Isuzu is one of those players in the automobile world who thrive on a cult following. In India, the Japanese firm has been around for a while in the passenger vehicle space. It sells a couple of products for the commercial sector and a couple for private use. The flagship offering has been the mu-X, which has now received a complete model change after seven years. What you see here is the all-new mu-X for the Thai market. It goes on sale there on November 9, 2020. And yes, it will eventually land in India too.

There’s no doubt that the new mu-X is more appealing. Inside or out, it has not only grown in comfort and convenience but also personality. It no longer looks utilitarian, which should attract a wider audience. Plus, there’s a lot more tech on offer. For instance, the sleeker headlamps boast Bi-LED projector units and DRLs. At 20 inches, the chunky wheels complement the SUV’s silhouette. Indoors, the dual-tone theme looks classy. That, backed by a big multifunction steering wheel, an infotainment system and loads of other stuff, help make the whole package more desirable.

In Thailand, the new mu-X will be available with two diesel engines – a 1.9-litre and a 3.0-litre. The smaller of the two produces 148bhp/350Nm and is available with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0-litre powerplant puts out 188bhp/450Nm but comes mated only to a 6-speed auto. Also, Isuzu’s offering the potent 4WD system only with the gutsier powertrain.

In all probability, India will get the larger of the two engine options. That should put the mu-X right in the middle of a challenging segment, which is currently ruled by the Toyota Fortuner. Other options in the same space include the MG Gloster, Ford Endeavour and the Mahindra Alturas G4. Even the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace falls in the same sort of price bracket. If Isuzu manages to price the new mu-X competitively enough, it can seriously unsettle the authoritative forces. What do you think?