Dark and daring: Isuzu Philippines unveils the Isuzu mu-X Black Series

Mr. Ilderim Castanares Isuzu Cebu Branch Manager, Mr. Steve Gingco Isuzu Cebu Inc. General Manager, Mr. Shojiro Sakoda Executive Vice President Isuzu Philippines Corp., Mr. Daisuke Takagi Mitsubishi Corp. General Manager for ASEAN Division, Mr. Hiroto Nakaguro Sales Department Head Isuzu Philippines Corp.

ALREADY boasting of high-caliber features, the Isuzu mu-X exceeds any discerning customer's expectation. Now, this premium SUV offers even more as a new variant is introduced.

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) unveiled an upgraded variant of the Isuzu mu-X 3.0 LS-A 4x2 A/T that is equipped with additional styling and functional features. To underscore both the Isuzu mu-X's flagship status in IPC's model lineup and the importance of the Visayas market to the Isuzu brand, the new vehicle was presented on March 17, 2017 at Isuzu Cebu City.

Called the Isuzu mu-X Black Series, the model is more sophisticated yet sporty at the same time. As identified by its name, it comes equipped with black radiator grille and hood garnish, as well as a two-tone front bumper where the top portion matches the vehicle body's color while the lower part is finished in Cosmic Black.

Bolstering the darker and more daring look of the Isuzu mu-X Black Series while also enhancing functionality are the matching gloss black roof rails, which can carry loads weighing up to 60 kilograms, and the semi-gloss black side stepboards. In the rear of the vehicle, a new tailgate garnish that's also finished in black updates the styling. Meanwhile, giving a touch of elegance are the redesigned two-tone, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 255/65 R17 tires.

The changes extend to the Isuzu mu-X Black Series' interior where, on top of numerous luxury and convenience features, added are carbon fiber accents on the key cover and other panels, as well as new scuff plates. Lending a more sophisticated feel are the chrome inside door handles, and the door armrests and center console that are now covered in soft pad. Also new is the organizer box, which complements the various storage compartments strategically located inside the vehicle.

"As Isuzu Philippines' bestselling and flagship model, the Isuzu mu-X Black Series deserves to have the best features that address the expectations of even more discerning customers. That is why we strive to continually introduce upgrades to this premium and highly capable SUV. The Isuzu mu-X Black Series is the latest product of such efforts, and we're confident that the model will appeal to a more sophisticated market," said IPC Executive Vice President Shojiro Sakoda.

"Introducing the new Isuzu mu-X Black Series in Cebu is also an important move as this signifies Isuzu Philippines' appreciation for growth markets in the central and southern parts of the country. And Cebu has consistently been among the strongest performers in terms of deliveries of Isuzu products," Sakoda added.

The Isuzu mu-X Black Series is powered by Isuzu's 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TC (HI) diesel engine that is equipped with common rail direct injection, intercooler and a variable geometry system turbocharger. This engine produces 163Ps at 3,200rpm and 380Nm of torque from 1,800rpm to 2,200rpm, which is delivered to the rear wheels by a five-speed automatic transmission with a sequential shift function.

As a premium SUV, the Isuzu mu-X Black Series boasts of projector-type multi-reflector headlamps, daytime running lamps, a center-mounted roof antenna, chrome power-folding side-view mirrors with integrated turn indicators, and a rear spoiler. Inside the vehicle are upscale devices like an entertainment system with Bluetooth, iPod and WiFi connectivity, as well as an 8-inch touchscreen display for the various multimedia functions and the navigation system. Other features include the electroluminescent multi-information display, 10-inch ceiling-mounted video monitor, six-speaker system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and 6-way power adjust driver seats that are also covered in leather.

The Isuzu mu-X Black Series is priced at P1,568,000, and is offered in two colors, namely Cosmic Black and Garnet Red. It is now available at all authorized Isuzu Philippines Corporation dealers and satellite branches nationwide.