Developed together with the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the MU-X is virtually a twin of the familiar seven-seat Chevy. No longer does it look like a pickup with a bed cover. The MU-X of course shares the conservatively handsome lines of the Trailblazer, with headlamps and a grille similar to the new D-Max’s. There’s a generous helping of chrome all around. Isuzu reckons that the MU-X can take on the Everest, Trailblazer, and even the Toyota Prado.
Inside, it’s the Trailblazer template again, with an identical circular climate control cluster and dual glove boxes. The middle row splits 70/30, with fold and tumble feature for access to the third row or for more cargo, but it doesn’t slide forward. The third row seat splits 50/50 and folds forward for more cargo space. Seat material is cloth, with leather seats available.
The audio unit features USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and available GPS navigation. Available roof-mounted drop-down LCD monitor will entertain the second and third-row occupants.
The MU-X packs a 2.5-liter common-rail turbodiesel four-cylinder engine. With variable-geometry turbocharger, it’s good for 136ps and 320 Nm. ABS, EBD, and traction control are standard.
The 2016 Isuzu MU-X is offered in two versions one with the RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine that produces 150 PS at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm at 1,800-2,600 rpm and the other with the 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-litre turbo-diesel motor that develops 177 PS at 3,600 rpm and 380 Nm at 1,800-2,800 rpm. The former is offered with the choice of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Rev Tronic automatic transmission while the latter is available only with the automatic unit.
The salient features of the new Isuzu MU-X include 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with USB, Aux-in and HDMI connectivities, iOS and Android interface and Isuzu Connect World, Kenwood speakers, cruise control, reverse parking camera, video recording function integrated into inside rear view mirror, TFT colour display in instrument cluster, one 220V and two USB ports for the rear occupants to charge their gadgets, leather upholstery and steering wheel wrap in Beige Ivory and Black choices, wood and piano black interior trims, and better sound insulation from traffic noise.