Head to Head

On this episode of Head 2 Head, we will compare the Isuzu mu-X and the Toyota Fortuner, and to start the in-depth head-to-head, let's go to the oily bits first.

Under the hood, the Toyota Fortuner is powered with the 2.8-liter D-4D that puts out 177 ps of power and a torque figure of 450 Nm. Meanwhile, the Isuzu mu-X is powered with Isuzu's new Blue Power Euro 4 diesel engine that provides 177 ps of power and 380 Nm of torque.

Next, safety features. These SUVs don't compromise safety and security, as it shouldn't, given that these two should always come first. For the Fortuner, base models come equipped with Anti-Lock Brake System with Electric Brakeforce Distribution and dual airbags while moving up the range gets you seven airbags, namely front passenger's and driver's knee, side and curtain airbags. On the other hand, the mu-X is equipped with Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System, Anti-Theft Alarm System, and other Isuzu's fundamental safety features like Hill Start Assist and Reverse Camera.

Going inside and taking a look at the cars' infotainment system, all variants of the Fortuner get a 6.5 inch touchscreen with Navigation with bluetooth, auxiliary and DVD with MP3 capability as standard. Meanwhile, the mu-X features auto-headlight leveling, hill descent control, and an 8-inch touchscreen entertainment system with USB link and text-to-speech navigation.

Interior-wise, Toyota adapted a spring loaded mechanism for the third row seats of the Fortuner that flip up instead of tumble forward and it applies to all models. On the other hand, mu-X has a soft touch materials and the seat design cannot be overlooked.

After touring the inside, let's now take a look at the exteriors of the two SUVs. Up front the Fortuner is a bold grille with a large Toyota emblem taking the center. On to its side, it features a window-line that kicks upwards towards the rear. As far as the rear goes, it gets slim tail lights to match its headlights. For the mu-X, it can be pointed out easily that the model has gotten a number of design tweaks compared to the previous variants. The grille has been restyled, the bumper has been revamped, and new Bi-LED headlights with daytime running lamps have been added. The side profile looks the same as the current model except for the new 18-inch alloy wheels which used to be 17 inches.

After taking a closer look at pretty much everything there is to know about the Toyota Fortuner and the Isuzu mu-X, we have concluded that there is indeed a lot of differences and similarities between the two. Nevertheless, both SUVs are reliable and it's up to you to make the decision.