Isuzu MU-7

Synopsis

The Japanese auto giant, Isuzu is all set to enter our Indian car market. MU-7, a globally known SUV will be their first offering. The car aims to take on premium SUVs like Toyota Fortuner and Chevrolet Captiva in India. Let’s try to know more about this Sporty machine.

Exterior

Huge, is the first word that you will probably say after looking at MU-7. The SUV is a giant in terms of size, there is lot of visual mass on this machine. The front face of the car features three layered bumper grille and integrated air dam which is heavily chromed. Its full size headlights also complement the bulky appearance of this SUV while its circular fog lights rests in its front bumper. There are noticeable sharp lines on the bumper which makes it looks sporty. Move to the side of MU-7and then you will come to know about the actual length of it. It’s even taller and longer than Toyota Fortuner. The six-spoke split alloy wheels and chromed door handles and side mirrors add premium touch to this SUV. The tall bulgy wheel arches and side steps give macho character to this car. The rear styling is quite simple yet attractive; it has an integrated spoiler and roof antenna which adds sporty touch to this car. The clear lens tail lights and sharp bumper makes it look like a proportionate car.

Interior

Isuzu will be selling the Thai model of MU-7 in India and it will be featuring all black color themes inside. The seat fabrics, leather and plastic inside will be of black color. Its leather wrapped steering wheel, gear knob and door trims will make it luxurious from inside. Thanks to the extended length of MU-7, it will be offering the best in class comfort inside. Be it for the second row or third row, there will be no issues related to the head, shoulder and knee room.

Comfort and Convenience

The Thai model based MU-7 will feature individual arm rests for front and second row, powerful dual zone climate control, rear AC vents for both rows, electric outside rear view mirrors, cruise control, keyless entry, electrically adjustable seats, tilt and telescopic power steering, reverse camera and many more. It will be one of the most comfortable cars in its segment.

Dashboard and Storage

The feather soft black colored dashboard of MU-7 is not much stylish but looks elegant. The AC vents, central console and instrument panel looks perfectly aligned. The high quality of the plastic buttons being placed on this dashboard are quite soft to touch and can be easily operated. The air-cooled, lockable glove box of MU-7 is quite spacious while there are many other places in this car for storage. Apart from side door pockets, back pockets on seats and cubby holes, there is humongous amount of boot space in MU-7.

Music System

Isuzu MU-7 will be equipped with a company fitted audio system with 10 powerful speakers. There will be screens for rear passengers while it will also feature sub-woofer. You will also get navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity. MU-7 will have steering mounted Audio and Bluetooth controls.

Engine and Gearbox

The Indian version of MU-7 will be powered by a 3.0L, DOHC common rail diesel engine. This engine will be capable of producing a peak power of 160 bhp at 3600 rpm. The torque output of this 16 valves engine is of 360 Nm which ranges from 1600-1800rpm. Isuzu will be offering this SUV with a five-speed manual transmission and four speed automatic transmission.

Acceleration and Performance

You will be glad by the performance of this heavy monster. The manual variant of this car is more fun to drive as you can use its massive torque amount as per your need. MU-7 does 0-100 km/hr in less than 11 seconds which makes it even faster than its rival Fortuner. There is turbo lag evident at low rpms when you drive the auto variant of MU-7 but once you go pass the 2000rpm mark; there is nothing to stop you. The car reaches 150km/hr easily on long runs and shows no signs of vibration and harshness. It’s a very refined engine with well-matched gearbox.

Mileage

Looking at the heavy size of this SUV, you can expect an overall fuel economy of around 10km/ltr.

Safety Features

The car is loaded with safety features like front airbags, parking sensor with rear view camera, auto door lock, engine immobilizer and ESP.

Suspension and Brakes

Isuzu has opted for a double wishbone suspension system to keep this car stable. MU-7 will have ventilated disc brakes at its front while drum brakes will be doing duty at the back. The car will also feature ABS with EBD for accurate braking.

Ride and Handling

Its capable suspension system and fatty tyres provide good grip to this car. The car digests most of the potholes and even with full seating, you would not complain about its suspension system. The car has an extended wheelbase of three meter which is best in class and thus helps it to get stability on highways and around corners. Its high ground clearance of 225mm also plays a vital role in improving its ride quality. It handles quite easily on highways and steers properly but driving this monster in city traffic is a matter of concern. One has to be quite attentive while driving and parking this car in city.

Shades, Variants and Warranty

Isuzu is offering two variants of MU-7 in three different colors. Company is yet to announce the warranty program for MU-7.

Verdict

Isuzu will directly import MU-7 in India and hence it will cost more. The auto variant of MU-7 will cost around INR 25.15 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi (approx., may vary)). This heavy beast is certainly costlier than its rival Fortuner but it’s also more powerful, faster and bigger. It will certainly attract those who are fond of bulky vehicles but we expect the majority of buyers to stick with their favourite, Fortuner due to its high resale value and easy maintenance. We don’t think MU-7 is a complete value for money car right now but in future with a cheaper price tag; it may succeed in India.