Capability, durability and value, these traits have underpinned the success of the Isuzu MU-X
earning it the title of Australia's best-selling UTE-based SUV over the last seven years. Now,
Isuzu UTE has completely overhauled the MU-X from the ground up, and while pricing has shot
up significantly, so too have its credentials in every department. Let's take a closer look.
Based on the new Isuzu D-MAX UTE, the 2021 Isuzu MU-X represents the nameplate second
generation since its launch in 2013, and Isuzu engineers have gone to town.
But with the wholesale change comes a hefty price hike, with the six-model range increasing by
between $5000 and $10,800, with the flagship 4x4 MU-X LS-T shown here sitting here back a cool 64K.
The MU-X now has a sharper more purposeful stance, with a body that is also slightly longer,
wider and lower, while towing capacity has been boosted to a class leading 3.5 tons.
Standard across the range are Bi-LED headlights with auto-levelling,
auto high beam and LED daytime running lights, as are LED tail lights and side steps,
while this LS-T variant also comes with fog lights and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Like the new D-MAX, the new MU-X is powered exclusively by Isuzu's updated 4JJ3-TCX 3-litre
4-cylinder turbo diesel, mated to an updated Aisin six-speed automatic transmission. The
engine produces 10 kilowatts and 20 Newton-meters more than its predecessor, while Isuzu says it
churns out 300 Newton-meters from just 1000 RPM, enhancing its low revving appeal for off-roaders.
Meanwhile, the interior has come in for a major lift, with this top spec
LS-T variant seeing the old expanse of hard plastics make way for extensive soft touch
trim and an array of tasteful highlights. It really does have an impressive upmarket feel.
There's an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat and leather accented upholstery throughout,
while the front row also scores seat heating but no seat ventilation.
And this range topper also has a nine-inch multimedia unit with integrated satnav,
voice recognition and digital radio, but no dedicated volume knob. The mid-spec LS-U
gets the same unit, and even the base model LS-M scores a healthy seven-inch display.
Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay are now standard across the range,
as is push-button starting, remote keyless entry and an electric park brake,
and there's a 4.2-inch multi-information display between the analogue speedo and tacho.
As per the D-MAX, the arrival of Isuzu's intelligent driver assistance system
brings next level safety to the MU-X, from all the staples, including eight airbags
to more recent advances like AEB, dynamic lane keeping and adaptive cruise control.
It's extensive to say the least, and it's available as standard across the MU-X range.
Heading further back, Isuzu says it's improved access to the second row seating,
while the two third row seats are now wider and have more foot space, although they're
still pretty much reserved for kids. Continuing the family theme, there are tethers for three
capsules or child seats across the second row, with ISO FIX fittings for the two outboard seats.
And Isuzu says it's now easier to fold down the second row seating, making life that little bit
easier for the littlies. Both second and third row occupants get their own roof-mounted aircon vents,
cup holders and headrests, and there's also a range of power outlets throughout the cabin.
Total luggage volume is down slightly, but Isuzu says the MU-X still offers class-leading
total space, while the available boot space with the third row seating either up or folded flat
has increased. Payload for the MU-X is now up to an impressive 665 kilos, or 625 kilos For
this flagship model. At the rear, the boot is equipped with luggage tie-down points, a light,
a 12-volt outlet and under floor storage, while there's a full-sized spare wheel under the body.
LS-U and LS-T variants also feature an electric tailgate. But the big news at
the rear is that all MU-X models now come with a class-leading 3.5-ton towing capacity,
up from three tons. Now that's a very brief run-down on a new vehicle positively bristling
with features. But enough talk. Let's get out there and see what this getaway machine can do.
It's clear the new MU-X is a major progression from its predecessor. It's so much more refined
yet even more capable. More go, a stronger chassis, strengthened suspension, electric power
steering, and better sound insulation all add up to a better, even sophisticated UTE-based SUV,
that's also a pleasure to drive. Sure, you'll still hear that turbo diesel roar when you plant
your right foot, but it's noticeably quieter, especially under more gentle acceleration,
and particularly when cruising along the open road. And despite the stiffer chassis
and suspension package, which do help the new MU-X achieve that best in class 3.5-ton towing limit,
the ride is actually really quite civilised even without a load. It can't completely hide its
commercial origins. When unladen, there's a bit of judder over smaller road imperfections, but
body roll is nicely controlled and the electric power steering requires only a light touch. It
all seems like a neat compromise for a vehicle with this sort of towing and off-road ability.
Fuel capacity is increased by 15 litres to a total of 80, while combined fuel consumption
is pegged at 7.8 litres per hundred for 4x2 models, and 8.3 litres per hundred for 4x4.
And the importance of the MU-X's progression as far as safety is concerned shouldn't
be understated. It's long overdue, but now it's a light-year leap ahead. It's yet to be
rated by ANCAP at the time of launch, but Isuzu expects a five-star rating like it's new D-MAX.
Right, that's the on-road part of the MU-X covered, now let's see what it can do off-road.
[pause]
I've done a heap of off-roading in the previous MU-X, and I have to say
this newie is very impressive in the rough stuff,
even in stock standard trim. The new suspension is a real highlight, with the independent front
and coil spring rear setup doing a great job over both big hits and corrugations.
And the overhauled engine's are winner too. We'll put the new MU-X's booster tie limit to the test
shortly, but for off-roading the lazy lowdown torque in this upgraded unit is a big asset.
Of course, a little extra oomph never goes astray either, and certainly this improved donk made
light work of the climbs and terrain we threw at it. With increased ground clearance, improved
off-road geometry, an 800-mm wading depth, and strengthened and improved 4x4 driveline,
the update has rendered an already capable off-roader even better. An improved Terrain
Command system affords faster shifts between rear-wheel drive and high or low range four-wheel
drive, and 4x4 models also benefit from an electro-mechanical locking rear diff, along
with Rough Terrain Mode, an off-road extension of traction control. Actuate limits have increased
too, which all helps can four-wheel drivers at accessories like bullbars, driving lights
and snorkels. For anyone intent on heading bush, this new MU-X makes for one compelling package.
And it's all backed by a six-year, 150,000 kilometre factory warranty,
with up to seven years of roadside assistance and seven years of capped price servicing.
Service intervals remain pegged at every 15,000 kilometres or 12 months, whichever comes first,
while Isuzu says the actual cost of that capped price scheme has actually dropped by 12%.
Just as the new generation D-MAX recently pushed the needle for Isuzu in the UTE sphere,
this new MU-X represents a major stride forward for Isuzu UTE in particular, and
for UTE-based SUV's in general. It may have lost its edge as the budget warrior in this category,
but it's still competitively priced and it's a big step up in virtually every respect.
Does the new Isuzu MU-X deliver on the promises and the price hikes?
Based on this initial taste, we'd answer with a resounding yes.
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