Isuzu’s answer to the Ford Endeavour and Toyota Fortuner, the MU-X, replaces the MU-7 in the automaker’s portfolio. The SUV derivative of the D-Max V-Cross pick-up, the MU-X, offers seating for seven and is available in two- and four-wheel-drive versions.

Powering Isuzu’s new flagship SUV is a 177hp, 3.0-litre, turbo-diesel engine paired to a five-speed automatic gearbox as standard. In contrast to the Endeavour, which is a full-time four-wheel-drive SUV, the 4x4 MU-X features a shift-on-the-fly system that allows users to choose between 2WD High, 4WD High and 4WD Low modes. Isuzu claims that the two-wheel-drive variant can return 13.8kpl, while no figures have been revealed for the four-wheel-drive.

The MU-X is available in two variants – 4x2 (Rs 23.99 lakh) and 4x4 (Rs 25.99 lakh) – with both models having a near-identical equipment list, with the biggest difference being the 4x4 hardware and a protector plate for the transfer box.

Equipment offered includes projector headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, fog lamps, leather upholstery, six-way power adjust driver seat, one-touch fold and tumble seats in the second and third row, auto climate control, rear air con vents with separate controls, keyless entry and go, electric adjust and folding wing mirrors, 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eight-speaker audio system with roof-mounted speakers, 10-inch roof-mounted DVD monitor, and cruise control.

In terms of safety both variants of the MU-X come with dual front airbags, ABS, stability control, traction control, Hill start assist, ISOFIX child seat anchor points and a reverse camera.

The MU-X’s pricing also makes it one of the most affordable SUVs in the segment with pricing below the Fortuner (Rs 28.26 – 31.86 lakh) and Endeavour (Rs 26.63 – 31.50 lakh) and just about Rs 4,000 more than the Chevrolet Trailblazer (Rs 23.95 lakh).

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