I've yet to meet an unsatisfied Isuzu owner. Whether for commercial or personal use, Isuzu's models offer power, durability, and reliability that allow them to literally stand the test of time.

Several years ago, Isuzu decided to take its trucks to the next level by equipping them with Advanced Driver-Assist Systems (ADAS). Fast-forward to 2025, and its top-of-the-line mu-X comes with a power tailgate and passive entry feature, among many others.

Of the many exterior updates of this model year, I like this new Eiger Gray color the most. It feels fresh and cool to the eyes and is unique among all mid-size SUVs. I also like how much sharper the front fascia is with the Dynamic Blade Design of the LED headlamps and the Dynamic Design Titanium Carbide grille. Finally, the Fighter Jet Wing Design (perhaps a bit of an exaggeration) with Air Curtain on the front bumpers adds a touch of aggressiveness and aerodynamic efficiency to its performance. Isuzu also refreshed its wheels with a new Dynamic Turbine design, while the rear gets a fresh Embrace Line Concept Rear Combination LED Tail Lamps.

The new look of this mu-X isn't a major departure from the original, but slimming down certain elements trimmed its image to a leaner, meaner people-moving machine. Isuzu designers clearly identified areas for improvement and gave it a facelift that deserves a 10/10.

Ingress was easy thanks to the mu-X's passive entry feature, but oddly enough, it only works on the driver's side. The front passenger door has a clicker on the handle, but for the week I had the test unit, it didn't work. I've had to walk around the vehicle to unlock it from the driver's door or use the key fob, and the same goes for the power tailgate.

Isuzu didn't tweak the cabin (much). It still has the same padded dashboard, leather seats, leather multi-function steering wheels, and visible stitching on nearly all surfaces for contrast and added sophistication. The angular impression of the cockpit matches the sharp features of its fascia and keeps its look uniform, inside and out. You can't miss the 10.1-inch color touchscreen infotainment system with wireless CarPlay, Auto, which also doubles as the monitor for its 360-degree around-view system with blind spot turn assist. It has a dual-zone climate control system with rear vents, a wireless charger, USB connectivity, and a 12-volt accessory socket. What is new in the cabin is ambient lighting, the electroluminescent-type instrument panel with a seven-inch multi-information display, and a digital video recorder (so you don't have to buy an aftermarket unit). The second row has a 60/40 split-folding bench seat with a center armrest and cup holders, while the third row has a 50/50 split-folding bench.

I don't mind getting stuck in traffic in this cabin. It's spacious, comfortable, and the state-of-the-art equipment makes it easy to use my devices and stay entertained and informed. The best part is that no cables are necessary to connect or charge.

Under the hood is the same 3.0-liter Blue Power turbo diesel with an intercooler. It makes 190-PS and 450-Nm of torque and sends it to the front wheels or an all-wheel drive via a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. Drivers in the city will appreciate the Auto Hold Function, while off-roading is made better by its Terrain Command Select Dial with Rough Terrain Mode. I averaged 12.6-km/l over seven days in mixed driving conditions. What a lot of motorists love about the latest mu-X is its Advanced Driver-Assist Systems that include Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Turn Assist, Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Multi-Collision Brake, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function, and Auto High Beam. Isuzu also makes parking easier by giving this range-topping model a new four-eye parking sensor at the front (to match the rear's features).

I didn't like how I had to touch the key fob to the Start/Stop button every time (probably a key battery issue), as it defeats its 'keyless' feature. But the mu-X more than makes up for it with its robust performance. It feels almost unbreakable as bumps, potholes, and cracks on the road were reduced to a barely audible thud. And that throaty powertrain easily gets it up to speed, making overtaking or merging on the expressway (surprisingly) smooth yet quick.

It's the same mu-X you love, but now it's even more stylish and comes with even more high-tech creature comforts. It still has some kinks to iron out, but these do not affect the ride and reliability, which fairly justifies its P2.670 million price tag.