Isuzu MU-7's automatic variant launched for Rs 23.9 lakh

Isuzu has launched the automatic variant of the MU-7 SUV in India for Rs 23.9 lakh. The automatic gearbox will add to the convenience and ease the driver's drivability of the big burly vehicle.

The MU-7 was only sold with a manual variant in the 4X2 configuration and will now come with a five-speed automatic transmission that is available in the international-spec MU-7. The powertrain is the same as the earlier version, meaning a 3.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine will continue to be seen under the hood of the vehicle. This powerplant churns out 163bhp of power and 360Nm of torque. The car features independent double wishbone, torsion bar spring and anti-roll bar for the front and rigid gas-sealed shock absorbers in the front and rear.

Cosmetically, the car is the same, but the manufacturer has added a few new features to the cabin. The interior comes equipped with a new three-spoke steering wheel and steering mounted audio controls and a two-tone dashboard with high gloss lacquer finished wood trim. The new music system (Kenwood 6015 BT) now gets satellite navigation and there is a touch screen system with rear view camera and parking sensors.

Naohiro Yamaguchi, Managing Director, Isuzu Motors India, said, "We are happy to add the new MU-7 AT variant to our current product portfolio. The MU-7 is becoming popular with its combination of style and substance and has been receiving encouraging response from the customers, thanks to the sheer performance, space and comfort it offers. In line with ISUZU’s philosophy to constantly study the market and offer customers a great experience, we now add the new Automatic Transmission variant with more enhanced features on the interior. Many have approached us for an automatic variant in the MU-7 and with this launch we are sure that a wider range of SUV enthusiasts will prefer the MU-7.”

The Japanese manufacturer had released a teaser recently, hinting at the imminent launch. Like the standard version, the automatic variant will also be sold as a CKD unit assembled at the Hindustan Motors Ltd. facility in Thiruvallur, near Chennai. The carmaker could have also offered the ladder frame SUV with the 4X4 configuration, but Isuzu plans to do it some other time. Nevertheless, the new variant with additional features should appeal to the prospective buyers in our country.