Isuzu Previews Traviz-Based Modern PUV

Isuzu previewed their new Class 1 Modern PUV based off its recently launched Traviz light-duty truck. It was shown during the turnover of 30 brand-new modern PUVs to the Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila & Suburbs Drivers Association (Pasang-Masda), one of the country’s biggest transport groups.

The Traviz Class 1 Modern PUV passes the DOTr Omnibus Franchise Guidelines, and will replace the quintessenial jeepney in plying crowded inner-city roads.

It was shown as the Japanese commercial vehicle giant turned over a third batch of modern PUVs to Pasang-Masda. The 30 units will ply the busy route between the growing cities of Malolos and Meycauayan in Bulacan Province.

According to Isuzu, their modern PUVs are not only beneficial to the commuters but also to the drivers and operators as it increases the quality of their livelihood. Isuzu modern PUVs are very versatile, allowing for customization that any PUV operations may require.

The units turned over to Pasang-Masda use the Isuzu QKR77 platform and the rear body designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corporation. They are are air-conditioned Class 2 PUVs assembled in the Philippines and are equipped with Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC diesel engine that delivers excellent fuel economy. The air conditioning system, developed and provided by Coolaire Consolidated Inc., boasts ducted airflow and a high-cooling capacity to keep commuters comfortable regardless of outdoor temperature.

Other design features of the Isuzu Class 2 Modern PUV include panoramic windows and windshields, full-body insulation with GeneQ shield, automatic door closer, and provisions for persons with disabilities.

Completing the modernized look and features of the new PUVs are the LED electronic signages for vehicle route information, fire extinguishers, CCTV, dash cam and back-up cameras, and the automatic fare collection provided by Euodoo Technologies, Inc.

2019 Isuzu Traviz vs Mitsubishi L300 vs Hyundai H-100 vs Kia K2500

With the launch of the 2019 Traviz, Isuzu Philippines Corporation now wants to provide their own version of a “last-mile” mobility solution. And while it fits perfectly into Isuzu’s existing line-up of trucks and commercial vehicles, the Traviz finds itself in heavy competition from both Japanese and Korean quarters.

Since the Traviz is the newcomer in its segment, it’s going against the Hyundai H-100 (currently the segment’s best-seller), its mechanical twin, the Kia K2500 Karga, and the re-born Mitsubishi L300 Euro 4. It’s time to pit these four in a spec showdown.

Right off the bat, the L300 has the advantage thanks to its low retail price. However, surprisingly, the Kia isn’t that far off—at just P 6,000 more than the Mitsubishi. The Traviz is the biggest loser here since it’s the most expensive offering. Despite its high price tag though, the Traviz is definitely the “toughest” one here boasting a 1.6-ton payload capacity. The Hyundai comes second, and it’s a whopping 320 kilograms down versus the Isuzu.

In terms of outright power though, both Japanese offerings here are shadowed by their Korean counterparts. Both the Hyundai H-100 and Kia K2500 offer 130 horsepower and 128 horsepower respectively, while the Traviz comes as the weakest with just 78 horsepower. It’s the same story with torque with the H-100 and K2500 having 255 Nm of torque, while the Traviz is also the weakest at 176 Nm. The story is the same with the accompanying gearbox with both Japanese trucks having just five forward gears to the Korean’s 6-speed manuals. And with just a brand-new heart, the L300, unsurprisingly is the only one here with an old-school nut & bolt steering system; the rest offer a more advanced rack & pinion system.

For ownership, all of these light-duty trucks offer impressive warranties, but the Hyundai stands out with their 5-year / unlimited mileage warranty.

You can check out the full comparison below and pass judgement yourself.

Isuzu Launches the Traviz Light-Duty Truck with Prices Starting at P 962k (w/ Specs)

Isuzu Philippines Corporation launches a “last-mile” transportation solution with its all-new Traviz light-duty truck. Based on the D-Max platform, the Traviz boasts of durability, big cargo capacity, a fuel-efficient powertrain, and modern design.

Named after a combination of “Transport, Trading, Transcend” and “Business,” the all-new Traviz is available in two wheelbase configurations: the short wheelbase Traviz S and the long wheelbase Traviz L. While both versions have a 1.6-ton payload capacity, the long wheelbase version can readily accept a 10-foot body.

Powering the Traviz is a Euro 4 version of the Crosswind’s engine: the 4JA1. This 2.5-liter common rail direct injection engine makes 78 horsepower at 3,900 rpm and 176 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm. Mated to Isuzu’s MUA-5S 5-speed manual, the Traviz does up to 23.4 km/L based on a test conducted with the Automobile Association of the Philippines or AAP.

Boasting a 4.5-meter turning radius, the Traviz is made to negotiate tight urban confines, yet it has the largest cabin in its class for the maximum comfort of its three occupants. Power steering is standard equipment as is a Deceleration Sensing Proportioning Valve or DSPV to help keep it stable even during heavy braking.

For comfort and convenience, the Traviz comes with a four-way adjustable driver seat and a standard built-in Tuner/USB sound system with two speakers. A reverse warning buzzer is standard, but air conditioning is optional.

Announced during its launch, the Traviz will also form the basis of Isuzu’s entry into the Class 1 Modern PUV. More details about that version will be announced at a later time.

The pricing for the 2020 Traviz starts at P 962,000 for the short wheelbase version and P 992,000 for the long wheelbase version. These prices reflect the cab & chassis configuration only. Standard is a 3-year / 100,000 kilometer warranty.

2020 Isuzu Traviz Specifications:

• Engine: 4JA1 Common Rail Direct Injection Blue Power Diesel
• Displacement: 2,499 cc
• Emissions: Euro 4
• Maximum Power: 78 horsepower @ 3,900 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 176 Nm @ 1,800 rpm
• Fuel Tank: 50 liters
• Front Suspension: Double Wishbone with Coil Springs
• Rear Suspension: Semi-Elliptic Leaf Springs
• Front Brakes: Ventilated Disc
• Rear Brakes: Drum
• Brake Assist: Hydraulic, Vacuum Assisted, Dual Circuit with Deceleration Sensing Proportioning Valve
• Transmission: MUA-5S 5-speed MT
• Battery: 65D26R x 1
• Voltage: 12V - 90A
• Wheels: 14 x 5.5 JJ (6 studs)
• Tires: 195R 14 C PR
• Audio: Tuner Radio with USB, 2 Speakers
• Reverse Warning Buzzer: Standard
• Air Conditioning Optional
• Overall Length: 4,450 mm (Traviz S), 4,600 mm (Traviz L)
• Overall Width: 1,695 mm
• Overall Height: 1,995 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,250 mm (Traviz S), 2,400 (Traviz L)
• Cab and Chassis Mass: 1,290 kg (Traviz S), 1,295 (Traviz L)
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,950 kg
• Payload: 1,660 kg (Traviz S), 1,665 (Traviz L)