Rolling out the mu-X

The mu-X, Isuzu’s replacement for the aging Isuzu Alterra, comes in three variants: the flagship mu-X LS-A, which comes with either four- or two-wheel-drive, both paired with 5-speed automatics; the midrange mu-X LS-M, which has two-wheel-drive and a 5-speed manual; and the base mu-X LS, also with two-wheel-drive and a 5-speed manual.

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The 7-seat mu-X’s rides on independent double wishbones with coil springs and stabilizer in front, and a five-link coil spring-and-stabilizer bar combo in the rear. There’s leather on the seats, steering wheel and door trim, and a 7” touchscreen for the 6-speaker multimedia/navigation system with Aux-in, USB, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity. The mu-X LS-A adds steering wheel audio controls and a 10-inch DVD monitor.

Other premium features include a multi-info display,  dual climate control with rear coolers (automatic climate control for the LS-A), auto door locks, three 12V sockets, 19 storage compartments and 12 cupholders, step boards, and tow hooks. A welcome treat for the eyes are electroluminescent gauges with automatic bright adjust. The mu-X LS-A adds jam protection and timer for its driver side auto up/down power windows, 6-way power driver’s seat, and passive keyless entry with push-button start/stop.

The mu-X’s powerplant has never before used in any local Isuzu. Called 4JK1-TC, this 2.5-liter Euro 2-compliant CRDi diesel engine features a Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbo. It delivers 136 ps at 3,400 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,800 rpm.

The mu-X LS-A is equipped with a four-wheel-drive system that has the 4WD Terrain Command Select Dial, which allows the driver to simply twist a knob to shift from 2H mode to 4H mode at speeds up to 100kph. It rides on a ground clearance of 230mm and 17” alloy wheels with 255/65R tires. It also has four-wheel disc brakes, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

The mu-X comes in Splash White, Silky Pearl White, Cosmic Black, Titanium Silver, Aqua Blue and Outback Brown. Prices are P1.188 million for the mu-X LS M/T 4×2; P1.260 million for the mu-X LS-M M/T 4×2; P1.358 million for the mu-X LS-A A/T 4×2; and P1.748 million for the mu-X LS-A A/T 4×4.