New 2017 Isuzu MU-X Launched In Malaysia – From RM176,640

Isuzu Malaysia has given its seven-seater MU-X a mid-lifecycle update. Highlights of Isuzu’s latest seven-seater SUV include:

• Bi-LED projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights
• six airbags (up from the previous model’s two)
• Rear fog lamps
• Soft touch cabin materials with faux wood inserts
• New electroluminescent (e-LUMAX) Multi-Information Display (MID)
• Hill Descent Control (HDC)
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 8-speaker infotainment system (up from the previous car’s six)

Powertrain remains unchanged. Under the bonnet is the familiar 2.5-litre VGS commonrail direct injection intercooled turbocharged diesel engine that’s paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift – the same powertrain from the D-Max.

Maximum output is 136 PS at 3,400 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at between 1,800 – 2,800 rpm. The numbers are hardly impressive but as anyone familiar with Isuzu vehicles can attest, Isuzu engines are typically tuned very conservatively, but the relaxed character of the engine makes it supremely reliable.

As before, the new facelifted MU-X is offered in two variants – 4x4 (shift on-the-fly part-time 4x4 system) and 4x2.

Prices (excluding insurance) range from RM176,640 for the 4x2 variant and RM183,000 for the 4x4 variant. That’s quite an increase from the pre-facelift model’s RM151,944 and RM164,969 respectively, but of course, the previous model didn’t have any of the upgrades available in this new model.

Although the MU-X is based on the D-Max, the MU-X features a different five-link suspension with coil springs and stabilizer.

The base model Isuzu D-Max 4x2 (RM176,640) comes with the following features:

• Bi-LED projector headlamps with auto levelling and LED daytime running lights
• Front fog lamps
• Rear fog lamps
• 3-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel with control buttons
• Cruise control
• Automatic air-conditioning
• Air-conditioning vents for 2^nd and 3^rd row seats
• 8-speaker 2-DIN infotainment system with 7-inch touch screen
• Beige leather seats
• 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat
• 6 airbags
• ABS with EBD and BA
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Hill Descent Control (HDC)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Traction Control System (TCS)

The more expensive Isuzu MU-X 4x4 (RM183,000) adds the following:

• 8-speaker 2-DIN infotainment system with 8-inch touch screen
• Roof-mounted fold down rear monitor (for infotainment)
• Terrain Command 4WD system

On top of the 5 years unlimited mileage warranty, the Isuzu MU-X is also covered by Isuzu Malaysia’s 24-hour Doctor Mobile roadside assistance.

As before, the Isuzu MU-X is imported from Thailand.