THE wait is over as the much-anticipated All-New Isuzu MU-X SUV is about to be launched to the local market. Isuzu Malaysia’s latest flagship model comes loaded with advanced technological and design features, making this premium SUV truly “Ready to Impress.”

It is well known that Isuzu manufactures some of the world’s best diesel-powered vehicles and while most of these models are reputed for their robust construction, making them ideal workhorses, the same qualities also underlie Isuzu vehicles that are built for leisure, comfort and performance. The All-New Isuzu MU-X is a perfectly stylish example of this, delivering impressive utility that is mixed with a premium driving experience.

Impressive styling

The All-New Isuzu MU-X is designed with ideal dimensions, boasting a spacious cabin within an exterior package that’s easy to manoeuvre and park. Every contour and character line adorning the vehicle’s body is the result of aerodynamic development, contributing to fuel efficiency.

Besides a wind-cheating form, the All-New Isuzu MU-X’s body also flaunts premium features like projector-type multi-reflector headlamps, center roof antenna, color-keyed front and rear bumpers (with integrated back-up lamps) and roof rails that can support 60 kilograms of cargo. The vehicle’s higher variants add fog lamps and chrome radiator grille, hood garnish, door handles and tailgate garnish. Also finished in chrome are the power-folding side-view mirrors, which have integrated turn signal lamps.

Class-leading comfort

The All-New Isuzu MU-X’s spacious interior can accommodate seven passengers comfortably. Its car-like riding comfort starts with a specially developed suspension system made up of independent double wishbone with coil springs and stabilizer in front, and a five-link with coil springs and stabilizer bar combination in the rear. Bringing the vehicle’s premium feel to a higher level are leather coverings for the seats, steering wheel and door trim, and a seven-inch touchscreen display for the six-speaker multimedia system that has aux-in, USB, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as built-in navigation.

More premium features make it to the All-New Isuzu MU-X. These include dual climate control with rear coolers, speed sensing door locks, three 12-volt accessory sockets, a total of 19 storage compartments and 12 cupholders, a lockable and illuminated glove box, side step boards, and tow hooks. Literally a welcome treat for the eyes are the vehicle’s electroluminescent instrument meters that have automatic bright adjust integrated with the useful Multi-Information Display (MID) panel.

The MU-X LS-A raises the bar even more with jam protection and timer for its driver side auto up/down power windows, six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and passive keyless entry with push-button start/stop ignition.

Rear seat passengers will find no shortage of space as the All-New Isuzu MU-X boasts of class-leading legroom. The third-row seats can easily be accessed as the second-row seats have a forward-tumble, 60/40-split function.

Outstanding performance

As a completely new model, the Isuzu MU-X is equipped with the 4JK1-TC 2.5-liter diesel engine which is reputed to be one of the world’s most robust. It is fitted with Common Rail Direct Injection and an intercooled Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbocharger, which alters the direction of where exhaust gases flow. This optimizes turbine response at low engine speeds, eliminating the delayed power delivery known as “turbo lag,” which is common to non-VGS engines.

The new 4JK1-TC engine also furthers Isuzu’s core values of being reliable, durable and fuel-efficient. Its lifetime steel timing chain and anti-friction melt-in cylinder liners are among its advantages that ensure durability. It is rated to comply with our Euro-2M diesel fuel. Rated to produce 136PS at 3,400 rpm and a high 320Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,800 rpm, the engine also provides plenty of power, translating to less gear changes, effortless hill climbing and easier off-road driving.

Matched to the new 4JK1-TC engine is either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic with sequential shift function, which makes driving the All-New Isuzu MU-X not only more economical but also more enjoyable.

Going off-road is also a pleasurable and safe experience with the All-New Isuzu MU-X. Besides tough mechanical components, the MU-X LS-A is equipped with a four-wheel-drive system that has the 4WD Terrain Command Select Dial. This feature allows the driver to simply twist a knob to shift from 2H mode to 4H mode even at speeds as high as 100kph. The All-New Isuzu MU-X’s excellent ground clearance of 230mm and 17” alloy wheels with 255/65 R17 tires further boost the vehicle’s off-road driving capabilities.

World-class safety

The All-New Isuzu MU-X is built to conform to the highest safety standards. The vehicle’s projector headlights, high-mount LED stop lamps and available fog lamps ensure visibility on the road. Equally helpful in this regard are the two-eye reverse sensing system and available reverse camera.

Passive safety systems fitted to the All-New Isuzu mu-X are dual front airbags, door locks that are child-proof and which automatically engage when the vehicle reaches 20kph, Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) with pre-tensioner and load-limiter seatbelts in all three rows of seats, and side impact beams inside the doors.

The All-New Isuzu mu-X is also loaded with active safety systems. Its disc brakes in all four wheels have an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that has Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Providing more security are the new Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS), which automatically brake a wheel or wheels if the systems sense any of these are slipping. This prevents skidding and loss of steering control, helping reduce fatal accidents by as much as 30%.