The General Grabber AT3 has been selected as the original equipment (OE) tyre for the range-topping models of the all-new seventh-generation Isuzu D-MAX. The award-winning Grabber AT3 is 100-percent OE fitment on the high-specification Isuzu D-Max LSE Extended Cab and Double Cab models equipped with 18-inch tyres, and on the luxurious top-spec D-MAX V-Cross Double Cab derivatives.
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The Grabber AT3, which is supplied in 265/60 R18 110 H specification, is a 50/50 all-terrain tyre, designed for 50-percent on-road and 50-percent off-road driving. This matches the versatility and wide range of driving conditions the Isuzu D-MAX is subjected to in South Africa where bakkies dominate the monthly sales charts, and leisure-oriented models have become the default choice for many active individuals and families.
As a brand of Continental, the General Tire range is produced at Continental Tyre South Africa’s plant in Gqeberha. Its association with Isuzu started in 2015 when the previous-generation Grabber AT was selected as OE fitment for the locally assembled Isuzu KB range, which was subsequently renamed D-MAX. The even more capable Grabber AT3 replaced the Grabber AT on the Isuzu line-up in 2020 – an association that continues with the latest version of this popular vehicle, which is assembled at the Isuzu Motors SA plant, also located in Gqeberha.
“The General Grabber has been the tyre of choice for the Isuzu bakkie range for the past seven years, and we are proud to have our current Grabber AT3 selected as OE fitment for all 18-inch tyres on the all-new Isuzu D-MAX once again,” says Martin Buday, MD of Continental Tyre SA.
“Our locally produced tyres have significant penetration in the important OE segment, as we supply most of the local original equipment manufacturers with our leading-edge Continental and General Tire products,” Buday says. “This signifies the confidence and trust the OEMs have in the performance, safety and quality of our tyres.
“The General Grabber AT3 has won numerous independent tyre tests, with exemplary performance in all driving conditions, from dry and wet roads to harsh off-road terrain,” Buday adds. “This has helped make the Grabber AT3 one of the most popular choices in the replacement tyre sector, as it is renowned for outstanding all-round performance, durability and value for money.”
To achieve OE approval, tyres are subjected to an extensive and rigorous test and development process to ensure that all of the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements are met – encompassing ride refinement, comfort, handling, rough road durability and noise. The close collaboration between the Isuzu engineers and the team from Continental Tyre SA has ensured that the Grabber AT3 delivers on all of these objectives, and retains its status as one of the most capable tyres in the all-terrain segment.
Last year, the Grabber AT3 was also selected as OE fitment on the high-performance off-road Ford Ranger Raptor, adding to this tyre’s impressive list of accolades.
Leading-edge design, exceptional performance.
The General Grabber AT3 features several key technologies that contribute to its outstanding performance in all driving conditions, from high-speed tarmac to punishing off-road terrain. The Grabber AT3 tread design incorporates ‘TracGen’, an open shoulder design with traction ridges for improved grip on all surfaces, and sipes arranged at different angles to enhance water dispersion properties for optimal wet grip and braking performance.
The tyre uses a robust rubber compound called ‘DuraGen’ that provides excellent cut and chip resistance and increases mileage in rough terrain, while reinforced tread blocks reduce deformation. This improves tread life in rugged terrain and maximises stability under load. Ultra-high-strength steel belts ensure an even footprint to further aid stability.
‘ComfortBalance’ technology overcomes the conflicting interests of on-road ride comfort and good off-road grip. The balanced block geometry of the tread, with low stiffness and the specially modified arrangement of the blocks in the centre of the tread, reduces vibration in the tyre for maximum comfort, matched to optimised acoustics for low noise levels.
The General Grabber AT3 is available in an extensive range spanning 15 to 20-inch sizes, as well as standard or Light Truck (LT) specification – the latter designed for heavy-duty applications and additional load requirements. Customers also have the option of 11 sizes that are offered with outside white lettering, satisfying the increasing demand amongst enthusiast bakkie and 4×4 owners.
