The Isuzu Alterra pardon the unavoidable comparison is IPCs answer to the growing demand for "innovative multi-purpose vehicles" in the mold of the Toyota Fortuner. Now, we all know what kind of wait list problems Toyota Motor Philippines has been facing since the launch of that particular product, but has everyone actually taken a really good look at this particular alternative from IPC? Because if SUV shoppers do, then theyll find a particularly surprising vehicle in the Alterra.
While I will in no way describe the Alterras ride as "car-like", it has as good a road-taming capability as any Japanese SUV in its class. Methinks Isuzus patented "Flex Ride MOVE (Mobility On Versatile Equilibrium)" system is actually more than just some fancy terminology Isuzu engineers thought up to refer to extra leaf springs in their vehicles rear suspension mechanism. The darn thing actually works wonders! Yes, the Alterra rides much better than its pick-up sibling, though it does lack the D-MAXs rather menacing, macho stance.
So how does the Alterra hold up against rivals in its class particularly the vaunted Fortuner? Well, if you ask people from the motoring beat, the line is drawn straight down the middle. Some like the Toyotas no-nonsense ruggedly handsome feel, others argue that the slightly more pillowy ride of the Isuzu works better. The solution? Go test-drive both vehicles and see for yourself which one works better for you.
In the meantime, here are some characteristics that clearly distinguish one from the other. While the Fortuner, no doubt, looks more like the macho machine people imagine an SUV to be, its the Alterra that functions more like a real SUV/multi-purpose vehicle at least from the inside. Seating configurations vary to dizzying degrees thanks to the folding third row seats and the individually adjustable second row seats. Leg-room on row two is fantastic and body roll due perhaps to the lower center of gravity seems to favor the Isuzu. Shifting into the 4x4 mode is also much more convenient with the Alterras push-button set up. And, darn, does that 5.1 DVD-capable sound system kick some serious @$$ (yes, there are two screens behind the front headrests, yes, you can watch DVDs and listen to them like theyre supposed to sound)!
Shifting is almost seamless in the Alterra and the air-conditioning system works like a charm (even though it took us a while to find the rear vent switch which is hidden from the drivers view by the four-spoke steering wheel). Two of the things that can be improved in the Alterra (though are not necessarily bad) are the upholstery (its still wanting in leather) and the added external MP3 player connection (its inside the glove compartment). These extra frills may be icing on the cake but the discerning market that the Alterra 4x4 is looking to attract will certainly appreciate the little improvements. As the Alterra replaces the Trooper as Isuzus flagship model, people will naturally have high expectations of the vehicle. Leather seats and an iPod connector thats easier to access? As my editor pal Allan Madrilejos from the countrys widest circulated mens magazine would say, "Why not?" Id say its only natural that Isuzu addresses these perky quirks sooner or later.
Toyota scores one on the Isuzu where NVH levels are concerned, though. The Fortuners diesel engine emits less noise (or maybe theyve insulated the cabin better) compared to the Alterras already (comparatively) quiet 3.0-liter 16-valve DOHC 4JJ-1 I-TEQ engine, but that again works both ways. Some will favor a less spartan-sounding vehicle but 4x4 purists will always prefer hearing the torque roar through when they squeeze on that gas pedal. This much Ill say, the Alterra is without a doubt one of the better sound-insulated Isuzus weve ever driven and weve driven them all. That being said, one of the best things about the Alterra is still necessarily its engine. Not only is it quite capable of pulling the extra weight of the added passengers and sheetmetal of the Alterra, but being a third generation CRDi, its also quite fuel efficient. Plus, its compliant with Euro-3 emission standards.
Unless youre the kind whos used to European plush, the Alterra can definitely be considered a joy to drive on both smooth and rough roads. Its responsive on many levels and can hold its own in the prestige department. But perhaps the best thing about the Isuzu Alterra is its relevance in these times. Being a true-blue CRDi equipped vehicle, it can take the fight straight to the frugal Korean alternatives of today even as it goes up against a really sturdy Japanese rival. It alters ones expectations of a vehicle in its class, really, making it worthy of a second look from seriously practical car buyers.
The Good
CRDi frugal
Surprisingly smooth suspension
Versatile on many levels
Kick @$$ sound system
Most quiet Isuzu ever
The Bad
Not as immediately aesthetically appealing as rival SUVs
Its iPod connector is not very strategically located
What? No leather seats?
The Verdict
The Isuzu Alterra is a very able SUV that has a charm of its own. Maybe it shouldnt be seen as an alternative at all, but as a vehicle that could potentially attract it own unique market.