Isuzu MU-X

Overview

Isuzu Motors introduced the MU-X compact SUV in India during May 2017. In October 2018, the company unveiled a facelifted version of the automobile having a few cosmetic tweaks while the overall design mostly remains unchanged. There are two variants of MU-X currently available in India- 2WD and 4WD options. The most striking feature of this 7-seater full-size SUV is its 3.0Litre Turbo Hi-Power engine offering excellent off-roading abilities. You can avail this vehicle in six attractive colors- Cosmic Black Mica, Obsidian Gray Mica, Titanium Silver Metallic, Orchid Brown Mica, Ruby Red Mica, and Silky White Pearl.

Exterior

Isuzu Motors is known all over the world for their SUVs which have a robust build, stylish body, and practical fittings. MU-X is no different and presents a rugged and bold exterior look with two-slate chrome grille in the front fascia. The ISUZU badging is smartly placed in the center of the grille and is flanked on both the sides by projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights. The SUV also sports a stylish dual-tone bumper along with a high rising bonnet. The fog lamps have also turned more attractive with the new chrome inserts. The MU-X also gets new 18-inch diamond-cut alloys for improved ground clearance boasting its off-roading genes. The rear end manifests reworked tail lamps adding character to the vehicle.

Interior

The cabin of MU-X also offers a premium touch with leather upholstery and Lava Black dashboards with silver inserts breaking the monotony. You mostly get soft-touch plastic in the interiors reflecting the refined taste of Isuzu. The driver seat is ergonomic and has 6-way electrically adjustable features. One striking feature of this facelift is the omission of the 10-inch roof mounted screen which was present in the outgoing model. Now the 7.0-inch touchscreen unit takes care of the infotainment with Bluetooth, Aux-in and USB connectivity. However, it still lacks Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support which should have been present being a premium SUV.

Engine

Under the hood of MU-X, you get a 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 4-cylinder engine generating 174 bhp at 3600 rpm maximum power and a peak torque of 380 Nm at 1800-2800 rpm. The motor remains mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission having 4x4 Terrain Command with a shift-on-fly option. Though the engine offers a fair bit of turbo lag, there are enough grunts for rapid overtaking maneuvers on the highways. The safety features are also incredible with six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill start assist with traction control, and hill descent control.

Price and Competition

Isuzu MU-X is available in India at a starting price of INR 26.34 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the 4x2 version. It may go up to INR 28.31 lakh in the 4X4 variant. It offers fierce competition to Ford Endeavour, Toyota Fortuner, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

Pros and Cons

•         The SUV has an attractive design and sturdy built. The redesigned grille and bumper offers a sporty look to MU-X.
•         The 3.0-liter turbo diesel gives dominant performance churning out 174 bhp and 380 Nm of torque.
•         There are excellent safety features including six airbags, ABS with EBD, Hill start, hold and a decent assist.
 

•         The infotainment system is lagging on the navigation features. It does not have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support.
•         Isuzu has a smaller presence in India after sales services need to be improved.
 
Finally, we can say MU-X is a full-size SUV with impressive styling along with powerful drivetrain having a shift-on-fly 4WD option for better off-roading abilities. It is worth considering if you wish to own a premium SUV under INR 30 lakhs.