Isuzu MU-X First Look Review

There has been much buzz in India about Isuzu’s latest SUV, the MU-X, ever since it was showcased at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo. And to add to the excitement, the MU-X was spotted testing on our roads while in disguise. But D-day approaches closer and finally Isuzu is all set to introduce the MU-X in India on 11 May. It will become the carmaker’s new flagship SUV in India and replace the ageing MU-7.

The MU-X SUV was first introduced in 2013 and has been on sale in international markets of Australia, New Zealand, Laos, Indonesia and Philippines. The Japanese car-maker gave the SUV a mid-life update recently before it went on sale in Thailand earlier this year. The same spec will make it to our shores. After the upgrade last year, the MU-X now gets LED daytime running lights integrated alongside the projector units. The front of the MU-X gets a horizontally-slatted, two-piece grille with a large Isuzu badging. The headlights sit firmly on the edge of the bonnet giving it a muscular stance. The side profile is typical SUV with three rows, a high roofline and a sharply raked front windscreen and flared wheel arches.

The bumpers have been tweaked with a new roof-mounted spoiler and stylish 18-inch alloy wheels giving the SUV a modern appeal. The roof rails, wrap-around LED taillights and high ground clearance characterise the new MU-X. The overall design philosophy is quite similar to that of the Chevrolet Trailblazer, with which the MU-X shares its underpinning.

The masculine exterior is complemented by a feature rich cabin. The leather wrapped cabin can comfortably accommodate seven passengers.The SUV will get a premium audio system with a touchscreen system paired with six speakers plus two roof-mounted speakers and Bluetooth phone connectivity along with audio streaming and satellite navigation. The MU-X comes with 14 cup holders, steering wheel with integrated audio control, six-way electric driver seat and climate control. The MU-X also comes with foldable seats, thus increasing the luggage carrying capacity.

Safety features in this car will include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, electronic stability control and traction control system. The MU-X will have fairly good off-road credentials as well. Under the long hood, the MU-X will be powered by the top-of-the-line 3.0-litre diesel unit producing 174bhp of power and 380Nm of torque. Transmission options include a six-speed manual as well as a six-speed automatic with 4X4 being a standard option. However, a 4X2 option is also likely to be offered in the base variants.

When launched in India, the MU-X will enter a segment which is currently dominated by the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour, while vehicles like the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Hyundai Santa Fe also pose as tough adversaries for the new MU-X. Isuzu needs to be strategic with its pricing to make a mark with the MU-X in the already subjugated segment. Local assembly at its Andhra Pradesh facility should help in keeping the price in check.