FOR the Japanese carmaker Isuzu, the recent launch of its much-anticipated premium SUV, the All-New MU-X, is the start of a new era for Filipino consumers. Isuzu has always been thought of as a brand that not only provides durability, but advance technological and design features, as well.
Launched in October last year in Thailand, the MU-X is the replacement for the best-selling but outmoded mid-size SUV, the Alterra.
Although the MU-X is shorter than the Alterra, it directly competes with the Mitsubishi Montero, Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest.
According to Isuzu Philippines Corp. President Nobuo Izumina, Isuzu manufactures some of the world’s best diesel-powered vehicles. “While most of these models are reputed for their robust construction, making them ideal workhorses, the same qualities also underlie Isuzu vehicles that are built for leisure, comfort and performance.”
“The all-new Isuzu MU-X is a perfectly stylish example of this, delivering impressive utility that is mixed with a premium driving experience. The Isuzu MU-X, is indeed, something to brag about. Outstanding performance, impressive design, comfort, convenience and global standard safety features—these and so much more are what make the Isuzu MU-X truly ahead above the rest,” Izumina said.
Ready to impress
Versatility stands as one of the strong points of the MU-X. It is designed with ideal dimensions, boasting a spacious cabin within an exterior package that’s easy to maneuver and park.
Sharing the same platform with the Isuzu D-Max pickup, the MU-X offers sophisticated city styling with its premium features, like the 17-inch alloy wheels, projected-type multireflector headlamps, roof rails, center roof antenna, and front and rear bumpers (with integrated backup lamps). The MU-X is targeting those who prefer a stylish and capacious SUV with the driving dynamics of a sports sedan.
State-of-the-art comfort
Interior-wise, the MU-X can accommodate seven passengers comfortably. It has exquisite riding comfort with a special suspension system made up of independent double wishbones with coil springs and stabilizer in front, and a five-link layout with coil springs and stabilizer bar combination in the rear. Bringing the vehicle’s premium feel to a higher level are leather coverings for the seats, steering wheel and door trim, and a 7-inch touchscreen display for the six-speaker multimedia system with aux-in, USB, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as built-in navigation system.
Additional features in the interior include power windows, six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and passive keyless entry with push-button start/stop ignition.
Rear-seat passengers will find no shortage of space as the MU-X boasts of class-leading legroom. The third-row seats can easily be accessed as the second-row seats have a forward-tumble, 60-40-split function.
Brute power
Power-wise, the MU-X is equipped with a new powerplant that has never been used before in any IPC product. The 4JK1-TC 2.5-liter diesel engine is reputed to be one of the world’s most robust engines.
It is fitted with common rail direct injection and an intercooled variable geometry system (VGS) turbocharger, which alters the direction of where exhaust gases flow and optimizes turbine response at low engine speeds, eliminating the delayed power delivery known as “turbo lag,” which is common to non-VGS engines.
The new engine is rated to comply with the Euro-2 emission standards, underlying Isuzu’s commitment to preserving the environment.
Rated to produce 136 ps at 3,400 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,800 rpm, the engine provides plenty of power, translating to less gear changes, effortless hill climbing and easier off-road driving.
Buyers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic with sequential shift function, which makes driving not only more economical but also more enjoyable.
The MU-X is a perfect vehicle for driving off-road, thanks to the 4WD Terrain Command Select Dial, which allows the driver to simply twist a knob to shift from 2H mode to 4H mode even at speeds as high as 100 kph.
World-class safety
Built to conform to the highest safety standards, the MU-X has dual front airbags, door locks that are child-proof and which automatically engage when the vehicle reaches 20 kph, Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) with pretensioner and load-limiter seat belts in all three rows of seats, and side-impact beams inside the doors.
The MU-X is also loaded with active safety systems, such as antilock braking system; electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. Providing more security are the new electronic stability control and traction control system, which automatically engage if the systems detect wheel spin.
Complete package
The all-new Isuzu MU-X comes in three exciting variants. Prices are set at P1.188 million for the MU-X LS M/T 4×2; P1.26 million for the MU-X LS-M M/T 4×2; P1.358 million for the MU-X LS-A A/T 4×2; and P1.748 million for the MU-X LS-A A/T 4×4. Available colors are Splash White, Cosmic Black, Titanium Silver, Aqua Blue and Outback Brown. Units painted in Silky Pearl White will cost an additional P10,000.
Image credits: Chris Kho