OzRoamer crowns the Isuzu UTE MUX again

OzRoamer Magazine, a well-known travel, leisure and lifestyle publication, has announced the winners of its 2017 Car of the Year Awards. And for the fourth year, the Isuzu UTE MU-X took the top honors in the 7-seat 4WD $45,000 to $60,000 (AUD) category.

Top of the class

40% of new cars sold in Australia throughout 2017 fell into the SUV class, which means that there is a lot of attention from consumers and manufacturers alike, and competition is fiercer than ever. The OzRoamer award winners were determined based on reader research surveys, input from dealers, manufacturer product planners, and various communications managers.

The award’s editors gave the Isuzu UTE MU-X 4WD LS-T a perfect score (10 of 10) in practicality and off-road ability; and 9 of 10 for comfort, equipment, performance, ride and handling, fit and purpose, towing ability, and value for money. The lowest score was still an impressive 8 of 10; the UTE likely lost a couple of points due to a lack of driver lumbar adjustment and other missing-but-expected features, including a reach-adjustable steering wheel, blind spot indicators, forward collision warning, rear diff lock, auto headlights and wipers, and air-conditioned front seats. Highlights mentioned in the article include top-notch towing performance, excellent ride and handling, and a solid score in robustness.

A Brute of A UTE

The Isuzu UTE MU-X tested included a Euro5 emission-compliant 3.0 liter 4-cylinder 4JJ1-TC Hi-Power turbo-diesel power plant, which was created exclusively for the Australian market. Compared to the 2016 model, the maximum torque output went from 380 to 430 newton meters, and what’s more, there’s more power available at a lower RPM on this new MU-X. Isuzu’s new Aisin AWR6B45 6-Speed Automatic Transmission is characterized by a lock-up torque converter, which effectively matches the proper gear to the current driving conditions, further enhancing fuel economy and environmentally aware emissions.

If you’re in the market for a new or used Isuzu truck, van, or SUV, you’ll find a wealth of options on TruckWorld.com.au.