Isuzu is not a company that is known for many models in Malaysia. Even in Thailand, they have a spread of two models in the range, albeit with enough variants to cater to a huge number of market segments. And yet, despite this, they manage to hold a significant portion of the market- even with established models like the Hilux leading the pack.
A lot of this is down to good management. And in the case of Isuzu Malaysia, it’s time to hand over the reins to a new CEO: Kenji Matsuoka. Matsuoka, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Mie University will assume the position on April 20th 2015, replacing Kimitoshi Kurokawa who returns to Isuzu Motors Limited, Japan.
In addition to taking on this new roll, Matsuoka also revealed that the company will continue to expand its range with added variants of Isuzu vehicles to meet the specific needs and desires of customers including the Isuzu MU-X, an infinitely-capable 7-seater that will soon make its Malaysian debut.
The introduction of the MU-X is a massive step up from having to subsist on selling the D-Max alone. While the urbanisation of pick-up trucks is clearly evident as more consumers choose pick-ups as lifestyle vehicle, nothing can compete with a properly designed SUV that actually sports a third row in favour of an open cargo bed.
Prior to joining Isuzu Malaysia, Matsuoka held the position of CEO at Isuzu-Hicom Malaysia (IHM), a position he assumed in 2012 after spending four years as the CEO of Isuzu Vietnam Co Ltd. Suffice to say, he has some experience when it comes to the Malaysian market, with it’s intricacies and idiosyncrasies.
