Isuzu isn’t really a company known for putting a lot of high-tech stuff in its products. The automaker specializes in commercial vehicles that can take plenty of use and abuse. However, electronic gadgets are some of the features buyers look for these days. And the diesel-engine specialist thinks it has that covered in the all-new Mu-X.

Now left to its own devices, Isuzu has really upped the ante in its design language. Slim headlight assemblies and a prominent radiator grille give the Mu-X a more aggressive face. The window line is now more elegant as it loses the split rear glass of the previous-generation model. The Mu-X has evolved from the weird-looking creature of yore to a premium product that wouldn’t look out of place in an upscale mall.

Isuzu has thoughtfully given the cabin a full makeover. The quirkiness of the outgoing Mu-X’s interior is now gone. The dashboard has a conventional layout with simplified switchgear. The steering wheel has silver trim that is a nice contrasting touch. Passengers will be treated to a more luxurious experience onboard—not something one would expect from a truck maker.

One thing that has made Isuzu endearing to its customers is its source of propulsion. With the powerplants of some of its rivals touching 200hp, the firm has done its homework in increasing the performance of its Blue Power turbodiesels. The 4JJ3 3.0-liter unit is no slouch at 187hp and 450Nm, and gets the benefit of a bigger block. The fuel-efficient RZ4E 1.9-liter engine is also available, producing 148hp and 350Nm. Transmission choices are a six-speed automatic and a six-speed manual (for the RZ4E LS-A).

Buyers will be pleased to know that a 10.1-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard across all trim levels. All Mu-X variants will come equipped with LED headlights and daytime running lights, antilock brakes, electronic parking brake, traction and stability control, hill-start assist, and hill-descent control. The LS variant gets 17-inch wheels, while the LS-A trim level has 18-inch rims.

The range-topping LS-E gets more goodies with stylish 20-inch wheels, a power tailgate, a 220V power outlet, leather seats, and automatic headlights and wipers. Exclusive to this variant is the Advanced Driver Assist System, which comes with electronic aids like forward-collision warning, automatic braking, accelerator inhibitor, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard on the midrange LS-A as well.

All variants are two-wheel-drive save for the LS-E, which is available with four-wheel drive. Speaking of rough terrain, the 4WD system has off-road driving modes. The Mu-X also has a wading depth of 800mm—one of the best in this class.

See below the variants and the prices of the all-new Mu-X:

• 3.0L 4×4 LS-E AT – P2,450,000
• 3.0L 4×2 LS-E AT – P2,100,000
• 3.0L 4×2 LS-A AT – P1,900,000
• RZ4E 4×2 LS-A MT – P1,770,000
• RZ4E 4×2 LS AT – P1,590,000

The all-new Mu-X will be available starting tomorrow (September 23) at all Isuzu dealerships nationwide. For those who want to dress up their vehicles, the automaker is offering various genuine accessories for the Mu-X and its pickup twin, the D-Max.