Borneo Safari 2016: Isuzu MU-X crowned as ‘Vehicle of the Year’



The Isuzu MU-X ‘Monster’ was just awarded the Vehicle of the Year title at the 2016 Borneo Safari International Off-road Challenge. The 2016 Borneo Safari challenge is an annual expedition covering 1,000km through the most challenging terrains of Sabah since 1991.

According, to Borneo Safari Organising Committee Chairman Faez A Nordin, this year’s challenge was the toughest in 12 years. Besides having to trek through steep inclines, the 430-strong convoy had to fight through slippery and muddy conditions. It poured every day, which caused the convoy to run two days behind schedule.2016 Borneo Safari with Isuzu MUX

Even with just exterior modifications on the Isuzu MU-X 4×4, the stock 135 hp and 320 Nm 2.5-litre VGS turbodiesel with five-speed automatic transmission held on extremely well throughout the eight-day journey into the wilderness.

“The Isuzu MU-X performed flawlessly, even in the ultra-tough section of the trail that stretched some 30km from the entrance near Kampung Garung to Timberwell Camp. The journey took three days to complete. The MU-X did not require any change of spare parts or repairs, which speaks volumes of its quality and reliability,” said Mr Nordin.2016 Borneo Safari with Isuzu MUX

In addition to that, the three other D-MAX ‘Monsters’ accompanying the MU-X also successfully completed the challenge. Now the entire Isuzu 4×4 range can proudly wear the ‘proven-at-Borneo-Safari’ badge, further enhancing the appeal of the now refreshed Isuzu MU-X and D-Max. Need more in-depth views of the MU-X? Check out what we think of it here.

This year’s Borneo Safari is the 10th consecutive year of sponsorship by Isuzu Malaysia and the company has pledged to continue supporting the premier international off-road challenge in the region for years to come.


IMAGE GALLERY