The Isuzu MU-X has proven to be a success story for the Japanese truck maker, consistently topping the ute-based large 4×4 sales charts despite stiff competition from mainstream brands.
Based on the previous-generation D-Max ute, the MU-X is a body-on-frame 4×4 wagon offering seating for up to seven. It also shares its underpinnings with the now-defunct Holden Trailblazer.
While Isuzu remains tight-lipped, a new-generation MU-X should be launching sometime in 2021 using the all-new D-Max as a base – which will bring a raft of safety and technology upgrades that should catapult the MU-X to the top of its class in those respects.
Pricing
MU-X 4×2
- LS-M: $43,900
- LS-U: $46,300
- LS-T: $50,100
MU-X 4×4
- LS-M: $51,200
- LS-U: $53,600
- LS-T: $57,400
All prices exclude on-road costs
Engines
The MU-X range is powered by the ‘4JJ1-TC’ 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel developing 130kW at 3600rpm and 430Nm at 2000-2200rpm.
Drive is channelled to the ground via a six-speed automatic transmission sourced from Aisin, with both 4×2 and selectable 4×4 drivetrains available. Four-wheel drive models also get a low-range mode.
Being Euro 5-certified, the MU-X’s diesel engine is fitted as standard with a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Fuel Economy
Isuzu claims the MU-X will use 7.9-8.1 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres depending on variant, with the high-spec LS-U and top-spec LS-T 4×4 variants being the most frugal.
All models are fitted with a 65-litre fuel tank.
Dimensions
The MU-X measures 4825mm long, 1860mm wide and 1860mm tall (1825mm LS-M), with a 2845mm wheelbase.
Ground clearance is 230mm for the LS-U and LS-T, while the base LS-M is slightly lower at 220mm.
Approach/Departure/Ramp-Over angles are listed at 24/25.1/19.5 degrees respectively for the LS-U and LS-T, with the MU-X’s turning circle quoted at 11.6m kerb-to-kerb for all variants.
In terms of luggage space, there’s 235L with seven seats in play, 878L in five-seat layout and 1830L with the second and third rows folded.
All models are rated to tow up to 3000kg, with a tow ball download limit of 300kg. As for the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM), 4×2 models are rated at 2650kg while 4×4 models up that to 2750kg.
Kerb weight is listed between 1992kg and 2157kg depending on model, and payload is rated between 588kg and 658kg – again dependent on variant.
Safety
All versions of the Isuzu MU-X wear a five-star ANCAP safety rating – though it’s based on the D-Max’s result in 2013, hence the 2013 datestamp.
Using the older ANCAP scoring model, the D-Max and MU-X scored 33.58 out of 37 overall, including a perfect 16.00 out of 16.00 in the side impact test.
Dual frontal, side chest and side head-protecting airbags (curtains) are standard, as are advanced seat belt reminders and dual seat belt pre-tensioners on both front seats.
The Isuzu is also one of few vehicles with ISOFIX child seat mounts for all three second-row seats, meaning you can fit three child capsules across – a rarity across all segments.
However, the MU-X lacks modern active safety technologies like autonomous emergency braking and lane keep assistance. Using the new-generation D-Max ute as a guide, the next-gen MU-X will offer all the basics as standard equipment, as well as bringing high-tech features like cross-traffic AEB and a front centre airbag.
Standard Equipment
MU-X LS-M highlights:
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- 6 x airbags
- Hill descent control
- Reversing camera with rear parking sensors
- Bi-LED projector headlights with auto-levelling
- LED daytime running lights
- Underbody protection
- Air conditioning
- Leather multifunction steering wheel
- 7.0-inch touchscreen with USB, Bluetooth phone/audio streaming
- Eight-speaker sound system
- Cruise control
- Dual glovebox
MU-X LS-U adds:
- 18-inch alloys
- Anti-theft alarm
- Aluminium side steps
- Shark-fin aerial
- Chrome exterior accents (grille, door handles, mirrors)
- Front fog lights
- Rear privacy glass
- Automatic climate control
- Rear cabin vents
- 8.0-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation
MU-X LS-T adds:
- Keyless entry/start
- Roof-mounted rear spoiler
- Chrome tailpipe trim
- Roof rails
- Leather-accented seats
- 10-inch roof-mounted rear DVD entertainment system
- Ambient lighting (front and rear doors)
Servicing and Warranty
The MU-X is covered by Isuzu Ute Australia’s six-year/150,000km warranty with up to seven years of roadside assistance provided you service your vehicle at an Isuzu dealer.
Seven years of capped-price servicing is also on offer, covering up to the first 105,000km. The first five visits are quoted at $369, $479, $529, $499 and $379 – totalling $2255 over that 60-month/75,000km period.
