ISUZU Gencars Makati launched two new variants of their best-selling pickup and sport-utility vehicle (SUV) on November 21. The latest additions to its lineup of reliable vehicles the 3.0-liter variants of the D-Max and the mu-X, respectively.
The 3.0-liter mu-X and D-Max were recently introduced by Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) to answer the clamor of Isuzu loyalists for a more powerful engine. The new 4JJ1-TC (HI) four-cylinder common rail direction intercooler engine with Variable Geometry System turbo is now rated at 163 hp and 380 Nm of torque. The more powerful engine now offers faster acceleration and increase towing payload for those who will buy the 3.0-liter variant.
IPC Vice President for Sales Daisuke Inaba, who was the guest of honor, said, “The new model though will not be replacing the current 2.5-liter engine that powers both the D-Max and the mu-X. Isuzu had registered record sales with this engine even before the introduction of the new variant.”
The 2.5-liter 4JK1-TC (HI) common rail direct injection intercooler engine also with Variable Geometry Turbo System rated at 136 hp and 320 Nm of torque will be sold alongside the new 3.0-liter variant. In an interview during the launch, Gencars Vice President for Sales and Marketing Rosabel Dimacuja said, “We do not see the 3.0-liter variant competing with the sales of the current 2.5-liter model. The new variant is for those who do a lot of off-roading and hauling—activities which require a powerful engine. We see the current 2.5-liter variant as the choice of families, who rarely venture off-road.” She added that the main selling point of the new variant, aside from its power, safety and fuel economy, is its competitive pricing.
The highlight of the program was a mini-launch of sorts with a D-Max being driven into the Isuzu Gencars Makati showroom, where the program was held, and the removal of the cover of the mu-X parked in the corner of the huge venue.
Another highlight of the program was the presentation of the replica of the popemobile by Gencars Managing Director D. Edgard Cabangon to IPC, which was received by Daisuke Inaba in behalf of the company.
Gencars generously provided Pope Francis with his official vehicle (a modified D-Max pickup) now known as the popemobile, when the pontiff visited the country in January. The said model is now in the Vatican and is used by the pope on his official visits.
Potential buyers milled around the D-Max and mu-X after the unveiling and closely examined the new engine, as well as the interior of two vehicles with the mu-X getting the lion’s share of admirers. After the program, everyone was treated to a sumptuous feast, while being serenaded by a singing duo.
The price of the new 3.0-liter mu-X starts at P1.398 million for the 4×2 LS-A AT all the way to P1.718 million for the top-of-the-line 4×4 LS-A AT. The D-Max 3.0 starts at P1.09 million for the 4×2 LS with manual transmission and goes up to relatively cheap P1.430 million, top-of-the-line 4×4 LS AT. And lest we forget, aside from the D-Max and the mu-X, the venerable Crosswind is also available for those who want one.
Isuzu Gencars Makati is conveniently at 2113 Chino Roces Avenue corner Dela Rosa Street.
Image credits: Alysa Salen