Isuzu is not a new entrant in the Indian auto industry. The company is present through its subsidiary SML Isuzu which currently has bought a majority stake in Swaraj trucks. In July we had reported about the company’s plans for the Indian market. The company has already formed an Indian entity called Isuzu Motors India Private Limited, which is setting up an office in Chennai.
The Japanese company is currently studying the feasibility to launch passenger cars in the Indian market which mainly includes SUVs and pick-up trucks.
The company has begun testing the MU7 SUV which is based on the D-Max pickup. The MU-7 was first launched in Thailand in November 2004 as a Sport Utility Wagon in a choice of 4×2 and 4×4 configurations. The MU7 is also known as Alterra in the Philippines and Duogongnengche in China.
The MU7 SUV reminds us much of the Force One SUV with similar butch looks and size. The SUV is powered by 3.0 4JJ1-TC DDi iTEQ diesel engine mated to a five speed transmission.
Isuzu has recently launched the second generation D-Max in the Thai market and we can also expect
In the Thai & Filipinos market the MU7 competes with the likes Ford Endevaour, Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Chevrolet Trailblazer which are also based on similar pick-up truck platform.
To begin with, Isuzu will assemble and distribute before setting up full scale manufacturing operations. Isuzu may also consider assembling at HM’s Chennai plant along with Mitsubishi as large amount of capacity remains un-utilised.
With the SUV market growing, auto makers are planning to launch more and more models in this segment and also considering smaller models in the compact SUV segment. We are very sure Isuzu will also follow the same suit to bring volumes and reach a larger target audience.
Image Source: TeamBHP
