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Isuzu MU-X Facelift: Worthy Rival to Fortuner?

Isuzu facelifted the MU-X in Thailand on June 12th. Isuzu said this update will reach to 60 other countries. Has the Japanese Giant done enough work to take on a head-to-head battle with the mighty Fortuner? Read about it and decide:

About the Isuzu MU-X

The MU-X's base is the D-MAX pickup, which is known around the world for its durability and comfort on bad roads. This underpinning makes the MU-X one of the most capable SUVs in the segment. That in itself has not been enough for Indian buyers, who tend to pick the status-flaunting Fortuner. Isuzu wants to change that with the latest facelift, which includes multiple changes to the looks and features. The 2024 facelift brings a particular RS variant of the SUV. 

New Design of  Isuzu MU-X

The changes in the design of the MU-X start with an updated look at the front. These include a large blackened grille, new headlights with LED DRLS and a sharper-looking bumper. Moving to the side, there are new alloy wheels that go well with the sporty vibe of the SUV.  The rear also gets updated tail lights. The RS has an RS badge on the front grille to set it apart. 

Interiors of Isuzu MU-X 

Isuzu has gone all out on the RS variant when it comes to the interiors. It gets an all-black interior that is contrasted with the red ambient lighting on the dashboard and door panels. Adding to the contrast is the stitching and RS badging on the headrests. All these bits surely shout sportiness. The standard MU-X gets a more classy beige and brown interior. 

Features of Isuzu MU-X

The feature list starts with a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system accompanied by a 9-inch all-digital instrument cluster. The infotainment panel supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Isuzu has added an ADAS suite in the MU-X with features like lane-keeping assist, traffic jam assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear-cross traffic brake. It also gets a surround-view monitor that helps you monitor the vehicle's floor during off-roading.

Powertrain of Isuzu MU-X

The MU-X's engine options remain the same as before. It offers a 1.9L diesel engine producing 148 bhp and 360 Nm torque and a 3.0L diesel producing 187 bhp and 450 Nm of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission handles the transmission duties with no manual option. The top-of-the-line RS model also gets a 4×4 drivetrain.

Do you think this updated model can be a match to the Fortuner?

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TopGear Magazine December 2024