Locally assembled Isuzu MU-7 launched at Rs. 22.3 lakh

Isuzu Motors has commenced local assembly of the MU-7 SUV in India. The MU-7 will be available in BS-III and BS-IV complaint variants, priced at Rs. 22 lakh and Rs. 22.3 lakh (ex-showroom Chennai) respectively. Isuzu is offering the MU-7 in a choice of three colours – black, white and silver.

Initially, CKD kits for the MU-7 will be brought to India from Isuzu’s factory in Thailand. Hindustan Motors will, then, assemble the vehicles at their plant in Thiruvallur, near Chennai.

Isuzu will begin manufacturing the MU-7 in India at a new plant at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, by 2016. Aiming at 70% localisation, the company has earmarked Rs. 3,000 crore for setting up this facility, which will have a yearly production capacity of approximately 1,20,000 vehicles.

The MU-7 is powered by a 2999 cc, 4-cylinder diesel engine, developing 163 PS and 360 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

Currently, Isuzu has just two dealers in India. The company plans to increase this number to 60 by 2016 and expects to sell 5,000 units of the MU-7 each year.