When you hear "midsize SUV," most people's minds may turn to the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu mu-X. 

Since its first generation was launched in 2005, over 220,000 Fortuners were already sold locally and in 2017, it became the best-selling vehicle in the country. The mu-X, introduced in 2014, has its share of followers as well.

Today, both these seven-seater SUVs feature car-like looks and amenities, all the while not forgetting its tough truck roots.

But with more differences than similarities, which could be the people's choice?

Power and running gear

The entry level G and D variants of the Fortuner are powered by a 2.4-liter diesel engine, which is able to give out 147hp and 400Nm of pulling power. Higher varieties Q and LTD  have a 2.8-liter diesel with 201hp and 500Nm. 

Only the base model gets a six-speed manual, and the rest of the range gets an automatic with the same number of gears. With the LTD, four-wheel drive is standard 

A pair of diesel engines are available in the mu-X, a 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC that’s good for 148hp and 350Nm, and a more powerful 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TCX that gives off 175hp and 380Nm. Transmission options include a six-speed manual with gear shift indicator, and a six-speed auto. 

The top-spec 3.0 LS-A 4x4 has, well, the variant-exclusive four-wheel drive. 

Kit and price

The Fortuner is priced at P1.633 million for the base G 4x2 MT to P2.414 million for the LTD 4x2 AT. 

Nifty features such as Smart Entry and Push Start System make an appearance in the LTD, Q, and V variants as well as an eight-inch infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A nine-speaker JBL thumps in the LTD variant. 

Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) is fitted to the Fortuner LTD and Q. TSS includes Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

In addition, the Panoramic View Monitor option comes with the LTD, Q, and V variants, or reverse camera for the G variants.

The mu-X is priced between P1.350 million for the base RZ4E AT, to ₱2.145 million for the LS-A 4X4. 

The LS-A mu-X boasts an interior made up mostly of soft pads, with piano black accent, and blue ambient light thrown in. 

The dash has multiple USB charging ports with 12-volt accessory socket. An eight-inch touchscreen covers infotainment functions while doubling as a navigation system.

The infotainment unit is Wi-Fi and USB link compatible, and links to a 10-inch roof mounted DVD monitor to keep kids preoccupied during long trips. An automatic climate control system ensures temperatures are always comfortable in-cabin.

Verdict

With more powerful engines and modern safety tech, the Fortuner is the pick of the pair. 

That's not to say the mu-X is far off. Isuzu's popular midsize SUV trumps the Toyota in price, and its equipment list isn't stingy. It'll also prove as dependable as the nation's best-seller. 

Photos from Toyota and Isuzu

Also read:

Here are the variants for the incoming Toyota Fortuner

Simple shades: Isuzu mu-X color options