Latest news with #ISUZU
The Citizen
11-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
R1-million Isuzu MU-X will struggle to catch Fortuner and Everest
Isuzu's seven-seater SUV updated with attractive new looks and more technology. The Isuzu D-Max holds a comfortable place at the local top bakkie table, but its SUV sibling, the MU-X, is akin to the adage of having a brother in prison. You love him, but do not speak about him. Like the bakkie segment, the body on frame SUV space is also headed by Toyota. In an average month the Fortuner holds around half of the market share, with the Ford Everest a distant but steady second. The third place is an almighty scrap between the Isuzu MU-X and Mahindra Scorpio-N, with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport also in the mix. But even during months when the MU-X does edge the Scorpio-N, it doesn't come close to the kind of market share the D-Max has established in the bakkie race. Or in markets like Australia for example. Slowly but surely Isuzu is not under the illusion that the facelifted MU-X is going to perform miracles. But the Japanese manufacturer hopes it can at least build on the gradual single-digit percentage growth the SUV has achieved since the introduction of the second generation locally in 2021. The facelifted version of the seven-seater SUV features styling enhancements and more technology on board. It keeps the 1.9 and 3.0-litre powertrains from before across six models, with the refined flagship model now adopting the Onyx XT moniker in becoming the first local Isuzu to break the R1-million barrier. Seeing the facelift MU-X from the front approaching from a distance gives off serious previous generation Mercedes-Benz GLE vibes. The updated Isuzu MU-X features a redesigned front bumper which houses a model specific grille flanked by redesigned LED headlights. The grille and redesigned fog lights bezels share the same honeycomb pattern, with the ISUZU lettering moving up from the grille to below the bonnet line. The Onyx XT rides on 20-inch gloss black alloys. Picture: Isuzu Onyx XT looks the part The German inspired styling continues at the rear were the full-width lightbar between the revised LED taillight cluster is reminiscent of the Audi Q8. LS and LSE models ride on 18-inch alloy wheels, with the Onyx XT kitted out in gloss black 20-inch rims. The latter works a charm along with a blacked-out grille with the XT badge, magnetite accents, gloss black wheel arch cladding and black side steps, mirrors caps and roof rails. Moving to the inside, the MU-X's dashboard has been revamped, while new colours feature on the doors and armrests. The seats also feature reworked leather patterns. ALSO READ: Can new entry-level Isuzu MU-X dent Toyota Fortuner's pride? More tech inside Isuzu MU-X Now standard across the range is a nine-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The touchscreen systems now feature five touch-sensitive switches alongside the two rotary dials as before. The instrument cluster features a redesigned seven-inch multi-information display flanked by an analogue tachometer on the left and fuel and temperature gauges on the right. Standard across the range is push-start, electric front seats and front and rear parking sensors. In addition, LSE models get 360-degree camera and paddle shifters, while the Onyx XT boasts adaptive cruise control and heated front seats. A nine-inch infotainment system takes centre stage. Picture: Isuzu No change in power A decent set of safety systems is standard across the range, with the Isuzu MU-X Onyx XT benefitting from advanced systems like lane departure warning. The 1.9-litre blown diesel mill produces 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque, sent to the rear wheels via six-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine produces 140kW/450Nm and is also mated to a six-speed auto box. All-wheel drive is standard on the Onyx XT, while the other 3.0-litre models offer a selection between rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. Smooth drive A recent launch drive around the Cape Winelands was enough for the 3.0-litre mill to prove to The Citizen Motoring that it has plenty of urge with little turbo lag. It offers a refined ride with smooth gear changes. Off the beaten track, the MU-X is as capable as you'd come to expect from an Isuzu off-roader. The updated Isuzu MU-X looks and feels better than its ever been. But the reality is that it is still playing catch-up to the Ford Everest and dated Toyota Fortuner. It's hard to imagine a price tag that breaches seven digits for the flagship will be justified for many more than the Isuzu faithful. Isuzu MU-X pricing MU-X 1.9 Ddi LS 4×2 AT – R752 300 MU-X 3.0 Ddi LS 4×2 AT – R852 600 MU-X 3.0 Ddi LS 4×4 AT – R939 500 MU-X 3.0 Ddi LSE 4×2 AT – R886 700 MU-X 3.0 Ddi LSE 4×4 AT – R973 700 MU-X 3.0 Ddi Onyx XT 4×4 AT – R1 026 800 *Pricing includes five-year/90 000km service plan and five-year/120 000km warranty.
New Straits Times
23-04-2025
- Automotive
- New Straits Times
Isuzu D-Max chalks up record sales
ISUZU's share of the pick-up truck segment in Malaysia grew to a record 18.3 per cent in the first quarter this year, up from 14.0 per cent achieved over the same period in 2024. Isuzu Malaysia said the Japanese brand's popularity has risen at a time when diesel vehicles have begun facing negative perception due to the substantial increase in the pump price of diesel in Peninsular Malaysia. "What we have clearly seen is a growing number of buyers who have discovered the merits of owning and driving an Isuzu D-Max," said Isuzu Malaysia chief operating officer Kenkichi Sogo. "Not only do they purchase a versatile vehicle that has far-reaching capabilities for their daily use and leisure, the D-Max's exceptionally low running cost, superior dependability and cheap road tax ensures that customers still come out with a winning hand," Sogo added. While Sabah and Sarawak has traditionally been a "fixed deposit" for Isuzu Malaysia where it commands a healthy 28.4 per cent of the market in Sabah alone, sales in Peninsular Malaysia has seen a sharp rise from a 12.1 per cent market share in 2024 to 17.1 per cent this year. All top three D-Max variants sold by Isuzu Malaysia feature the impressively-capable 1.9-litre engine. The 1.9-litre 4x4 Auto Premium, 1.9-litre 4x4 Auto Standard and 1.9-litre 4x2 Auto Plus collectively make up 72.7 per cent of the total sales. Two of these variants recently earned a spot in the Malaysian Book of Records when they were driven 2,004km using just one tank of fuel. "With its unrivalled fuel efficiency, numerous class-leading features, handsome design, exceptionally low running costs, an impressive five-year warranty and an annual road tax of under RM400 in Peninsular Malaysia, customers have begun embracing the Isuzu D-Max as the vehicle to own and drive in order to beat the rising cost of daily essentials," the company said.
Time of India
21-04-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Isuzu Motors India's CV exports up 24% in FY25 to 20,312 units
Isuzu Motors India (IMI) has become the country's top exporter of commercial vehicles (CVs) for the financial year 2024-25, having shipped 20,312 units—a 24 per cent increase over the previous year's total of 16,329 units, according to data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). This strong performance places IMI ahead of its peers in the segment and reinforces its role as a key contributor to India's automotive exports, the company said in a media release. The company has consistently ranked among the top three CV exporters in recent years, but this latest figure marks its highest annual export volume to date, the company added. Sri City facility Located in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, IMI's manufacturing plant supports both left-hand and right-hand drive markets across Asia and the Middle East, including countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman. The facility, which recently produced its 100,000th vehicle, is a cornerstone of Isuzu's manufacturing strategy for global markets. Rajesh Mittal , President & Managing Director, Isuzu Motors India, stated: 'This milestone reinforces the strength of ISUZU's global manufacturing philosophy—Isuzu Monozukuri. Every vehicle we produce in India is built to the same global standards that define the ISUZU brand worldwide. Our Sri City facility is powered by a talented and dedicated workforce. These 'Made-in-India' vehicles are a true reflection of our robust manufacturing processes, proven product DNA and our unwavering commitment to serving both domestic and international markets with pride and consistency.' The steady rise in exports also reflects the increasing recognition of Indian manufacturing capabilities in global markets. Toru Kishimoto, Deputy Managing Director, Isuzu Motors India, said, 'We are proud to see continued and growing demand for India-made ISUZU vehicles in key global markets. This strong export performance is a testament to the world-class quality, reliability, and performance of our vehicles, made in India.'
