Isuzu has officially launched a facelift version of the current-generation 2023 mu-X in Thailand.
2023 Isuzu mu-X in Glacier Blue Mica
The news might appear like the Japanese automaker is hastening the updates on its midsize SUV. But the current-gen model actually came out in 2020 in the Land of Smiles, whereas the Philippine market welcomed it only in September last year. That said, a mid-life refresh can keep the model afloat in its respective segment.
Exterior-wise, the 2023 Isuzu mu-X comes with minor revamps including the front grille which gets a black chrome finish. A new set of 20-inch wheels is also part of the update, now with a different yet similar rotor blade-like design. Perhaps the biggest change is the new Glacier Blue Mica, which adds a bright paint option to the mix.
The new Macchiato Brown color for the interior
Moving to the interior, the cabin layout is pretty much untouched. But the automaker did introduce a new upholstery color called Macchiato Brown, providing a premium-looking two-tone finish. Moreover, a Smart Tailgate feature is introduced, allowing the tailgate to automatically open or close whenever the key holder moves nearer to or farther away from the SUV.
The powertrain options for the mu-X remain the same: a 1.9-liter RZ4E turbodiesel engine with 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, and a 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX turbodiesel engine with 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. That said, we can still expect the facelifted version to offer the same fuel efficiency. In a fuel test run with the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), the SUV clocked 1,675 km in one full tank.
The SUV is now even more stylish for the 2023 model year
In terms of safety, the brand’s advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) offers adaptive cruise control with speed limiter, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, among others. It is also equipped with six SRS airbags for the front, side, and curtain areas.
The 2023 Isuzu mu-X facelift could take a while before it reaches our shores as the current PH-spec model only arrived last year. But considering the updates, particularly the new exterior and interior colors, we cannot wait to see it roam around Philippine roads.
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