Story & Photos by Patrick P. Tulfo
ISUZU Philippines Corp. (IPC) recently launched two new limited editions of their best-selling D-Max pickup and the lone entry in the midsize SUV segment, which is the mu-X, at the Solaire Hotel and Casino.
Dubbed as the D-Max X-series and the mu-X Luxe, the two new offerings will be sold alongside their current offerings in the pickup and SUV segments.
But buyers who want to get their hands on these new models should placed their orders immediately as according to Joseph Bautista, sales division head, these two variants will be produced in limited quantity—less than a thousand units to be exact.
During the launch, IPC President Hajime Koso said, “Keeping our lineup fresh is the key to the very demanding market, especially for the pickup and SUV segment. To keep up with the competition, we are offering two new variants, which are designed to exude the more aggressive and luxurious side of the D-Max and mu-X models.”
In a separate interview after the launch, he added, “We like to sell our products to the younger generation, that’s why we came out with these two new variants. But there is a distinct possibility that it will became a regular offering in the market if we are able to meet the target,” he said smiling.
The D-Max X-series and the mu-X Luxe boast of new exterior and interior upgrades. The D-Max X-series now has a black radiator grill that accentuates the red Isuzu logo in the middle. The front and rear skirts, which greatly aid the pickup’s aerodynamics, also have a deep red accent.
The color-keyed sleek cargo spoiler, matte-black roof rails and red fog lamp garnish together with the new black 18-inch with red accent on them complete the aggressive look.
Inside, the rocker plate with an illuminated red Isuzu logo can be seen immediately as you open the door. And finally, multiple USB ports were added for the power-hungry gadgets of this generation.
Meanwhile, the mu-X still gets a further upgrade via light-gray fender flares that do not only enhance its looks but, more important, protect the body from rocks and debris.
But buyers of the Luxe edition will surely appreciate the power liftgate feature that opens the rear door at a touch of the button, this makes for a hassle-free cargo loading.
“The power liftgate feature was specifically developed for the Philippine market, as based on our observation, most mu-X owners use their SUVs for shopping that’s why we developed the new feature with the mall security guards in mind who always open the tailgate when inspecting the vehicle,” according to Bautista.
The premium interior gets a new illuminated scuff plate, but the new 3D surround sound system, that is reminiscent on the one found on Alterra, is the most welcome upgrade for this series. This completes the overall luxurious experience, whether one is driving or riding the new mu-X Luxe.
Both variants are still powered by the reliable 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-liter diesel engine with Blue Technology introduced last year. It produces 177 horsepower and 380 N-m of torque and now complies with Euro-4 standards, which took effect this year.
The D-Max X-series and the mu-X Luxe are only available with a 4×2 drivetrain and are competitively priced with the D-Max equipped with M/T at P1.355 million, the A/T variant going for P1.420 million. The mu-X is only available with an automatic transmission is priced at P1.895 million. There are only two colors available for the D-Max X-series, which are black and white, while the mu-X Luxe is available in red.
Image credits: Patrick P. Tulfo