All-new mu: IPC debuts second-generation Isuzu mu-X

MANILA: The much-awaited second generation of Isuzu’s midsize SUV has been finally unveiled by Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC).

The all-new mu-X is being positioned by IPC as a vehicle that “exudes quintessential luxury while retaining the brand’s heritage when it comes to reliability and power.”

Since the debut of the all-new D-Max, which shares a platform with the mu-X, Isuzu fans and observers have been waiting for the inevitable new generation. Underscored IPC President Hajime Koso in a release, “With the introduction of the 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.”

IPC Vice President for Sales Suhiko Oyama said during the media launch that, at its peak, the mu-X peaked with 15% of the midsize SUV segment. That share was gradually whittled down to 5%. With the launch of the all-new mu-X, Isuzu is hoping to regain lost ground with up to 10% of the segment. 

The mu-X stands 10mm lower at 1,822mm and is 25mm longer at 2,855mm than the outgoing generation. Nonetheless, IPC points to a reliable steel underbody protection and a wading depth of up to 800mm. Power-to-weight ratio has also been improved.

According to Isuzu, the all-new mu-X is predicated on two concepts: “robust” and “exclusive.” The former leverages the toughness of its platform sibling D-Max to deliver the values of innovation, performance, and safety, while “exclusive” is said to be “unique to the full-model-change mu-X, symbolizing precision, excellent craftsmanship, and pleasure of ownership.”

Under the hood of the all-new mu-X are the same power plants available to the D-Max. The new 4JJ3-TCX turbocharged engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, delivers 190ps and 450Nm for “smooth, effortless acceleration even (when towing or carrying a) heavy load.” Other variants boast the improved  RZ4E-TC engine, which promises lower emissions, noise level, and vibrations – while boosting engine reliability and fuel economy.

Larger side rails distinguish the chassis of the all-new mu-X, which has also been reinforced through an eight-cross-member design to “not just increase torsional rigidity but also safety for added protection in the event of a side or rear collision.” Body roll has been reportedly lessened through redesigned front and rear suspension systems.

The B-pillars have been moved forward by 25mm, resulting in additional leg room. Assist handles have been affixed for easier ingress and egress through the rear doors. Meanwhile, the C-pillars are now narrower, with the rear quarter bottom glass edge lowered for enhanced driver visibility. The second- and third-row seats are wider and have bolstered cushioning; headrests have better height adjustment while still allowing for child seat mounting.

A Terrain Command Select Dial allows the switching between 2WD-high and 4WD-high when at 100kph or select 4WD-low for increased traction and control. A Rough Terrain Mode, on the other, aids drivers with maximum drivability amid technically challenging and slippery conditions.

Exterior changes on the seven-seater SUV include a new front grille design, and a refreshed rearm, with bolder tailgate badging. Speaking of which, the all-new mu-X features a powered lift gate (standard on the LS-E trims).

Inside, the driver will be welcomed by a smaller (from 382mm to 375mm) leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector. It features a telescopic adjustment of 20mm. Inner door trims along with the door and console arm have been padded with thick, soft materials and are reshaped to maximize occupant comfort. The instrumentation features “crystal-like scales that mimic a finish typically seen on elegant timepieces.”

The all-new mu-X is given 12 cupholders, while its door pocket can accommodate a 1.5-liter bottle. The folding armrest in the second row has a slide-away tray for smartphones or other small items. The third row also provides storage in the dedicated arm rest.

The SUV’s infotainment system is platformed on a 10.1-inch full touchscreen display (said to be the largest in its segment) that is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. The audio finds expression through an eight-speaker system with JVC Kenwood tweeters mounted in the rear doors. The mu-X has power outlets at the lower part of the dashboard, and the center console, with dedicated rear 220V (LS-E only) and dual 2.4A USB charging ports.

A full-size golf back can fit the mu-X horizontally – unscoring the capacity of the vehicle. “Unfolding the seatback is now also more user-friendly due to the optimization of the lift strap position and elimination of the lever lock mechanism,” the company said in a release. It added that “Improvements were also made on the roof rails, for better compatibility with after-market equipment and increased load capacity from 60 kg to 100 kg, together with the sidesteps, having wider food tread area for easier entry and exit.”

The new mu-X has achieved a 5-Star rating from the ASEAN NCAP (New Car Assessment Program). Isuzu said it is “loaded with an 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.”

ADAS uses a smart duo stereo camera plus sensors that constantly monitor the vehicle’s environment to alert the system and the driver to potential dangers. The 12 ADAS functions include: 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 Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Parking Aid, and Multi Collision Brake (MCB).

Three main variants of the all-new mu-X are available: LS (Luxury Style), LS-A (Luxury Style Advance) LS-E (Luxury Style Elegance). IPC extends a three-year/100,000km warranty as standard. Pricing is as follows for the five-trim lineup:

Isuzu mu-X 3.0L 4x4 LS-E AT (P2,450,000),

Isuzu mu-X 3.0L 4x2 LS-E AT (P2,100,000),

Isuzu mu-X 3.0L 4x2 LS-A AT (P1,900.000),

Isuzu mu-X RZ4E 4x2 LS-A MT (P1,770,00), and the

Isuzu mu-X RZ4E 4x2 LS AT (P1,590,000).

The all-new Isuzu mu-X comes in five colors: Marrakesh Brown (new), Satin White Pearl (new), Onyx Black, Mercury Silver, and Splash White. For more information, visit isuzuphil.com.

Photos by Roy Robles, Isuzu Philippines Corporation

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