- Isuzu MU-X is the SUV version of the popular V-Cross lifestyle pickup truck in our market.
- The 2023 version comes with significant changes that make it the perfect Toyota Fortuner rival.
- The latest version has been showcased at the Thai Auto Expo.
The 2023 Isuzu MU-X could be a perfect rival to the Toyota Fortuner. Fortuner is the most popular product in our market for a long time. The MU-X got a lukewarm response in India although the pickup truck version, the V-Cross finds a lot of fans in the off-roading community. With a facelift already launched in India in 2022, the 2023 version could make things more interesting. Let us take a look at what the Thai version of the 7-seat SUV comes equipped with.
2023 Isuzu MU-X Specs
This version of the MU-X comes powered by a 1.9-litre and a 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine. While the former is the same that is sold in our market and produces a decent 163 PS and 360 Nm of peak power and torque, the latter makes a colossal 190 hp and 450 Nm of peak power and torque. There are just automatic transmissions mated to both these engines. Needless to say, there is a dedicated 4×4 drivetrain with drive modes to take you to any terrain. Its 235 mm ground clearance will remove any worries of the underbelly scratching irrespective of the surface.
Design and Dimensions
It is the design that sets it distinctly apart from the existing version. The front features an LED headlamp setup, chrome and gunmetal finish on the black grille, sporty bumper, rugged skid plate, projector fog lamps with attractive housing and an upright stance that lends an impressive road presence to the SUV. On the sides, one can clearly experience the length of the MU-X. There are black side pillars, roof rails, side steps for easier ingress and egress, stylish 20-inch alloy wheels, and chunky wheel arches. At the rear, there are wrap-around LED taillamps, a powered tailgate, Isuzu lettering on the boot lid, a rugged skid plate and a sporty bumper.
Interior and Features
The cabin of the 2023 Isuzu MU-X looks significantly more upgraded than the existing model. There is a large 9-inch touchscreen infotainment screen at the centre, soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels, chrome door handles and gunmetal texture on the door panels, a part-digital instrument cluster, double-opening dashboard, powered front seats, electric parking brake, chrome embellishments at various place, premium audio system, ADAS functions, steering-mounted controls with a chrome strip on it, and more. When this makes it to our shores, it will most likely be priced over Rs 40 lakh, ex-showroom. Can the 2023 Isuzu MU-X rival the mighty Toyota Fortuner?