Off-road champion
THE seven-seater Isuzu mu-X lifestyle SUV made a memorable debut in the Borneo Safari International Offroad Challenge 2016 when it won the Vehicle of the Year Award.
According to Borneo Safari’s organising committee chairman Faez A. Nordin, this year’s event was the toughest in 12 years.
The rainy weather caused a two-day delay as the nearly 430-strong convoy struggled with slippery and muddy conditions as well as numerous steep uphill and downhill slopes that tested driving skills to the limit.
“The Isuzu mu-X performed flawlessly even in the ultra-tough hardcore section of the trail that stretched some 30km from the entrance arch near Kampung Garung to Timberwell Camp, which took three days to complete.
“It did not require any change of spare parts or repairs, which speaks volumes of its quality and reliability,” said Faez. Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd’s executive director Hajime Machimura expressed delight that the Isuzu mu-X Monster made a successful debut and emerged with its reputation enhanced.
The three battle-hardened Isuzu D-Max Monsters that accompanied the mu-X Monster also successfully completed the challenge.
“This ‘proven at Borneo Safari’ badge is one that every Isuzu can wear with pride. It is also timely as we have just launched our refreshed range of D-Max and mu-X,” he said.
Modifications to the Isuzu mu-X were limited to the exterior as the 2.5-litre VGS (variable geometry system) turbo intercooler diesel engine matched to a five-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift remained stock standard.
Isuzu Malaysia sponsored the Borneo Safari for the 10th consecutive time this year and the company has pledged to continue supporting the premier international off-road challenge in the region for years to come.
For more information, visit www.isuzu.net.my.