Isuzu is gearing up to reveal its new seven-seat MU-X off-roader.
Following in the footsteps of the all-new D-Max ute, the 2021 MU-X is expected to pack a full suite of active safety features and a more modern interior than the strong-selling current model.
It’s been teased by Isuzu Thailand, ahead of its reveal overseas on October 28. CarExpert has contacted Isuzu Australia to see when it’s expected to touch down locally.
We expect the new MU-X to feature the new D-Max’s 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, which produces 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque and is mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
Like the current MU-X or updated 2021 Toyota LandCruiser Prado, however, we expect the new model to be an auto-only proposition.
The MU-X will also undoubtedly include the comprehensive suite of safety features that’s been added to every new D-Max model.
The suite, which Isuzu calls IDAS, comprises autonomous emergency braking, forward-collision warning, turn assist, traffic sign recognition, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive high-beam.
That’s a big step up from the current MU-X, which doesn’t offer automatic headlights except on the limited-run Onyx Edition. The new D-Max also adds a locking rear differential and an adjustable steering column, two features we also expect to see on the new MU-X.
The current MU-X was introduced in Australia just under a year and a half after its D-Max counterpart, back in late 2013. Despite its advanced age, the MU-X remains a strong seller.
Last year, Isuzu sold 8419 examples. That was more than the Ford Everest (5333), Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (6477), Toyota Fortuner (3033) and its now-defunct platform-mate, the Holden Trailblazer (2813). The only other off-road-ready SUV in its segment to outsell it was the Toyota LandCruiser Prado, with 18,355 sales.
