Isuzu today launched its MU-X SUV in India at a starting price of Rs 23.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The SUV is available in two variants – 4x2 and 4x4 – with the latter priced at Rs 25.99 lakh.

The MU-X borrows design cues from the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross and features a rugged front end, along with heavily flared front and rear fenders that give it a dominating stance. Other exterior highlights include double slat chrome grille, 17-inch wheels, LED daytime running lamps and roof rails.

Under the skin, the SUV comes with a 177hp, 3.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission sending power to either two or all four wheels. The motor has a torque rating of 380Nm at 1,800-2,800rpm. The 4x4 model additionally get a shift-on-the-fly operation for the four-wheel-drive system, which gives the option to select two-high, four-high and four-low ranges. The MU-X also comes with uphill and downhill drive control. Isuzu claims that the 4x2 model can deliver 13.8kpl. 

Just like the exterior, the cabin borrows cues from the V-Cross pick-up truck. The interior consists of soft leather bits and features such as climate control, cruise control, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, a roof-mounted 10-inch DVD monitor, and cruise and audio controls on the steering wheel.

Safety features in the SUV include traction control, ABS, EBD and ESC and rear parking camera. In terms of dimensions, the MU-X measures 4,825mm in length, 1,860mm in width, 1,840mm in height and a wheelbase of 2,845mm.

Isuzu recently unveiled a facelifted version of the MU-X internationally, equipped with larger 18-inch wheels, a higher torque rating of 430Nm, a six-speed automatic gearbox and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. However, it is the pre-facelifted model which has been launched in India.

The MU-X goes up against established rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner and the Ford Endeavour.

In terms of pricing, the MU-X significantly undercuts the Fortuner and the Endeavour with prices for the two starting at Rs 28.26 lakh and Rs 26.63 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom, Delhi) respectively, for the entry level 4x2 diesel variant.

Want to find out how the Isuzu's spec-sheet stands against that of its rivals? Check out our Isuzu MU-X vs Toyota Fortuner vs Ford Endeavour specifications comparison here.

Take closer look at the new MU-X in our image gallery.