon where he will be running for the Nelson Mandela’s 46664 charity.
Sibusiso Vilane, 1st African to summit Everest
So all in all an amazing outing, an aspirational vehicle, an incredible team at GM who built this vehicle and I would like to thank the organisers for inviting me, what a privilege it was for me to be a part of the launch. To Alastair Ironside, Mlungisi Nonkonyana and Isuzu I am very proud to be a part of the Isuzu team and am exceptionally grateful for your support of my Ironman Adventures.
On Sunday 17th March (tomorrow) I participate in the SA Olympic Distance Championships in East London and then will be looking forward to competing (and representing Isuzu) at Ironman South Africa on 14th April. Thereafter it will be time to plot and plan the second half of 2013. Could it be Kona, Hawaii, or will it be Las Vegas, alternatively London. Exciting times!
Yes We Do!
The Riddle of an Ironman's Life 