WHEN this writer, along with several other motoring hacks, was recently invited by Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) to experience paradise for three days in Palawan, I knew that we were in for another unforgettable adventure in an equally unforgettable vehicle.
After trailing the roads for three days in that Busuanga jaunt (in Coron, to be exact) in Isuzu’s flagship model, the 2016 mu-X, I rediscovered what the word “heaven” exactly meant.
Upon arriving in Busuanga airport, our group, headed by IPC President Hajime Koso, were greeted by a fleet of six mu-X vehicles, which IPC shipped a few weeks ahead via 2GO Freight, the official shipping partner of Isuzu for most of its test-drive events in the Visayas and Mindanao area.
I boarded one of the vehicles, in which I was joined by IPC Executive Vice President Takashi Tomita, Dino Ray Directo of Manila Standard and Vernon Sarne of Top Gear Philippines. Looking out my window, I managed to spy at one of the vehicles that were being tested during the event and I have to admit that I was impressed.
For starters, the exterior is a bed of creative expression. The mu-X looks larger than it really is and appears sleek with the new sporty-looking rear spoiler, particularly when paired with the 17-inch Alloy wheels. When it is set against an aesthetic backdrop like Coron, the mu-X is a sight to see.
The interior of this seven-seater sport-utility vehicle (SUV) is pure bliss. Plush, comfortable and convenient are the operative words here. Throw in a little styling just like what Isuzu did with the chrome interior garnishes and the effect is complete. Everything inside the mu-X is logically placed. The instrument panel is easy to read and reach, which makes driving the mu-X a cinch.
When our convoy hit the road, the vehicles really came into their own. Whether the units were on the long stretches of highway around Calauit or on the zigzags and rough roads of Busuanga, they seemed to be in their element.
Through the years, motoring journalists have come to know that any journey with Isuzu is something to remember. On this one, we experienced the great outdoors at the Calauit Wildlife Sancturary, which features a nature’s park filled with giraffes, zebras, gazelles, wild boar, eagles, monkeys, python and the Calamian mouse deer that were seen roaming freely in the area. It was like driving through paradise or the legendary Garden of Eden.
It can be said that we found paradise, too, in the way that mu-X handled its occupants and cargo. It was very comfortable, and I managed to easily doze off occasionally in the rear while supposedly playing the role of backseat driver. We passed through a lot of bumpy roads, but the mu-X gave us an amazingly smooth ride. What added to the vehicle’s comfort was that despite putting two 6-footers in front, and two in the rear, the mu-X still had a fistful of knee and legroom left.
The SUV’s handling and steering was heaven-sent on the twisty roads leading to and from Busuanga’s manmade forest. It was light, sharp and devoid of any nervousness. Confidence is inspired even further by the vehicle’s very strong active safety (read: strong brake/hand-brake grip), the bright headlights and the side mirrors that offer lateral viewing of up to two lanes.
The mu-X 3.0L VGS, with its powerful 4JJI-TC (Hi), can deliver 163 ps (160 hp) and 380 N-m of maximum torque. The mu-X is capable of going on- and off-road effortlessly. The common rail direct injection and an intercooled Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbocharger power train made this vehicle respond better even at low speed and has eliminated lag during turbo boost.
During our special media introduction drive, IPC announced that the 2016 mu-X LS-A Automatic Transmission variant carries the latest in safety and infotainment technology, including the Cruise Control, Hill Start Assist and 8-inch Audio/NAVI/Wi-Fi System. The navigation information is shown on the display while using a source outside Navigation Mode, which is very useful and convenient.
IPC also announced the entry of the LS-A Manual Transmission 2.5L variant, which pretty much has the same features of the LS-A AT 3.0L, such as the Passive Entry and Push Start/Stop System (PESS); Instrument Multi-information Display; Cruise Control; Hill Start Assist; 7-inch Entertainment System; Chrome radiator grille; door handles and side-view mirrors; and Automatic Climate Control System.
On our second day, IPC provided us with sporty shirts by Reebok to help get us into the summer mood, which was enhanced by the fact that, as we went on, the mu-X showed that it can run breezily and efficiently no matter what the road conditions are. Of course, the serene and calm waters of Coron and Kayangan Lake in Palawan did help a lot in putting all of us in a positive frame of mind, too.
Koso expressed his firm belief that the event provided the 2016 Isuzu mu-X 3.0 VGS with a new avenue to show its capabilities that make it the perfect summer getaway vehicle or platform for any thrill seeker. The participants also appreciated the grandeur of the whole-day island tour, took advantage of the picturesque view and enjoyed the relaxing environment with an occasional dip in water.
“This event, mainly complemented by the 2016 Isuzu mu-X 3.0L VGS and this province, has proven its point: that the vehicle is eyed to be close to the heart of every traveler and that its power would keep one’s heart beating fast,” Koso said.
Aside from introducing a new mu-X variant and new features, IPC also revealed an additional color, Obsidian Grey, which will be made available across all variants. “We are proud that this vehicle was brought along this side of the world so that many can enjoy its perks and abilities,” Koso added.
Two days on the beautiful island of Coron with Isuzu’s flagship model showed that paradise can be found in the mu-X, and exploring the different islands of Palawan in it will give you a glimpse of heaven on Earth.