Isuzu Crosswind vs Mitsubishi Adventure - Find the better commute option

The Isuzu Crosswind and Mitsubishi Adventure need no introduction in the Philippines. These are the workhorses that have proven their mettle through more than two decades of abuse. These rugged and versatile people movers have truly earned the respect and popularity that they enjoy in the Philippines. Defining the Asian utility vehicle segment, these vehicles are up for whatever task they are put to. Both have diesel engines, can carry seven people or more, and are as tough as nails and just as affordable.

The differences between them though are many. Which is bound to make a head to head comparison between them very interesting.

Performance: Both are pretty evenly matched here. They are powered by a 2.5-litre engine. The Mitsubishi produces peak power of 75 PS at 4200 rpm and peak torque of 149 Nm at 2500 rpm. The Isuzu takes this round by producing an extra 10 PS. The Isuzu Crosswind engine produces a peak power of 85 PS at 3900 rpm and peak torque of 185 Nm at 2000 rpm. Both of them are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Exterior: No we will not talk about their looks here. Both have outdated designs that are more focused on being sturdy and functional than stylish. There are certainly more important aspects. Like the fact that the Isuzu Crosswind at 4480 (L) X 1680 (W) X 1830 (H) mm is only slightly longer than the Mitsubishi Adventure at 4420 (L) X 1650 (W) X 1800 (H) mm. The same scenario is faced when comparing their ground clearance. Both the Isuzu (185mm) and the Mitsubishi (180mm) have enough ground clearance to trudge over anything that might obstruct their path. The Crosswind (205/65 R15) however rides on larger tires than the Adventure (185/80 R14). Wheelbase for the Isuzu (2680mm) is also more than that for the Mitsubishi (2620mm). Combined the Isuzu is longer, rides higher, and has slightly more space inside. These small advantages do make for a noticeable difference in the space and the ride quality, giving this round to the Isuzu again.

Interior: The AUV nature of these vehicles does not mean that they are lacking on modern features in the interior department. Both of the vehicles are indeed equipped with touchscreen infotainment units equipped with all the usual modern connectivity options. The screen on the Adventure however is slightly smaller than the one in the Crosswind at 6.8-inch compared to 7-inch.

Four out of five Crosswind variants however come with six instead of four speakers while the same goes for two out of three Adventure variants. There is enough space inside both to seat nine or even ten passengers comfortably with enough leg and shoulder room. The Mitsubishi interior is a little more refined with lower levels of NVH from the engine getting into the interior. However, the Isuzu interior comes better equipped from the dealer with dual air conditioning.

Safety: Both the AUVs use ventilated disc brakes for stopping duties on the front and drum brakes on the rear wheels. They also come with three point seat belts on the front seats and lap belts for the second row. Child proof locks also appear on both spec sheets. But that’s it. There are no airbags or any other advanced safety features like ABS. The Isuzu can be equipped with a rear camera and the higher variants can be equipped with reverse sensors.

The Mitsubishi Adventure for all its shortcomings manages to be cheaper at its price between Php 952000 and Php 1010000. The Isuzu, on the other hand, is a bit more expensive with its price range falling between Php 1260000 and Php 1345000. Is this massive difference in price worth what you get? Only you can decide. But no matter what you choose, you will end up with a war horse that will take all the punishment you can dole on it.