IsuzuPH opens its 4X4 Action Playground at the Mall of Asia

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) yesterday opened to the public their Isuzu 4×4 Action Playground, a specially designed off-road course laid out at the Exploreum Parking Area of SM Mall of Asia. This unique attraction, with its lineup of many fun-filled activities, will run from April 21-24, 2016.

Four-wheel drive variants of the Isuzu mu-X premium SUV and the D-MAX pickup take center stage, both of which are offered up for test drives so that 4×4 enthusiasts and other consumers may be able to experience the off-road driving mettle of the two models. Tackling the various obstacles—which include the slipper slope, articulation ramp, 40-degree transverse-angle ramp, and the centerpiece; the 20-foot Thrill Hill—across the track are two units each of the mu-X 3.0L LS-A AT 4×4 and D-MAX 3.0L LS AT 4×4.

“We in Isuzu Philippines believe that consumers must always be supplied with as much information as possible with regards to the vehicles that are available in the market. This way, they can make the best and informed choices. While specification sheets and brochures may be able to supply some technical information, actual experience with a particular vehicle is just as important in determining its capabilities. This is what the Isuzu 4×4 Playground seeks to provide; it allows consumers access to first-hand knowledge about Isuzu vehicles,” said Hajime Koso, president of IPC.

The mu-X 3.0L LS-A AT 4×4 is powered by Isuzu’s 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TC (HI) diesel engine that, with common rail direct injection, intercooler and variable geometry system turbocharger, produces 163Ps at 3,200rpm and 380Nm of torque at 1,800-2,200rpm. Matched to this is a five-speed automatic transmission with a sequential shift function. Found under the D-MAX 3.0L LS AT 4×4 is the same robust and fuel-efficient powertrain.

Both the 4×4 variants of the mu-X and D-MAX boast of Isuzu’s 4WD Terrain Command Select Dial. This feature allows drivers to switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive Low mode by simply turning a knob. Drivers may also switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive High mode even while the vehicles are traveling at speeds of up to 100kph. The mu-X and D-MAX also have ideal approach and departure angles, boosting their off-road capabilities.

IPC at the Isuzu 4×4 Action Playground also introduces a new variant of the mu-X, the 2016 Isuzu mu-X 2.5L LS-A MT. This exciting addition to the mu-X lineup comes equipped with passive entry and push-button start/stop; multi-information display and electroluminescent instrument meters; cruise control; TPMS-ready entertainment system with a 7-inch touch screen; chrome radiator grille, door handles and side-view mirrors; 17-inch alloy wheels; and automatic climate control.

The 2016 mu-X 3.0L LS-A AT 4×4 and mu-X 3.0L LS-A AT 4×2 flaunt items like Hill Start Assist, which prevents the vehicles from rolling back when starting from a stop on an incline; cruise control; a new rear spoiler with integrated third brake lamp; interior chrome garnishes; multi-information display and electroluminescent instrument meters; and an entertainment system that features a high-resolution 8-inch capacitive touch screen display and control panel for the various improved functions, including for WiFi, Bluetooth and BT Music. The system’s navigation feature also has a pinch function, as well as split screen capacity when in radio, disc, USB and iPod modes.

The entry-level 2016 mu-X 2.5L LS MT 4×2 has a TPMS-ready 7-inch touch screen entertainment system.

Along with the new features, the 2016 is also offered with the new Obsidian Grey color, adding to the Cosmic Black, Silky Pearl White, Titanium Silver and Outback Brown choices.

Serving as additional attractions at the Isuzu 4×4 Action Playground are displays of Isuzu’s new mu-X 2.5L LS-M 4×2, mu-X 3.0L LS-A 4×2, Crosswind Sportivo Limited Edition, and D-MAX Limited Edition.

The staging of the Isuzu 4×4 Action Playground also coincides with this year’s edition of the Auto Focus Motor Show, which takes place at the SM Mall of Asia open parking grounds. IPC at the show offers for test drives the 4×2 variants of the 2016 mu-X, D-MAX and Crosswind Sportivo.

For more information on the Isuzu 4×4 Action Playground, please log on to www.isuzuphil.com.

Photos by IPC and Neil Pagulayan