GORV - Digital Magazine Issue #46 | Page 20

RV FEATURE
ENGINE AND TOWING
Isuzu ’ s new 4JJ3-TCX engine produces 140kW at 3600rpm and 450Nm ( peak torque ) at 1600rpm to 2600rpm . This equates to an increase of 10kW and 20Nm over the previous engine . Isuzu ’ s claims of a reduction in noise , vibration and harshness seem reasonably justified – at least , it did not seem inordinately loud or harsh in ride quality when towing on smooth surfaces . Obviously the engine worked harder up hills , and that translated in terms of sound but , again , not to an unreasonable degree .
In terms of testing towing performance , our van , which only weighed around 2200kg , wasn ’ t an ideal partner for a vehicle that can tow up to 3500kg ; however , having towed vans over 3000kg with previous D-MAX utes , I know this vehicle to be a reasonably stable tow tug that can haul heavy trailers while offering decent fuel consumption .
Having said that , there were occasions when the vehicle felt a little ‘ twitchy ’, especially at freeway speeds , but it was nothing I found concerning at the time . On country and unmade roads , the ride was perhaps a little harsher than I expected , though overall it handled undulations well , and held its gear on medium inclines . It appeared to struggle a little , though , when the hill became too steep and the auto had to kick back accordingly .
Fuel consumption when towing 2200kg worth of caravan , along a mix of secondary / country roads and freeway , for over 400km , was 14.5 to 15L / 100km .
Now , the X-TERRAIN has a kerb weight of 2130kg , a Gross Vehicle Mass of 3100kg , and a Gross Combined Mass of 5950kg . You ’ ll have to do some sums , however , if towing particularly heavy vans – the payload capacity in the vehicle ( including the weight of accessories , the towbar , passengers , etc .) has to reduce accordingly . In fact , towing the maximum 3500kg allowed by Isuzu will reduce available payload and accessories to 320kg .
Without a trailer hitched up , the X-TERRAIN offers a 970kg payload capacity .
SUMMING UP
Without question , this is a sharp looking ute and the price is reasonable , too , given what ’ s on offer .
It does not appear to be ridiculously thirsty for diesel when towing light and mid-weight vans , and the 3L turbodiesel does a good job in most traffic scenarios – I had no issues with its responsiveness ; in fact , I thought the new D-MAX was more responsive than previous iterations .
With a six-year / 150,000km factory warranty , the Isuzu presents as a slightly more capable vehicle , and there ’ s no doubt the in-cab comforts and safety technology greatly increase its appeal .
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