Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
IT may be the last of the highly coveted 4×4 Action Playground series this year, but Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) made sure that the finale was worth remembering. Recently staged at the Limketkai open grounds in Cagayan de Oro, the duo of mu-X midsize sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and updated D-MAX pickup truck once again showcased its indestructible built in the most sensational round ever.
Likewise, IPC tapped off-roading expert Beeboy Bargas and his team to facilitate and demonstrate to the public the extreme obstacles involved.
Commissioned were seven (five mu-X and two DMAX) units of Isuzu’s best-selling utility vehicles—all in 4×4 LS A/T 3.0-liter variants. No less than IPC President Hajime Koso graced the event and shared the very objective behind this successful series of the event. “While both the Isuzu mu-X and Isuzu D-MAX have sophisticated styling and premium interior features, the fact remains that, especially in their 4×4 specifications, these two models are highly capable off-road machines that are designed to traverse extremely rugged terrain. This is the reason behind the Isuzu 4×4 Action Playground series—we want to communicate to consumers the capabilities of Isuzu models by letting them witness and experience them firsthand in a controlled environment,” he said.
On the open grounds, which served as backdrop, was the same towering 20-foot thrill hill utilized from previous events. As usual, there were other obstacles, such as the slipper slope, articulation ramp and the 40-degree transverse-angle ramp. These technical steel hurdles were strategically arranged for the test units to go through. According to Koso, they’ve planned carefully to further develop the show and made sure that every information may reach consumers more efficiently and enjoyably.
During the demonstration, two vehicles alternately went through the initial gradients. We witnessed how both the SUV and truck tackled the methodical ramps to simulate the extreme and punishing off-road conditions. With alternating angular plunges and humps, Isuzu showcased not only the robustness of the frame design but also the flexibility of the dampers corresponding to the path. More so, not even a single wheel elevated off the ground prevented the tough four-wheelers from surpassing the course. This is the advantage of having an ideal approach and departure angles for an added boost in performance against all types of terrain.
Clearly, what was validated, as well, is Isuzu’s steadfast drivetrain in maintaining wheel tractions on the road. Precisely like the manufacturer’s proprietary system 4WD Terrain Command Select Dial, which allow drivers to switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive Low mode with a turn of the electronic knob. And even while the vehicle is on high speeds of up to 100 kilometer per hour, drivers may switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive high mode—on the fly.
Then, when it came to the part where the vehicles drove off to the steep 40-degree ascent of the thrill tower, everyone was left in awe. Impressively, both vehicles managed to crawl slowly and effortlessly until it reached the top portion and again gradually descended totally in control. An uncompromising power down low is what it takes to tackle that kind of slant. Good thing with Isuzu’s new 4JJ1-TC (HI) 3.0-liter diesel engine with common rail direct injection, an intercooler and Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbocharger, you have 380N-m of maximum torque available between 1,800 rpm to 2,200 rpm. Whether your choice is a five-speed manual or automatic transmission with sequential shift function, both are good match to this engine.
Meanwhile, holding the event series culmination in Cagayan de Oro was also a way to recognize the region’s vast contribution to IPC’s various accomplishments. Isuzu Cagayan de Oro has always been one of the top dealerships nationwide. And we were able to meet loyal clients who became successful in their respective trades by utilizing only the best—Isuzu trucks. One is Edgar Burdeos, who’s into the transport business, shared his approval. “So far, my brand-new units have no problems. If I’ll rate it from a scale of 1 to 10, I’d give it the highest score. All passed. In terms of performance, no problem at all. Now I prefer brand-new units,” he said. His business has a total of 60 units of combined light- and medium-duty haulers, set up for transporting chilled and frozen goods. Another satisfied client, Ching Parpa, supplier of homemade food products and condiments, also affirmed his contentment. “I’m proud that I made the right choice. Isuzu trucks are very tough and comfortable. I particularly like the appearance. Also, the interior is spacious and comfy,” he said.
Indeed, the recently concluded 4×4 Action Playground in Cagayan de Oro was worthy of a grand finale. All the visitors, off-road enthusiasts, including the mu-X club members, and all other Isuzu fans certainly had a blast. “We at Isuzu Philippines would like to thank everybody who participated in the series of Isuzu 4×4 Action Playground events. Rest assured the next evolution of this experiential information drive will be more thrilling and relevant to consumers,” Koso concluded.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino