Isuzu officially launches the MU-X

The second ever passenger vehicle launched by Isuzu is all set to make waves

Size does matter, and Isuzu all-new MU-X is one of the biggest objects you will see on the roads today. And essentially it’s a purposeful re-body of a charmingly styled SUV skin over the bones and legs of Isuzu’s tried and tested D-Max model.

The familiar face has been uplifted by redesigned grille and the front bumper has been reworked now house a swanky fog-lamp and DRL combo in the lower recesses. Bulging bumper create exude a muscular stance along the flanks, while the distinctive Katana feature line now draws itself across a handsome SUV silhouette leading up to the rear haunches. At the rear, the powered tailgate forms a flush fit with rear windscreen which itself wraps around from the sides of the car. The rear lamps also sign-off on an elegant yet functional design.

Inside, the real part-piece in the MU-X is its generous room for seven. There are several flip-and- fold combinations to maximise room within the cabin which sports Anthracite-coloured leather on the seats and door panel inlays. An intelligently packaged second air-condenser within the rear of the cabin allows for independent cooling and single-zone climate control in the front quarters.

Interior tech gizmos include redesigned silver-finished e-Lumax cluster information display, three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel and a Blaupunkt Multimedia infotainment system with GPS, Mirror-link, WIFI, USB and Bluetooth connectivity beaming output to a six-speaker setup.

The safety kit includes the proprietary ABS with brake-force distribution, traction control and Electronic stability control (ESC). Two airbags come as standard in both the variants and there are ISOFIX anchors for the second row as well.

Power comes from Isuzu’s venerable 4JK1-TCX 2.5-litre inline four turbocharged and direct-injected common-rail diesel which outputs 134bhp from 320Nm of torque from as low as 1800rpm. Power is sent through a five-speed auto with sequential shift capability, controlled through a rotary dial. Three switchable modes two-and four wheel high-ratios are switchable on the fly up to speeds of 100kph. A full stop is required to engage the low-ratio four-wheel drive mode.

Two variants and drivetrains are on offer with MU-X 2.5-litre 4x2 starting off at RM147,543 and RM160,210 for the range topper MU-X 4x4 model before you tote up and insurance plan.