A lot more under its skin
> With a strong badge and proven powertrain, Isuzu’s SUV should regain old fans and make new ones…
the aforementioned 18-inch alloy wheels to complement what Isuzu describes as the mu-X’s “prestigious look”.
Other touches to further enhance the exterior are bi-LED projector headlights in blue light spectrum, LED daytime running lights (DRL) and new rear foglights. The former improves driver vision during night driving and reduces driver fatigue due to the blue spectrum light range. The headlights also auto-level to keep light projection in the optimum direction as the SUV’s occupants add weight to it.
The mu-X’s interior has soft surfaces for a “majestic feeling”, with wood pattern panel at the door trim and front dashboard, complemented by an elegant centre graphic and new design electroluminescent meter panel with multi-information display, new refined quilt pattern leather seat and eightspeaker infotainment system. This variant has an eight-inch DVD touchscreen which comes with a fold-down monitor for second and third-row occupants, while the 4x2 version has a seven-inch DVD touchscreen. More equipment include electricallyoperated folding wing mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, roof rails, electric release tailgate, side steps, second and third-row cooling vents with fan speed control, eight-speaker sound system, speed-sensing automatic door lock, bucket support front seats with six-way electric driver’s seat adjustment, 60:40 split folding second-row seats with centre armrest and cup holders, 50:50 split folding third-row seats, tonneau cover, cargo organiser box, parking guide and four reverse sensors. Working with the aforementioned six airbags are the mu-X’s array of safety features which include anti-lock brake system (ABS), traction control system (TCS), electronic stability control (ESC), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA) and hill start assist (HSA), among others.
Aside from Havana Brown Mica, the mu-X comes in three other colours – Silky White Pearl, Titanium Silver Metallic and Cosmic Black Mica. Whatever shade you choose, expect to pay RM183,000.40 for the 4x4 variant and RM176,640.40 for the 4x2 (individual private registration, without insurance and with GST).
Isuzu Malaysia is confident that the new mu-X will satisfy those looking for a sophisticated vehicle outlook and yet able to safeguard their safety, while at the same time impresses with its excellent features.
“It represents an outstanding balance between sporty good looks and a rugged, tough seven-seater SUV,” said the company, which also said that the thousands of hours spent by Isuzu’s engineers in refining the mu-X had resulted in this “pinnacle engine build”, where it dared to provide five years’ unlimited mileage warranty.
The mu-X may find it a bit tricky to compete with its nearest rivals that have snazzier exterior and interior, and more nifty features and gadgets, and even more attractive pricing too.
However, the renowned Isuzu quality and reliability, plus the novelty of not being commonly seen on our roads, can be more than enough to offset those disadvantages, as long as the public is willing to look past all that eagle-face and “majestic feeling”. That part is where Isuzu’s sales team have to really educate potential customers on.