Quickie Used Car Review - Isuzu Alterra (2005-2014)

2005-2014 Isuzu Alterra

The Good: Fuel friendly, cushy ride

The Bad: Engine clatter, unrefined

The Say: An interesting alternative which has some good and bad traits.

Go For: 4x2
Avoid:

Price Range: P480,000-P835,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Isuzu Alterra (2005-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Isuzu MU-X

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
2009-2014

Vehicle Overview
Replacing the Fuego based MU SUV which dates back from 1989, the Alterra (or dubbed as the MU-7 in its home market in Thailand) first debuted in November 2004 with Philippine introduction commencing in May 2005. This vehicle is based on the Fuego's successor, the D-Max.

All models are available with one engine option: a 3.0 diesel whose strength lies on the low rpm range that brings effortless acceleration despite the heft, but go beyond 100kph and its limitations will show. When it comes to ride comfort, this one tops all rivals since it is akin to an American car since it is biased towards comfort but go through road ruts and it is a disaster. Lastly, this vehicle is long so parking takes you a deal of patience.

Inside, cabin room is excellent except for the middle row and interior cabin is on the acceptable side.

What Should I Get
First made available is a 4x2 model that receives a 144hp 3.0 engine, dual airbags, ABS brakes, fog lamps, reverse sensors, leather seats, DVD player with LCD monitors, alarm, and keyless entry with reverse camera added to the mix in December 2007. Added in December 2005 is a 4x4 model adds a limited slip differential and a detachable subwoofer. An update in February 2009 added a base Zen model which removed items such as leather seats, DVD player with LCD monitors, and less speakers while the 4x2 and 4x4 models became the Urban Cruiser (February 2011 to August 2012) or Urban Cruiser X (August 2012 to September 2014) later.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Thanks to Isuzu's cheap maintenance costs and its engine shared by other products, keeping this vehicle is on the low side. Common problem points for this vehicle involve the following: engine support when reaching a certain number of miles or years will result to a loud vibration, weather strips attached to the doors that tends to wear out, and the radio system which tends to conk itself.