The new Isuzu MU-X comes with updated styling and more tech

The new Isuzu MU-X features updated styling, new tech, and enhanced dynamics. The seven-seater SUV competes with the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest and Pajero Sport and would be a tough lad to beat in terms of reliability and longevity.

Based on the locally produced Isuzu D-Max bakkie, the Isuzu MU-X comes from Thailand. Unlike the leaf springs of the D-Max, the body-on-frame MU-X features coil springs for added comfort.

The Isuzu MU-X is available in three trim levels: MU-X LS in FWD and 4WD, the mid-level LSE with only FWD, and the top-of-the-line ONYX in 4WD only.

Isuzu has fully redesigned the SVU, adding a new “World Crossflow” grille and arrow-shaped Bi-LED headlamps linked by a cross line to the back. Generally, the styling appears fair with no offending elements.

The three variants come with a different set of alloy wheels: the ONYX has 20-inch, the LSE comes with 18-inch, and the LS sports 17-inchers. You can select the colour of your choice from Splash White, Dolomite White, ONYX Black, Mercury Silver, Obsidian Gray, Red Spinel, Santos Brown, and Sapphire blue.

Peep inside the roomy cabin, and we find piano-black facades, chrome accents, aluminium, and soft leather. There are some plastic elements that don't look bad, but in a few places, like inside the glove compartments and centre console, they seem cheap.

The new 9- or 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system isn't flawed at all, but it can’t beat the functionality you get with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Powering the 2021 Isuzu MU-X is the trusted 3.0-litre turbo-diesel, improved and fine-tuned to generate 140kW and 450Nm of torque. The engine pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission and delivers a claimed 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres fuel economy for the base model and 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres for the range-topper.

Isuzu has loaded the SUV with the latest technologies and active and passive safety features. Notably, the Intelligent Driver Assistance System (available in the ONYX) is worth every Rand. It observes your environment through a windshield-mounted stereo camera that operates independently to evade a collision or lessen accident destruction. Furthermore, the middle airbag prevents head-on collision of the driver and passenger in the event of a mishap.

The whole safety package for the ONYX consists of autonomous braking with multi-collision brake, adaptive cruise control, a far side airbag, improved side pole airbag, a front-facing camera, front collision warning, pedestrian mitigation, a manual speed limiter, lane departure warning and keep assist.

Buying the 2021 Isuzu MU-X gives you a five-year/120,000 km warranty with roadside assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty, and a five-year/90,000 km service plan. Here are the pricing details for different variants in the lineup.

1.  3.0 Ddi 4x2 LS A/T: R693,800
2. 3.0 Ddi 4x4 LS A/T: R771,600
3. 3.0 Ddi 4x2 LSE A/T: R763,300
4. 3.0 Ddi 4x4 ONYX A/T: R860,500

(Prices correct at time of publication.)

There is so much to explore about the new Isuzu MU-X when you take it for a test drive. You would undoubtedly appreciate its roomy interior, comfortable seats, large boot, braked towing capacity of 3.5 tons, and 800mm wading depth for an ideal 4x4 outing.

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Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off www.carscoops.com