After the successful launch of its Blue Power technology in both the Luzon and Visayas regions, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) recently shepherded a select group of motoring scribes to the historic Island of Bohol for a ride and drive event to highlight the latest versions of the MU-X and D-Max equipped with Isuzu’s Blue Power engines.
With IPC President Hajime Koso leading the contingent of Isuzu executives and motoring journalists, the convoy went around Bohol on a three-day exploratory tour of its tourist destinations and historic sights. “Our recent product introduction wouldn’t be completed without putting these units to the test, and we couldn’t think of a better setting other than the very picturesque roads of Bohol. With its naturally hilly terrain, plus the combination of urban and rural roads—our Blue Power models are sure to the perfect companion in this kind of drive,” said Koso.
This writer was assigned in MU-X number 2, with Botchi Santos of the Inquirer as my navigator, Ron delos Reyes of Malaya/Auto Review and Koso as my passengers throughout the three-day event. From the Tagbilaran Airport, we proceeded with the event by driving for three hours to Carmen, where the contingent stopped over Bohol’s most famous landmark, the Chocolate Hills. After lunch at a nearby restaurant, we drove through Bilar’s popular man-made forest road, where we appreciated the beautiful lay-out of the trees and lush greenery. On our way to Amorita Resort in Panglao, we had a brief stop at the centuries old Baclayon Church, which was currently under renovation after the earthquake which hit the province a few years ago.
Driving up and down the hills of Bohol is a breeze, thanks to the D-MAX’s new Hill Start Assist feature, while the Hill Descent Control which enable the driver to operate even at a steep terrain is available for both models – adding to its safety and driver assist features. The Blue Power D-MAX and mu-X now carries the new 4JJ1-TCX EURO 4 engine that can deliver up to 177 PS and has a maximum torque of 380 N-m. Engineered with Blue Power technology, these models are now capable of providing maximum engine output, superb fuel economy – all the while maintaining Isuzu’s renowned engine durability.
Day two of Isuzu’s Bohol exploration took us to the Bohol Bee Farm, where a small community is a reflection of commercial success by way of harnessing the abundance of nature. After an hour of touring the bee farm, gardens and sampling honey related delicacies, the highlight of the day was the Loboc River Cruise, wherein we had a sumptous feast of seafoods amid the visual delights of the Loboc River.
The new front fascia of the MU-X and the Blue Power engine technology is the perfect contrast to Bohol’s old World charm. As we were smitten by the natural wonders of the province, we were also impressed by the comfort features, ride quality and smooth power of both the D-Max and MU-X equipped with Blue Power technology.
“The Isuzu D-MAX and mu-X Blue Power carries our most advanced engine to date, coupled with the latest features in each segment, we are confident that these new models will satisfy the ever-changing demands of the Filipino market,” Koso added.
The 2018 Isuzu D-MAX prices are pegged at P1,320,000 for the D-MAX 3.0L LS 4×2 M/T; P1,390,000 for the D-MAX 3.0L LS 4×2 A/T; P1,650,000 for the D-MAX 3.0L LS 4×4 M/T; and P1,720,000 for the D-MAX 3.0L LS 4×4 A/T. The Isuzu mu-X prices start at P1,648,000 for the mu-X 3.0L LS-A 4×2 A/T; P1,958,000 for the mu-X 3.0L LS-A 4×4 A/T; additional P10,000 will be added for the Silky Pearl White color.
