At New Clark Global City, participants tested first-hand some of the Isuzu ADAS features like the Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) in a controlled course

What makes Isuzu’s ADAS different from its competitors is its Smart Duo Cam system. While most brands in its segment use a monocular camera/radar-based system, Isuzu’s system uses two cameras giving true stereoscopic vision. This allows the system to properly perceive depth, like human eyes. Unlike human eyes, however, this system offers a wider field of view and doesn’t get tired or distracted.

“The Isuzu Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) helped achieve a 5-star rating in the ASEAN NCAP (5-star rating for the D-Max strict Euro NCAP), making these models one of the safest in its segment. Both the D-Max and mu-X are family vehicles, and these features are every relevant to their daily drive to ensure the safety of both the occupants and the people around the vehicle,” said Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) President Tetsuya Fujita.

Another benefit of the Smart Duo Cam system is that it’s designed with off-roading in mind. With the cameras mounted inside the cabin and atop the windshield, it’s not as susceptible to mud, sand, or other debris which would otherwise render a radar-based system inoperable. Moreover, when the sensors get dirty, it can easily be cleaned simply by using the windshield wiper.

And because there are no sensors located in the front bumper or grille, the potential cost of repairs is much lower.

Realizing this advantage, the test drive activity proceeded with some off-road action. The Isuzu D-Max and mu-X was able to traverse around the rocking bed of Sacobia River with its volcanic ash, muddy water, and debris - which is sort of an easy task for these models considering Isuzu’s renowned reputation for durability and reliability.

The Isuzu truck DNA is obvious in these models running on its 4JJ3-TCX Blue Power engine, giving it enough power and torque to be able to traverse any kind of terrain.

During the drive Isuzu also highlighted its excellent under body chassis protection that stretches from the skid plate down to transfer case, a class leading feature ensuring that the vehicle maintains its chassis integrity to withstand hash road conditions enabling it to travel for long mileages on the road.

In addition to that, Isuzu also throws in a one-piece aluminum driveshaft, another unique feature that is not only lighter but can efficiently distribute power across the vehicle. And for hardcore off-road enthusiast, there’s an on-board clinometer as an added feature on its 10-inch infotainment system, assisting the driver during descent and incline approach.

What’s noticeably different with these new-generation Isuzu is how easy it is to maneuver compared to previous models, as well as its improved cabin noise suppression making every drive more comfortable and enjoyable.

“We try to keep it to true to our core values, Isuzu is known as a very durable brand and with these models our customers can continue to use their vehicles in challenging road conditions and harsh environment whenever they require, but at the same time we’re improving their over-all driving experience and on top of that their safety,” said Fujita.

Aside from the ADAS and 4x4 features, the new Isuzu D-Max and mu-X has seen a recent upgrade elevating its over-all style with a more luxurious and modern appeal, starting with its new two-tone front grille, redesigned alloy wheels, and new body colors that suggests elegance, especially for the new Isuzu mu-X that now comes with a new Smart Power Tailgate feature.

The Isuzu D-Max and Isuzu mu-X are one of the strongest nameplates in its segment. And with its recent upgrades and 5-star safety, these two new generation models should be in any shortlist of family vehicles considering its long history of durability and the trust by thousands of Filipino families using it nationwide.