Keep Your Fingers Crossed! A Hopeful 2016 mu-X Entry at MIAS

MANILA: Though Isuzu has many warriors built under its Japanese roof, but two amongst them have successfully created a place in the global auto-field. Any guesses on the names ? Well, we are talking about the mighty Isuzu SUV, the mu-X and its rugged yet efficient pickup, D-MAX. All of ISUZU's global ranking, its sales figures and loyal customer base can be solely attributed to the above mentioned two names. Thus, it's no surprise that Isuzu is now and again working towards their revamped versions.

One such update recently presented to the global market was in the form of an all-new mu-X. Thai market being its first recipient, where the car stepped its foot at the recently wrapped Bangkok International Motor Show. And the revisions made on the car are not just for namesake but reflects some prominent changes both on and under the skin.

As for now the entire nation is waiting for just a week ahead, country's biggest motor show, the 2016 MIAS. And keeping in line with our neighbours, we too are expecting the updated mu-X to step its foot in the Philippines. The same country that has given Isuzu some of its best sales years. Also, who knows that along with an updated mu-X, a new D-MAX also comes surprising all.

Peeping information from its Thai-released spec we can see that Isuzu has now replaced the dark grey bumper cladding with a lighter one (better looking, for sure) accompanied by a slightly revised grille. Another major change comes in the form of rather stylish 17-inch alloy wheels replacing the old boring design.

On the exterior front, the changes are restricted to only the heads, with interior ranking rather high on the reform front. The new mu-X is designed on a slightly quieter note, as it is stuffed with more sound softening material, ensuring a smooth and noise free ride. Cabin beautification is enhanced with Nature Touch decorative wood and Piano black inserts that go well with both ivory and black upholstery (available as per variants).

Entertainment and connectivity features also gets a hike with 2016 mu-X. So, now get ready for smarter inserts like 8-inch touchscreen audio system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, built-in car video recorder, reverse camera and more.

Justifying its X badging is the new powertrain that though is smaller than before but is efficient than the prior. All new mu-X now comes powered by a Blue Power equipped 1.9L Ddi engine, code named RZ4E-TC. With its curved combustion chamber, carbon coated injector and graphite wrapped piston, the said engine churn out a maximum power of 150 PS along with peak torque of 350 Nm. In the Thai market, the new engine came as a replacement to the long-running 2.5L mill while the 3.0L will continue to be power mu-X. As for the Philippines market, we are clueless whether the new engine will come as a companion or replacement to the running 3.0L 4CYL DOHC diesel engine.

Safety measures have also been tightened for this new version. No matter whether you pick the base or top trim, Isuzu is offering all safety features as standard. To the added list are included traits like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, Traction Control, ESC, and Hill Start Assist.

That's not all, mu-X in its new avatar has come out as a nature lover. The SUV no has reduced its fuel diet by 19% along with a 161g limited CO2 emission per kilometer.

Seeing all these upgradations and advancements, we can only hope to see the 2016 model year badged mu-X staging at the Isuzu Philippines MIAS booth.

Also Read: Isuzu Philippines Fuel Efficiency Test Reveals Aspiring Facts