Isuzu’s MU-X Monster All Set For The Borneo Safari

Isuzu’s MU-X seven-seater lifestyle SUV is all set for the jungles of Sabah, as it takes on the 2016 Borneo Safari International Offroad Challenge, which takes place from the October 30 till November 6 of this year.

For the first time, one unit of modified Isuzu MU-X `Monster’ will spearhead Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd’s four vehicle team to take on the unforgiving jungles of Sabah in the 26th edition of the largest and most established modified 4X4 event in Asia. The Isuzu MU-X "Monster' is joined by three other D-Max trucks in this year's expedition.

This year’s Borneo Safari would be one of the toughest yet. The organisers have set a route that runs along the base of Mount Kinabalu and stretches across the districts of Ranau and Kota Marudu, including nearly 40 km of hardcore trails comprising mainly abandoned logging trails and several river crossings.

The modifications to the Isuzu MU-X were limited to the exterior, and the addition of other functional equipment such as the fitment of a breather snorkel and winch system. The 2.5-litre VGS turbo Intercooler diesel engine that is matched to a 5-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift remains stock standard.

Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd Executive Director Hajime Machimura added, “Although it is a lifestyle SUV, the Isuzu MU-X shares the same tough DNA as our Isuzu D-Max pick-up, which has repeatedly proven itself in every edition of Borneo Safari since its debut in 2005.”

Isuzu returns as a Diamond Sponsor for the 2016 Borneo Safari, Faez A Nordin, President of the Sabah Four Wheel Drive Association commented, “We are thankful that Isuzu has been supporting the event for the past 10 consecutive years. Their unwavering support is one of the key reasons why we have been able to grow this event from strength to strength. We have 400 participating vehicles this year, which is the highest in the history of Borneo Safari. And the number keeps going up every year!”