Isuzu MU 7 AT Premium

MU 7 AT Premium Review

Isuzu Motors India has launched the automatic variant in its MU 7 model series. It is not just the automatic transmission gear box, but this particular trim named Isuzu MU 7 AT Premium also comes with some additional features. It includes a two tone dashboard that includes a wood trim. A new three spoke steering wheel mounted with audio controls and a music system with satellite navigation system is also offered. Besides these, it also has rear parking sensors and a rear view camera that is synchronized with touch screen display. Look wise, it is quite muscular yet carries the style factor. Its chrome garnished radiator grille, and well sculpted bumper in its frontage catches all attention, while the tail light cluster and roof spoiler remains the highlight in its rear end. In terms of technical specifications, it has a 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine that displaces 2999cc. This mill is capable of generating a maximum power of 160bhp in combination with torque output of 330Nm. Being mated with an automatic transmission gear box, this power train delivers an excellent performance. Apart from all these, it also includes anti lock braking system, seat belts and airbags for driver as well as co-passenger, which offers protection to its occupants to a great extent.

Exteriors:

This sports utility vehicle has a rugged body frame that stretches to a total length of 4955mm. Meanwhile, with 1800mm width, 1805mm height, and wheelbase of 3050mm, it offers sufficient cabin space to the passengers inside. It looks quite aggressive at front with aspects like a radiator grille that is garnished with chrome and a headlight cluster, which includes high intensity head lamps. The scoop and character lines makes its bonnet more appealing, while the large windshield comes fitted with a couple of wipers. Its front fascia also includes a bumper that is integrated with an air intake section. Moving to its side profile, it has pronounced wheel arches equipped with a modish set of 16 inch alloy wheels. These are further covered with radial tubeless tyres of size 245/70 R16. Besides these, it also has a side step, body colored door handles as well as outside rear view mirrors. The car maker has designed its rear end elegantly with a wide windscreen that includes defogger and a wiper. The roof spoiler adds to its sportiness and comes integrated with a high mount stop lamp. The tail light cluster features turn indicators, whereas its boot lid has a chrome strip and company's badge embossed on it. Then, there is a roof mounted antenna and a bumper with a pair of reflectors.

Interiors:

It has a plush internal section wherein, the wood and chrome inserts further gives it a contemporary touch. It can accommodate seven people with ease and comes with a boot space of about 400 litres, which can be further increased by folding the rear seat. In all three rows, its seats are sliding, but they are reclining as well in the first and second rows. It is not just the seats, but aspects like gear lever knob and steering wheel are also covered with fine quality leather. The smooth dashboard is painted in two colors which are beige and black, while the high gloss lacquer finished wood trim further makes it look elegant. It houses some advanced equipments like an instrument panel, and center console that is equipped with a music system and air conditioning unit. Other aspects in the cabin include assist grips, pockets on door trims, seat integrated headrests, glove box compartment, cup holders and a few others.

Engine and Performance:

What powers this robust vehicle is a 3.0-litre diesel engine that has 2999cc total displacement capacity. It has four cylinders, 16 valves and is based on a double overhead camshaft valve configuration. This intercooled turbo mill has a variable geometry system as well. It is incorporated with a common rail direct injection system and paired with an automatic transmission gear box, which simplifies gear shifts. It can return a maximum fuel economy of around 8 to 9 Kmpl on the bigger roads. This motor can belt out a peak power of 161bhp at 3600rpm and delivers torque output of 333Nm ranging between 1600 and 3200rpm.

Braking and Handling:

The car maker has offered it with a reliable braking system wherein, its front wheels are fitted with robust disc brakes and drum brakes are used for the rear ones. This mechanism is further assisted by ABS with EBD. It is bestowed with a hydraulic power assisted steering system that ensures easy handling of the vehicle even in heavy traffic conditions. In terms of suspension, its front axle has an independent double wishbone with torsion bar springs and anti roll bar, whereas the rear one gets a rigid suspension system. These are further loaded with gas filled shock absorbers that aids in making the drive smooth.

Comfort Features:

In terms of comfort, it has a proficient air conditioning unit with ceiling vents in the second and third rows as well. The instrument panel, which includes a digital trip computer, keeps its driver informed with vehicle's updates by displaying several notifications. The occupants can listen to their favorite music by switching on the new Kenwood 6015 BT music system. It comes with a satellite navigation system and features CD, MP3 players as well. This audio unit can be easily operated through switches that are mounted on its steering wheel. There are sun visors available at front, while all its windows are power operated. A rear view camera is also offered, which is synchronized with its touchscreen display. Apart from all these, it also includes inside rear view mirror, trunk light, rear seat center armrest, Bluetooth connectivity, accessory power outlet and some other such aspects.

Safety Features:

A few vital features are loaded in this trim, which guarantees enhanced protection of its passengers. The list includes door ajar warning lamp, dual front air bags, high mount stop lamp and central locking system. It also has engine immobilizer, rear parking sensors as well as anti lock braking system along with electronic brake force distribution that further adds to the safety quotient.

Pros:

1. Spacious boot compartment is an advantage.
2. Its new additions are a plus point.

Cons:

1. Fuel economy is not up to the mark.
2. More security features can be added.