The long-awaited all-new mu-X has just arrived in the local market. It is the second generation of Isuzu’s 7-seater SUV.
“With the introduction of the New Isuzu D-MAX early this year, much anticipation and excitement has been created for the mu-X, which has become one of the leading SUVs in the market, due to its versatility, durability, and over-all reliability,” said IPC President, Hajime Koso. “Finally, the long wait is over, get ready to be impressed and moved with a mu-X that will give you confidence and pleasure to drive. A mu-X that we’ve never seen before, one that will definitely push you further to ‘TAKE THE LEAD’”, he said.
At the heart of the new mu-X is the new 4JJ3-TCX turbo engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrainproduced190 PS of power and 450 Nm of torque for smooth, effortless acceleration even when you need to carry or tow heavy load. On the other hand, specific variants equipped with the RZ4E-TC engine, now has improved performance due to better exhaust emission creating lower levels of noise and vibration as well as further increasing engine reliability and fuel economy.
The chassis of this latest model of the mu-X also now has larger side rails and has been reinforced through an 8-Cross Member design to not just increase torsional rigidity but also safety for added protection in the event of a side or rear collision.Not only that, both front and back suspensions have been redesigned to minimize body rolls when cornering ensuring driver confidence not to mention a more relaxed cabin. Standing at 1,822-mm and is 2,855-mm long, which is 10 mm less and 25 mm more respectively than its predecessor.With its reliable steel underbody protection and a wading depth of up to 800-mm,wherever you plan to go, the mu-X will take charge.
Built to conquer any terrain with ease. The Terrain Command Select Dial lets the driver switch between 2WD-high and 4WD-high whenat 100kphor select4WD-low to further increase traction and control.For off-road enthusiasts, the Rough Terrain Mode bringstheir experience up a notch. It is a driver aid that maximizes drivability when faced with technically challenging and slippery conditions.
On to infotainment and connectivity, the All-New mu-X now has a 10.1-inch full touchscreen display that isApple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible.It also has an 8-speaker system with JVC Kenwood tweeters mounted unto the rear doors, for enhanced sound quality even from the back. Power outlets can be found not just at the lower dash up frontbut now also at the center console with a dedicated rear 220V and dual 2.4A USB charging ports to cater to on-the-go passenger needs for their smart phones or other gadgets.
Luggage spaceis superior in terms of volume capacity – afull-size golf bag can even fit horizontally. Unfolding theseatback is now also more user-friendly due to the optimization of the lift strap position and elimination of the lever lock mechanism. Improvements were also made on the roof rails, for better compatibility with after-market equipment and increased load capacity from 60-kgs to 100-kgs, together with the sidesteps, having wider food tread area for easier entry and exit. The All-New mu-X assures that you have ample space good for 7 adults plus luggage or weekend gear as needed.
Several nifty features that were well received by customers from the All-New D-MAX are carried over to the mu-X. One of which is the Passive Entry and Start System (PESS) that include a Welcome Light, which is triggered when the driver approaches the SUV with the key, the interior light automatically turns on within 2 meters,and a Walk Away Lock, which is activated when the driver leaves the vehicle with the key, the SUV locks automaticallyonce beyond 3 meters.
“Intelligent Safety” was also one of the top priorities in developing the brand-new mu-X, which achieved a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating. Loaded withan array of passive and active safety systems bannered by Isuzu’s Advance Driver Assist System. Commonly referred to as ADAS, it was first introduced in the country through the All-New D-MAX.
Employing state-of-the-art smart duo stereo cameras and sensors that constantly monitor your surrounding environ-ment to alert on potential dangers. The 12 ADAS functions cover pre-crash detection, rear and side assist detecting obstacles, parking aid especially on tight spots and post-crash recognition in cases of unforeseen accidents. They are as follows:
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
•Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Turn Assist
•Mis-Application Mitigation
•Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
•Manual Speed Limiter (MSL)
•Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
•Automatic High Beam (AHB)
•Blind Spot Moni-toring (BSM)
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Parking Aid
•Multi Collision Brake (MCB)