Almost exactly ten years after the introduction of the D-MAX pick-up truck, Isuzu Malaysia have launched their highly anticipated 7-seater SUV, called the MU-X. The launch event was held at the Symphony Lake Suite by KLCC and was attended by hundreds of Isuzu’s business partners, staff members and media. The new car, which we drove up Cameron Highlands not long ago (read Part 1 and Part 2 of our drive), comes in at a very attractive promotional selling price of RM146,354.20 (including GST).
This comparatively low price has caused a big wave of interest in Malaysia, and Isuzu have predicted that the car will outsell its initial sales target of 700 by the end of the year.
“There has been a pent-up demand for a vehicle that is able to do it all and yet remain presentable in any environment, then comes the all-new Isuzu MU-X. We anticipate with this level of interest, sales of the all-new Isuzu MU-X may likely reach 1,000 units before the end of this year which will give Isuzu close to 30% of its market segment,” said Kenji Matsuoka, CEO of Isuzu Malaysia.
Both the base model 2WD and the full-spec 4WD (priced at RM 160,210.40) come equipped with a great number of features and are available in four colours – Cosmic Black, Titanium Silver, Uluru Brown, and Splash White. It builds on the venerable Isuzu D-MAX platform, and carries over the pick-up’s strongest traits, including its robust ladder frame, versatile drivetrain and dynamic safety features. These features include ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control.
Let’s not forget that by building on the D-MAX platform, Isuzu also manage to carry over the pick-up truck’s highly efficient drivetrain setup. There is a little more weight on the MU-X, but this is a motor capable of propelling a truck from Bangkok to Singapore in just a single tank of diesel!
Inside it’s more passenger-focused than its sibling, naturally. The all-new Isuzu MU-X’s intelligent space design creates a comfortable environment for everyone and everything. The back seats fold in a variety of configurations allowing owners to mix and match their space either for people or cargo. Even with 7 in the car, there’s still room for a couple of medium sized suit cases or travel bags in the boot. Needless to say, it makes efficient use of its impressive size.
The MU-X goes up against some pretty big names in the market, but definitely has the edge in terms of equipment and pricing. Here are additional stock images to give you an idea of what it delivers.