

Matt Campbell
8.1
2 Months Ago
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.
MU-X 4×2
MU-X 4×4
All prices exclude on-road costs
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).
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.
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.
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.
MU-X LS-M highlights:
MU-X LS-U adds:
MU-X LS-T adds:
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.
Take advantage of Australia's BIGGEST new car website to find a great deal on a Isuzu MU-X.
James is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne, Australia. Before joining CarExpert.com.au in 2020, James has worked at leading auto media outlets including Carsales and CarAdvice, as well as at Pulse agency for Ford Australia's communications team. In 2019 James made Mumbrella's 'Top 20 most prolific web authors in Australia' list after publishing 1,360 articles between March 1, 2018 and February 28, 2019 for CarAdvice. James is also an Ambassador for Drive Against Depression – an Australian charity whose mission is to support mental wellness through the freedom of driving and a shared love of cars.
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