ISUZU IS HAVING AN ABSOLUTE boomer of a year, pushing strongly into sales territory it hasn’t previously occupied. The latest D-Max ute is proving hugely popular and now the new MU-X large SUV, based on the same platform, promises to attract even more buyers to the brand.
Combining bold and dynamic design, with a comprehensive suite of standardised safety, driver-assist technologies and improved capabilities including segment-topping 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity, the all-new Isuzu MU-X is the most advanced Isuzu ever built. Available from Isuzu Ute Dealerships from the 2 August, the Isuzu MU-X will be available across three model variants; LS-M, LS-U and LS-T in both 4×4 and 4×2.
Regardless of variant, each model is equipped with new-levels of premium features and finishes, the latest on-board technology including Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay and is powered exclusively by Isuzu’s new 4JJ3-TCX, 3-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 140kW and 450Nm, matched with an intuitive six-speed automatic transmission.
“Australia is a very competitive new-vehicle market and I’m proud to say that the Australian-spec All-New MU-X was designed with the feedback from Australian motorists. After all, Australia is the world’s largest market for the MU-X outside of Thailand, and with the significant importance of Aussie customers we’ve been able to specify our MU-X to better suit their exact and unique requirements,” said Isuzu UTE Australia Managing Director, Hiroyasu Sato.
“By focusing on this feedback, we’ve fine-tuned the Australian specification; refined the areas that traditional Large-SUV drivers need, introduced new features that motorists want and improved the overall formula to broaden the appeal and capability with all buyer-types, particularly amongst families and travellers.”
“After all, not only did the first-generation MU-X prove exceptionally popular with families, it was a favourite with motorists travelling vast distances, often with something in tow. And, we’re confident that the improvements in design and engineering instilled in the second-generation MU-X will meet, and exceed, the expectations of Australian motorists.”
Traditionally favoured by customers seeking value-for-money, dependability and capability in a large SUV, the Isuzu MU-X combined with its new-levels of refinement, capability and technology is set to amplify its adoration amongst a wider range of Australians.
Initial impressions
The Isuzu D-max has always been a rugged and honest performer, some would say perhaps too rugged.
The new model is a huge improvement in refinement and design. seniordriveraus immediately noted much better ride quality and comfort. We were, however, bemused by the driver’s footrest that sits at an odd angle and never feels completely comfortable.
Isuzu is to be commended for incorporating advanced safety features on all models, rather than limiting them to the top-spec models, or asking buyers to pay extra in the lower-spec models.
Some of the ergonomics still need attention: many of the buttons (for adjusting the climate control temperature, for example) require a quick glance down to ensure you hit the right one. It’s a safety issue that’s not unique to the Isuzu.
We also were less than thrilled to have to go into the control panel to deactivate features such as Lane Departure Warning when a simple on-dash control would have been more convenient.
Fuel consumption is also worth noting. We achieved an impressive 8.2L/100km over 253km of varied driving (but no off-road). Good consumption figures combined with the larger 80 litre fuel tank guarantee an excellent range between refills. Throttle response is instant and powerful, allowing easy overtaking even at highway speeds.
Towing and Touring
To its credit, Isuzu has sought feedback from Australian motorists, and listened to their comments and suggestions.
Isuzu engineers have focused on fine-tuning the drivability and capability of the MU-X for Australia. Maximising range, versatility and capacity whilst touring, towing and exploring, without compromising occupant comfort and safety on Australian roads. Close to half of all Isuzu owners choose an MU-X to tow their caravans, boats and trailers, making range, efficiency and towing capacity key amongst towing motorists.
The MU-X has the ability to tow 3.5 tonnes, and shares the same ladder-frame chassis constructed extensively of high-tensile steel as its D-MAX counterpart—affording it increased strength, rigidity and load-carrying capacities. Compared to the previous generation MU-X, this new MU-X gains stiffer and stronger rear suspension geometry, while the front axle benefits from Isuzu’s independent double wishbone suspension design. All of this translates to improved overall vehicle composure, handling and dynamics and increases braked towing capacity to 3.5 tonnes, payload capacity, Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) to 2800kg, Gross Combination Mass (GCM) to 5900kg and increased front and rear axle loads by 100kg and 50kg respectively, ideal for families who don’t pack light.
With new touring capabilities comes an expansion in the Isuzu UTE Accessory catalogue, with a selection of towing-focused accessories engineered specifically for Isuzu vehicles. These include a genuine tow bar kit, with either a 7-pin or 12-pin plug, a pair of ClearView extendable towing mirrors, with power-fold function and integrated Blind Spot Monitoring alert lights and LED indicators, genuine Electronic Brake Controller and available for the MU-X for the first time, a genuine Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) – which are designed and tested to work in harmony with the on-board systems.
With fuel range an important consideration when on the road, the fuel tank capacity has been increased to 80 litres, 23 percent larger than in the previous-generation MU-X and combined-cycle fuel consumption figures returning 7.8-8.3L/100km.
On the outside, optimal visibility for touring is achieved with Bi-LED headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRL), featuring auto-levelling and automatic high beam control, with LS-U and LS-T further benefiting from LED front fog lights. Inside the cabin, all models feature front row and 2nd and 3rd row roof-mounted air-conditioning vents (with dual-zone air-conditioning control in LS-U and LS-T variants) and for cooler months, the LS-T adds a touch more comfort with variably controlled heated front seats.
Engine and drivetrain
Engineered for touring long distances and evolved from the famed 4JJ1-TC HI that powered the previous generation-MU-X, the unique Australian-specification 4JJ3-TCX 3-litre, turbo-diesel engine in the MU-X delivers linear and progressive torque across the entire rev range. Power and torque outputs have been increased to 140kW at 3600rpm and 450Nm at 1600-2600rpm, a 10kW and 20Nm improvement over the preceding engine respectively. Midrange torque has also been further improved, a benefit to four-wheel drivers who require low-down torque.
With less internal wear and tear through engineering, the new 4JJ3-TCX makes more power and torque, while emitting less noise and vibrations. It also sports new engine internals, a more efficient electronically controlled Variable Geometry System (VGS) Turbocharger and a new high efficiency, high-pressure direct injection fuel system, that makes the most of each drop of diesel. Power and torque is also transferred to the wheels via a reengineered, smoother and more-refined Aisin AWE6B45 II 6-Speed automatic transmission.
Legendary off-road performance
With off-road enthusiasts in mind, MU-X 4×4 models further benefit from a new, stronger and more-efficient 4×4 drivetrain, making shifting into 2WD-High Range, 4WD-High Range and 4WD-Low Range even easier via the ‘4×4 Terrain Command’ dial. All 4×4 models are equipped with an electromagnetic locking rear differential (rear diff-lock) and a new off-road electronic driver aid, ‘Rough Terrain Mode’, which maximises drivability in technical, slippery and rough conditions. Coupled with a welcomed improvement to the Approach, Departure and Ramp-Over Angle due to the shorter front overhang, Isuzu engineers have also cleverly engineered the engine air intake system, increasing the MU-X’s wading depth to up to 800mm. When combined with the new body and chassis affording impressive clearance angles and class-topping ground clearance, and improvements made to the powertrain and underbody protection, the MU-X is now more capable than ever to handle off-road terrain.
Improved safety and driving convenience
The Isuzu MU-X incorporates Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS) offers a comprehensive suite of safety and convenience features that complement the driver and dramatically improves the level of safety for all occupants, pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. Standard across all variants, IDAS encompasses the main driving systems, combining Active Safety, Passive Safety and Driver Assistance technology into one complete package.
At the heart of IDAS is a Hitachi 3D Stereo Camera, a binocular camera system that can precisely detect and measure distance, size, velocity and depth of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other potential obstacles in front of the MU-X. Mounted high-up at the top of the windshield to increase the camera’s range, field-of-view and depth perception, this 3D camera system enables the MU-X to detect more subjects with a lower risk of miss-detection and take the necessary countermeasures. All Isuzu UTE Genuine & Approved accessories have been specifically engineered and calibrated to work in complete harmony with Isuzu’s IDAS, allowing for a seamless integration with provisions to mount an UHF antenna and additional driving lights.
Some of the active safety features that IDAS encompasses include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go traffic functionality, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Prevention, Trailer Sway Control, Misaccelaration Mitigation, alongside other potentially lifesaving technology such as eight airbags, including a knee and centre airbag.
Standard across the range, automatic windshield wipers detect rain and moisture on the windshield and automatically wipes when needed, while the LS-T grade now benefits from an anti-glare Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror; significantly reducing glare from dazzling-headlights behind when necessary. Providing additional safety and convenience, all models come standard with a high-definition reversing camera with dynamic guidelines, which aids drivers by envisioning vehicle trajectory with parking lines that move according to steering input when reversing.
Smarter interior, better infotainment
With the majority of Australian motorists spending upwards of three hours on average behind the wheel each day, Isuzu designers meticulously integrated luxury and comfort into the very ethos of the interior design, making the MU-X the most relaxing and comfortable vehicle ever designed by Isuzu.
Commanding the driver’s view is a new premium leather-wrapped steering wheel (LS-U and LS-T) that is both supple to touch and moulded to fit comfortably in hand, with audio controls on the left-side and IDAS controls on the right-side. Sitting boldly behind the wheel is a new instrument cluster, featuring both analogue dials for the tachometer and speedometer, with a 4.2-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) sitting squarely in between. This MID relays vital vehicle data back to the driver, including a digital speedometer, turn-by-turn navigation instructions (LS-U and LS-T), drive modes, fuel usage and range data, menu sequences to the vehicle’s IDAS and new to the MU-X LS-T, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
Featuring the latest in connectivity and infotainment technology, at the heart of the interior is a new 9-inch high-definition infotainment system (LS-U and LS-T), while the LS-M sports a 7-inch infotainment display. Smartphone mirroring is standard across all models, with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay conveniently ensuring that Android devices and iPhones respectively remain connected. Moving to the centre console, drivers will find a new Electric Park Brake (EPB) featuring an intuitive new Auto Hold system that can be activated at the push of a button; maintaining brake pressure when the vehicle comes to a halt. All MU-X models feature three USB ports and two 12V/120W accessory sockets located up front in the centre console and in the boot.
With a focus on passenger comfort, extra seating room has been afforded to 2nd and 3rd row passengers. Seats are now trimmed in two levels of upholstery; premium high-grade cloth on LS-M and LS-U and quilted leather-accented on LS-T offering six-way adjustment to the driver’s seat in the LS-M and LS-U and 4-way adjustment on the passenger seat, with the LS-U further benefitting from power-adjustable lumbar support for the driver. The LS-T features variably heated front seats, with 8-way power adjustment on the driver’s seat with under-thigh adjustment, power adjustable lumbar support and 4-way power adjustment on the passenger’s seat.
With an abundance of storage solutions and best-in-class rear storage capacity of any ute-based SUV, the MU-X is well-equipped to accommodate the needs of modern families. All models feature dual glove box storage (main is lockable), 1.5-litre bottle accommodation as part of the twelve drink holders available on-board, centre console storage, large door storage pockets and more. Rear luggage volume has been improved to store 2138 litres (SAE measurement) with the 2nd row and 3rd row folded flat, 1119 litres with just the 3rd row folded and 311 litres with all rows unfolded. Optimised for easier use, the tailgate is now lighter, opens further and in the LS-U and LS-T, adds the extra convenience of an electronically controlled power tailgate operated remotely via the key fob, from the button on the dash, or via the buttons on the tailgate.
Value for money continues to servicing
All new MU-X models are backed by IUA’s comprehensive ownership care package program, Service Plus 6-7-7; encompassing a six year/150,000km warranty, up to seven years Roadside Assistance when serviced through Isuzu UTE Dealers and seven years Capped Price Servicing.
| Recommended Servicing Interval 15,000km / 12 months |
15K | 30K | 45K | 60K | 75K | 90K | 105K | Total |
| Capped Price Servicing Cost | $ 389 | $ 409 | $ 609 | $ 509 | $ 299 | $ 749 | $ 409 | $ 3373 |
The Isuzu MU-X range will be available in a tasteful selection of colours and finishes:
- Mineral White
- Basalt Black mica (NEW)
- Mercury Silver metallic (NEW)
- Obsidian Grey mica
- Magnetic Red mica
- Cobalt Blue mica (NEW)
- Jasper Brown mica (NEW) (LS-U & LS-T only)
- Moonstone White pearl (NEW) (LS-U & LS-T only)
The first examples of the All-New Isuzu MU-X will arrive at Isuzu UTE Dealers towards the end of July, before the official on sale date of 2nd August, 2021.
For the flagship MU-X LS-T 4×4, Isuzu UTE Australia will launch an introductory drive away price of $63,990.
Pricing
| Model | Drivetrain | Transmission | |
| LS-M | 4×2 | AT | $47,900 |
| LS-U | AT | $53,900 | |
| LS-T | AT | $59,900 | |
| LS-M | 4×4 | AT | $53,900 |
| LS-U | AT | $59,900 | |
| LS-T | AT | $65,900 |
All prices plus on road costs
One to suit every buyer
MU-X LS-M
The entry-level of the MU-X range, the LS-M features a utilitarian interior with easy-to-clean trims and All-Terrain rubber, whilst still capable of towing up to the maximum of 3.5 tonnes braked. With the full-suite of Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS), this is the dual-purpose seven-seat SUV for work and play.
MU-X LS-M highlights:
- Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS)
- 2035kg (4×2) and 2135kg (4×4) kerb weight (unique to the LS-M)
- 140kW/450Nm 3-litre turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain with 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low, Rear-Diff Lock and Rough Terrain Mode (4×4 models)
- Electric Park Brake with Auto Hold
- 230mm ground clearance, with 28.6 degrees approach, 22.6 degrees ramp-over and 27.6degrees departure angles (unique to the LS-M).
- 17-inch silver alloy wheels with 255/65R17 Dunlop AT25 All-Terrain (unique to the LS-M)
- Black trimmed door mirrors and door handles (unique to the LS-M)
- Black and gunmetal grey front grille (unique to the LS-M)
- Polyurethane steering wheel and gear selector (unique to the LS-M)
- Carpet floor
- High-grade cloth trim seven-seat upholstery
- Passenger vanity mirror
- Interior trimmed with easy-to-clean plastics and cloth door trim (unique to the LS-M)
- Push Button Start with remote keyless entry (unique to the LS-M)
- 7-inch infotainment with DAB+, Smart Phone Mirroring Voice Recognition, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay (unique to the LS-M)
- 4-speaker audio (unique to the LS-M)
- Air-conditioning with rear passenger air vents and control (unique to the LS-M)
- Automatic Bi-LED headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRL), with auto-levelling and automatic high beam control
- Automatic windshield wipers
- LED combination taillights
- Rear Park Sensors (unique to the LS-M)
- Reversing camera with dynamic guidelines
MU-X LS-U
A traditional favourite with travellers, caravaners and families who seek increased levels of convenience and comfort, the MU-X LS-U represents value, pragmatism and comfort, packaged in an SUV that features new-levels of premium-appointments and inclusions previously unseen in a MU-X.
MU-X LS-U highlights:
- Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS)
- 2060kg (4×2) and 2155kg (4×4) kerb weight (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- 140kW/450Nm 3-litre turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain with 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low, Rear-Diff Lock and Rough Terrain Mode (4×4 models)
- Electric Park Brake with Auto Hold
- 235mm ground clearance, with 29.2degree approach, 23.1 degree ramp-over and 26.9 degree departure angles (feature in addition to the LS-M).
- 18-inch tungsten silver ‘turbine’ alloy wheels with 265/60R18 Bridgestone 684II HT (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Powered body coloured door mirrors and door handles (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Tungsten silver and chrome front grille (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Carpet floor
- Premium leather steering wheel and gear selector, with silver appointments (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- High-grade cloth trim seven-seat upholstery, with electric adjustable lumbar support (Driver’s seat) (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Dual driver and passenger vanity mirror with LED light (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Interior trimmed with piano-black, chrome and silver and cloth door trim (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Embossed bronze, chrome and third-dimensional crystal-like textures across the dials (feature in addition to the LS-M).
- Push Button Start with Smart Entry and Start – smart proximity key allows for true, keyless entry and start/stop at a push of a button (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Walk Away Door Lock – automatically locks when it senses the driver is over 3-meters away from the vehicle (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- 9-inch infotainment with Sat-Nav, Voice Recognition, DAB+, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- 8-speaker surround sound audio (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Dual-zone air-conditioning with rear passenger air vents and control (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Automatic Bi-LED headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRL), with auto-levelling and automatic high beam control
- LED fog lights (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- LED combination taillights
- Automatic windshield wipers with intuitive flat wiper blade design (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Front and Rear Park Sensors (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Power tailgate, with remote entry (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Roof rails (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Rear privacy glass with chrome window trim (feature in addition to the LS-M)
- Colours: Jasper Brown mica and Moonstone White pearl (feature in addition to the LS-M)
MU-X LS-T
The new-flagship MU-X LS-T headlines the range by combining a lavish piano black and quilted leather-accented interior with bold 20-inch alloys, all packaged up in Isuzu’s most comprehensive vehicle ever. With more technology fitted standard than any Isuzu vehicle before it, it doesn’t get more feature-packed than this.
MU-X LS-T highlights:
- Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS)
- 2085kg (4×2) and 2175kg (4×4) kerb weight (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- 140kW/450Nm 3-litre turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain with 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low, Rear-Diff Lock and Rough Terrain Mode (4×4 models)
- Electric Park Brake with Auto Hold
- 235mm ground clearance, with 29.2 degree approach, 23.1 degree ramp-over and 26.4 degree departure angles (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M).
- 20-inch machined two-tone alloy wheels with 265/50R20 Bridgestone 684II HT (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- Powered body coloured door mirrors and door handles
- Tungsten silver and chrome front grille
- Carpet floor
- Premium leather steering wheel and gear selector, with silver appointments
- Quilted leather-accented seven-seat upholstery with quilted leatherette across interior door trims and centre console (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- Dual driver and passenger vanity mirror with LED light
- Variably controlled heated front driver and passenger seats (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, with electric adjustable lumbar support (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- 4-way power adjustable front passenger’s seat (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- LED ambient interior lighting (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- Premium leather steering wheel and gear knob with embedded ambient lighting (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- Interior trimmed with piano-black, chrome and silver and leatherette trim (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- Embossed bronze, chrome and third-dimensional crystal-like textures across the dials.
- Push Button Start with Smart Entry and Start – smart proximity key allows for true, keyless entry and start/stop at a push of a button
- Walk Away Door Lock – automatically locks when it senses the driver is over 3-meters away from the vehicle
- Remote engine start – embedded with security measures to prevent unauthorised entry and theft (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- 9-inch infotainment with Sat-Nav, Voice Recognition, DAB+, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay
- 8-speaker surround sound audio
- Dual-zone air-conditioning with rear passenger air vents and control
- Automatic Bi-LED headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRL), with auto-levelling and automatic high beam control
- LED fog lights
- LED combination taillights
- Automatic windshield wipers with intuitive flat wiper blade design
- Front and Rear Park Sensors
- Power tailgate, with remote entry
- Roof rails
- Rear privacy glass with chrome window trim
- Auto-Dimming rear view mirror (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (feature in addition to the LS-U and LS-M)
- Colours: Jasper Brown mica and Moonstone White pearl