When it comes to off-road adventures, there is no better companion than an Isuzu. CMH Isuzu Umhlanga recently experienced off-roading at the Killarney 4×4 Track in KZN at the Isuzu Driving Academy, an experience we won’t soon forget. The team had the opportunity to observe the experts at work and then try out their skills!
Here’s what the CMH Isuzu Umhlanga sales team had to say about their day out:
“Before driving the vehicle, we were taken through some of the specs of the vehicle’s 4×4 capabilities: • The radiator space is bigger than its competitors. • The height space between the bonnet and engine components is larger (because in South Africa we have animals on the road, producing much more front-end damage than in Thailand. • The tailgate has three hinges allowing it to hold a weight of 750kg!
During the 4×4 track, where your wheels drive through different level holes, we were quite impressed with how stable we were in the back seat, with little to no sliding. If you stop the vehicle and engage 4L, you can hear the vehicle click over as you press the accelerator. As for the MUX, it handled all challenges without any issues whatsoever.
A Safety tip learned, when in water, take your safety belt off and open windows before entering the river!”- Donna McCulloch, Dealer Principal
“The Killarney 4×4 Track has got some amazingly challenging 4×4 routes, but not challenging enough for our Isuzu vehicles. We went through the toughest terrain with absolute ease and grace. The information that we received from the trainers was a revelation as we don’t always interact with our clients about all the necessary features and capabilities of our 4×4 range the way the experts do.
My favourite part of the day was being able to let the vehicle go downhill all by itself. The vehicle had hill-descent control, which allowed you to travel down steep slopes at 4kph without touching the brakes. You might find it scary, but once you have done it, it’s quite exhilarating!
All my 4×4 training has given me a better understanding of the vehicles’ capabilities. I am amazed at how powerful and capable they are. In addition to giving you confidence in a 4×4 environment, Isuzu vehicles have been adapted to our rigid environment with different shocks, brakes, and tyres.
I’m sure the 4×4 market for Isuzu is going to become a front runner like its Australian counterparts.”- Adrian Van Vuuren, New Vehicles Sales Manager
“What I really enjoyed about the Isuzu 4×4 training with the Isuzu Driving Academy was taking the 4×4 on the different and in some cases quite challenging routes on the South African terrain, but the Isuzu 4×4 showed that no obstacle is too hard for it to overcome. From going up a steep rocky slope and having to make our way down, we then engaged the Hill Descent Control (HDC) to allow for a smooth hill descent at a controlled speed. Changing over from 4×2 into 4×4 is a very simple process and user-friendly with turning the 4×4 switch to 4L without having to come to a complete stand-still and having the vehicle in neutral. The experience was thrilling, and I would definitely recommend it to all proud 4×4 owners!”- Sydney Campbell, New Vehicle Sales Executive
“The presentation of the vehicles was impressive, with touchpoint decals strategically placed around the vehicle to highlight its unique selling points (USP). This is what is commonly called “FAB” (Features, Advantages, Benefits). Listed below are just a few examples. • Hill Start Assist – this prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards on a hill and gives the driver 3 seconds to control the vehicle. • Hill Descent Control – this feature assists the driver in going down a hill by taking control of the vehicle and only requiring steering. The driver relinquishes control of the vehicle to the computerized system. It’s exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. • 4×4 Command dial – This is one of the features that impressed me the most. The driver can engage from 2H to 4H while the vehicle is traveling below 100km/h. The driver does not need to stop to engage. This provides maximum traction and control when you are driving on gravel, sandy, or rocky roads.
Another fact brought to my attention is how many improvements are made to the Thailand vehicles to accommodate uniquely South African conditions, like our heat and cold weather temperatures and dust as a factor. • Radiator size and space is improved. • Turbo and intercooler are totally redesigned for South Africa • Class-leading sheet metal thickness is used on all body panels. • Redesigned and improved suspension • High-density foam sprayed throughout the vehicle to prevent dust from entering the cab
All these lead to our vehicle being one of the best-selling commercial vehicles in the country and prove that Isuzu lives up to its promise of reliability and durability!”- Riaz Fakir, New Vehicles Sales Executive
We always knew that Isuzu vehicles were made of something special, but for us to experience exactly what they can do at first hand, left us in awe. We have sharpened our skills and expanded our knowledge of the 4×4 world and are fully confident that we can assist you at an expert level when it comes to taking on those tough terrains!
For all your Isuzu vehicle needs come on through to your favourite Isuzu dealer, CMH Isuzu Umhlanga where we pride ourselves on customer service and expert advice! 031 502 5565 www.umhlangaisuzu.co.za 06 Sunset Crescent, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga
