Since 2011, Isuzu Ute Australia has released a number of limited edition ute’s to the market and this one, the 2019 Isuzu D-Max X-Runner is up there with the others.
Manufacturers typically release these marketing models in the run-up to a model change or to give their sales volumes a lift, particularly during important sales periods.
The End of Financial Year is one those times.
It’s been 2 years since the last X-Runner was seen. 2018 seemed to be a year where it wasn’t needed – IUA had released their upgraded model and probably didn’t see the need to spend the extra marketing dollars.
2019 is a different story – whilst volumes of D-Max and MU-X are going ok, there’s 7 months to the end of 2019 and an extra 600 odd sales isn’t to be sneezed at.
Isuzu has increased sales every year since arriving in Australia in 2008 but 2019 promises to be the hardest year to continue that run.
The Isuzu D-Max X-Runner is available in dealer showrooms from May 1st.
No-one at Isuzu Ute Australia will discuss when a new model will be released, but I personally don’t think that it’s far away.
The Bangkok International Motor Show 2020 is arguably the place and time that IUA will reveal the new model
Limited to 645 units
- Exclusive styling, inside and out
- Available in two colours: Pearl White or Magnetic Red
- Improved Service Plus Program 6-6-7 (6 Year Warranty, 6 Years Roadside Assist, 7 Years Capped Price Servicing)
Here’s IUA’s press release
Limited to only 645 units, the X-RUNNER will be available to purchase for $54,990 Drive Away in two finishes; Pearl White (exclusive to X-RUNNER) and Magnetic Red.
Managing Director of Isuzu UTE Australia, Hiroyasu Sato said the 2019 X-RUNNER was designed to be different, to make a statement with its commanding presence and bold and unique styling.
“The D-MAX X-RUNNER was first introduced back in 2011 to great success, with the latest X-RUNNER made available in 2017 seeing even more success amongst drivers seeking a bold-looking 1-tonne ute. With a number of unique features and accessories inside and out, and bolstered by its exclusive styling and exclusive paintwork, we fully expect that the 2019 X-RUNNER will be even more successful than its predecessors,” he said.
Based on an Isuzu D-MAX 4×4 LS-T, the X-RUNNER inherits key defining components usually reserved to the LS-T, including a six-way electric driver’s seat, leather accented interior, Passive Entry and Start System (PESS), all of which is powered by Isuzu’s exclusive 3-litre turbo diesel 4JJ1-TC engine—generating 430Nm of torque, matched with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The D-MAX LS-T itself has been given a refresh for 2019; featuring new-look 18-inch machined-faced matte black aluminium wheels, new Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) sidesteps and touches of matte black to the roof rails and body to accentuate the muscular look the D-MAX is renowned for.
Additional features that are exclusive to the X-RUNNER are a number of exterior styling tweaks, including X-RUNNER branding across the bonnet, doors, rear quarter and tailgate.
The iconic ‘ISUZU’ tailgate branding and front fog lights has been refreshed with a unique dark grey finish, all of which is flanked by Isuzu branding finished in red.
Contrasting against the matte grey finish of the iconic horizontal front grille is the signature ‘ISUZU’ badge now finished in red. Matching the striking look are a host of genuine accessories, such as Rear Park Assist, under rail tub liner and a sports bar finished in satin black, to complete the look.
The iconic red and black styling continues within—personifying the interior with X-RUNNER scuff plates, piano black finishes and defining red Isuzu badges and trims across the doors, dash and steering wheel. The distinguishing X-RUNNER styling has also been incorporated to other aspects of the interior; including piano black trims on the doors and centre console—for a premium look and feel—matched with the interior roof lining and pillars trimmed in black for a defining cabin presence.
Contrasting with the acres of black and grey trim is lashings of premium soft touch materials with red stitched leatherette across the dashboard, doors, glove box and console lid, and genuine leather wrapping the steering wheel.
The leather-accented seats inherited from the D-MAX LS-T have also received a unique finish; trimmed with red perforated genuine leather on body contact areas, flanked with dark grey leatherette on the seat bolsters and headrests for durability, all of which are sewn with X-RUNNER defining red stitching.
As testament to the confidence instilled within the very DNA of the limited edition Isuzu D-MAX X-RUNNER and all 19MY D-MAX and MU-X models, IUA has improved the comprehensive ownership care package program, Service Plus 6-6-7; encompassing a 6 Year Warranty, 6 Years Roadside Assistance and 7 Year Capped Price Servicing program.
To find out more about the 2019 Isuzu D-MAX X-RUNNER, please visit www.xrunner.com.au
Bob Aldons is The Car Guy
I’m Bob Aldons, the owner and founder of The Car Guy, and Car Business, reviewing cars, reporting on Car Industry Matters, Car Technology, Formula 1, The Motoring World at large and helping you to buy #anynewcarcheaper
I’ve spent the last forty-one years immersed in the automotive industry from salesman to the owner of a 7 brand multi-franchise dealership and since 2015, as a new car broker.
I know cars.
Find One
If you’re hunting around for the best price on your next new car, you should call me, the car expert, from Car Business.
My company, a Brisbane Car Broker, Car Buyers Agent or Car Buyers Advocate, will return your inquiry within 24 hours and make the process of buying a new car easy and stress-free.
Are you tired of salesperson tricks? I protect you from the pressure exerted by car dealer’s salespeople. There isn’t any obligation – just a pretty significant saving in terms of time, stress and financial reward.
You’re where? Seriously, my services are available for you in any Australian state and territory: from Darwin to Hobart, Cairns to Perth. Car Broker Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, and Darwin – I’m available when you need me to be.
Whether you’re a retail customer, a small company or a large national fleet, I’ll work with you to get that new car price down. Lower new car prices are my goal. So you’ll get the best prices from me rather than hoping you can do it by yourself.
If I can’t get you the best new car price, better than you can get yourself from a new car dealer, I won’t charge you anymore than my minimal retainer. That’s what you should expect from a car buying expert.
Car Business will help you to purchase your next new car – Cheaper
Car Business WILL save you money on your next new car purchase –guaranteed
Australian Road Safety Foundation. The Australian Road Safety Foundation is a not-for-profit organization whose charter is to reduce serious accidents on our roads through training and education.
Car Business donates to the ARSF for every car we sell. If you’d like to support this worthwhile foundation, donate to the cause, become a member today or buy your next new car from Car Business.
People Also Ask/Frequently Asked Questions
Car Buyers always seem to need answers on a vast number of topics about their cars.
There are a few questions that I’m asked regularly, so to save you a phone call, check out my “People Also Ask” questions and answers below.
If your question isn’t listed, I’m happy for you to call me on 0418 748 498 or send an email to [email protected]
My advice is free.
Q: Why Should I deal with a Car Broker rather than just going to a dealer?
A: It’s the goal and the job of a car salesperson to make as much money for their dealership as they possibly can. And that applies to the car, finance (finance and insurance), and aftermarket sales (tint, paint, interior, rust).
It’s the role of a car broker or car buyer’s agent to buy the same car at the lowest possible price. Your broker will get prices from at least five dealers or more, get independent finance and insurance quotes and then only recommend the car protection you need rather than the products the dealer wants to sell you. Dealers, on average, make around $3800 on a car sale. An astute broker will get that margin down to around $1800, saving you about $2000 on your vehicle purchase
Q: Should I take Finance and Insurance through a car dealer?
A: Generally no. An average car dealer relies on the car buyer to be exhausted after the trauma and stress of actually buying a car. They depend on their finance manager to make an average profit of $1100 for EVERY car buyer coming into their dealership. The income per finance contract rests around $3000 per customer. In recent times, the ACCC (Australian Consumer and Competition Commission) has looked closely at the way that finance companies and their dealers sell to consumers. Recently, voluntarily, finance companies have reduced the flex rate (the maximum rate allowed to be charged over the base rate for particular consumers) to 4%, down from 8%.
There is still a need to be wary of some of the non-standard lenders. For those in our community who have fallen on hard times have bad credit or are on Centrelink benefits, some lenders are still allowed to charge exorbitant interest rates, upwards of 25%.
Q: It’s a fact that dealers, forced by their manufacturers charge very high prices for genuine spare parts. Recently I needed to purchase a set of head bolts for a 2008 Alfa Romeo Sedan. Price quoted by my local dealer was $294. I picked them up from the UK for $115 including freight to Australia. I expect to receive them at the same time as the local dealer would take to get them from Melbourne.
A: It’s not the dealer’s fault on this occasion. Typically a dealer makes around 20% profit on genuine spare parts sales. It’s the manufacturer/Importer who is charged prices higher than dealers in overseas markets can buy at. Shop around.
To determine whether you can buy the part you need, you’ll first need the part number. Get your VIN, ring the local dealer and ask for the part number. They may oblige and if they do, just search on the net through Google. You’ll be amazed. There’ll even be local suppliers who can provide a genuine part for you at around overseas prices.
For Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Isuzu Ute and Volkswagen, visit my site www.genuinespares.com.au
Q: If you have a larger vehicle, with a lot of glass area, the chances are that you’ll want or need window tinting. At the point of sale, dealers will want to charge you up to $795 to tint the windows of your car. Again, you’ll want to avoid the stress and pressure of negotiating anymore and sign where you’re asked.
A: Window tinting can be obtained for under $400 through Car Business. My company has arrangements with local tint shops to do the job for $375. Don’t be overcharged. $375 is the price to pay for high-quality guaranteed tint for the average vehicle
Q: How do I pick the right car for my needs?
A: Typically, car buyers will have a general idea of what sort of car they want to buy. However, in a market like ours with nearly 60 brands and thousands of models, historical ownership doesn’t have to be maintained. Find an honest new car buyer’s agent and have a chat to them about your requirements.
My company, Car Business, offers this service to my customers without any obligation. You can fill out the lifestyle form, by clicking and I will contact you to discuss your needs. I use the R J Pound Comparative new Vehicle Price Guide to assist buyers in understanding the alternatives. It may not be the one you’re thinking about right now.
Q: I need some accessories for my new car, but I’m not sure that I’m getting the best price from the dealer
A: Accessories are another area that dealers make a lot of their profit. Apart from the window tinting, paint and interior protection and rust proofing, a typical salesperson will run through a long list of accessories. Even the manufacturer has copious amounts of accessories in their new car brochure.
Don’t feel obligated to buy any accessories you want through the dealer. I suggest to a lot of my customers to phone the spare parts department of the same dealer and ask for a quote on the accessories they want. You might be surprised at a price. The other way is to search on the internet. There are lots of retailers who buy the same parts you want from overseas suppliers (even ones that supply the manufacturer directly) and will offer them at a substantially better price. All you have to do is fit them up, but generally it’s a pretty easy thing to do for the home handyman.
Recently I assisted a customer to purchase a new Nudge Bar for his Toyota Prado. Ian was quoted $1467 from a shop in Toowoomba. I bought it for $900 and Ian fitted it himself. Saving? $567
Q: If I sell my car privately will I get a better price?
A: It is sometimes possible to achieve a higher price with a private sale, however this reduces significantly if your vehicle is not presented correctly and is no longer under warranty. The private buyer today is looking to receive the same benefits they would by purchasing from a Dealer and expect huge reductions in price if they believe they are disadvantaged. Consider preparing your vehicle to the same standards as new car dealers. Look at such items as Safety Certificates, Service, Tyres, Windscreen, Chips and Scratches, Detailing, and Advertising along with the need to be accessible and available at all times including weekends when prospective buyers will want to inspect your vehicle.
It may not be the wise choice to have people you don’t know, coming to your home.
Once the costs and time involved are assessed, most people choose to trade their present vehicle or to use a professional Car Buying Service to ensure they get a good price without the expense or hassle.
Q: Do you allow and/or recommend RACQ Inspections on second-hand cars?
A: Yes, I welcome the RACQ Inspection Process in my business and recognise the need for such an independent examination. Once completed, I’ll discuss the report with you and facilitate any repairs that are deemed necessary. You can arrange for the RACQ to visit my business. I can arrange for them to inspect your choice of vehicle and have them send the report directly to you if you prefer.
Q: Why are dealers so expensive for service in comparison to other service centres?
A: Dealers service and maintain vehicles as set out by the manufacturer’s recommendations to protect your new car warranty. They will generally be willing to match other service providers as long as they are comparing “like for like”.
Your circumstances can be taken into account regarding changing some filters and coolants etc. They also have factory trained technicians and have the support of specialised equipment and of course the proper factory support. There are many other reasons such as resale value, and when it comes to trade-in price, car retailers always look at maintained service books and especially if a dealer has serviced them.
On the other hand, if you’re carefully managing your money, we can arrange a log book service at one of our preferred providers.
Do I need to return my vehicle to the selling dealer for service?
The simple answer is NO!
While dealers may suggest or insist that your new car is brought back to their service department, the reality is:
- You can take your car to any of the brand’s service centres for routine or warranty service. Brand X warranty is covered by the manufacturer, not by the dealer. So if there’s a more convenient location to have your car serviced, take it there.
- Dealers may
suggest that you have to have your car serviced at the franchised dealer to
maintain your warranty. Again that’s a falsehood. You can have your car
serviced by any qualified mechanic or technician, provided that they follow the
service guidelines for your vehicle as specified by the manufacturer
- They should use as a minimum the oil grade specified by the manufacturer and also parts that are of the same quality standard. You shouldn’t use inferior parts. While I would suggest using the manufacturer’s parts, there are similarly high-quality non-genuine parts available on the market. Things like brake pads, brake rotors, air and oil filters, spark plugs and the like are often cheaper and as good quality as those supplied but the manufacturer
How often should I check my Tyre Pressures?
I check my tyre pressures monthly. I have a tyre gauge purchased from Repco that I rely on to check the pressures in my tyres. Arguably, it’s probably better to check your tyre pressures every second time that you fill your fuel tank. High volume petrol centres have good quality air pumps, and it only takes a few minutes to do that after you’ve got your fill.
What should I do if my car breaks down at night?
Firstly, I’m suggesting that you be in a roadside assistance program such as provided by the RACQ.
If you’ve purchased a new car, you’ll have coverage under your new car warranty. Kia Motors Australia provides seven years of roadside assistance in coordination with their warranty. Hyundai and Ford have a 5-year program.
Mitsubishi provides roadside assistance after the first year provided you’re having your services done at one of their dealerships.
If you run out of roadside assistance, best sign up with RACQ or your state motoring body. (NRMA, RACV, etc.) It’s far from sensible to break down on a dark or unlit road and then have to do repairs yourself, particularly for younger drivers.
A phone call from inside a locked car is preferable to having to find a phone booth or a ‘friendly neighbour’ to call for help
Car Insurance?
I get lots of questions when it comes to Car Insurance.
Recently, I needed to renew the insurance on a car. RACQ had quoted over $700 for a 2015 Mazda CX-3 which shocked me a bit.
I shopped around – Budget Car Insurance was around $450 and Youi came out with the best offer at $362. Youi don’t have necessarily the best reputation in the market, according to some people, but having been with them before and making a claim, the experience was ok.
I’m prepared to take the gamble – RACQ need to have a close look at their premiums, particularly for customers who have a clean driving and accident record.
If you’d like to discuss anything to do with purchase, trade-in, private sale, service, warranty issues or just have a conversation about the motor industry in Australia, please give me a call on 0418 748 498 or email to [email protected]
How do I get a better Google My Business listing?
I started improving my Google My Business listing back before everyone wanted to get better results.
In my Volkswagen Dealership, Northstar Volkswagen, I noticed that my dealership would achieve a better result on searches for terms such as ‘Volkswagen Dealer’, ‘VW Dealer’ ‘Best Volkswagen/VW Price’ as the reviews that I received increased in volume and rating
When I sold my dealership in 2015, Northstar Volkswagen had achieved 4.9 stars (from a maximum of 5) based on over 100 reviews.
Now, in 2019, there are companies who have automated reviews for their clients and along with this, those businesses have relatively high star ratings on lots of reviews.
The only concern I have with this is that the reviews are ‘pushed’ by these companies and that the dealer doesn’t reflect at all on the customers who aren’t satisfied.
With ‘Car Business’ I’m doing the process exactly the same way as I did it back in 2015. Here’s a screenshot from the ‘Car Business – Any New Car Cheaper’ Google My Business page.
You can see from the picture above that Car Business has a rating of 4.9 stars from 59 Google reviews and if you drill down further, you’ll see that the reviews are real and that the customers are using their own words and feelings.
If you’d like to grow your business like I have, call me on 0418 748 498 or email me [email protected] I can help you to grow your business online and particularly on Google My Business.
