Given the Isuzu D-Max has now firmly established itself in the New Zealand utility buyer’s psyche, it was only a matter of time before the next generation SUV variant arrived.
Actually, it did well to get here among the Covid crisis and the Isuzu MU-X first landed in August, but with all the various lockdowns, no one has really had a proper introduction to Isuzu’s new seven-seater; until now.
Like the D-Max ute, it has been a long time between drinks for the MU-X’s upgrade. In fact., it’s been about seven years since we saw the last model, but to call this an evolution of that product doesn’t really cut it.
Isuzu describes this vehicle as the most advanced Isuzu ever built, and when you combine that with Isuzu’s build reputation, well, the result is going to be pretty spectacular.
And the improvements to the preceding model? Very similar to that of the D-Max actually. The MU-X has seen an increase in towing capacity, from 3000kg to 3500kg which is better suited to the recreational lifestyles New Zealanders want to embrace.
The MU-X is now built to go further off the beaten track with the inclusion of a locking rear differential and, should you encounter puddles, the wading depth has increased to 800mm, the 235mm increase from the last incarnation putting the MU-X right up there with the hard-core adventure vehicles.
Add to this a roomier cabin and of course, upgraded technology, particularly in the areas of vehicle/occupant safety.
Looking at this last, the MU-X takes on the very impressive IDAS (Isuzu Driver Assistance System) suite of safety features, which includes – but is not limited to – eight airbags, adaptive cruise control, driver attention assist, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, mis-acceleration mitigation, traffic sign recognition and rear cross-traffic alert are just some of the safety features.
All of the safety systems combined – which includes hill descent control, hill start, front and rear parking sensors, auto sensing wipers, auto high beam assist lights and emergency stop signal – have contributed to the MU-X’s recent five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Are the basic mechanicals the same? The same as the D-Max ute, yes. The same as the previous generation? Well, not so much.
The six-speed auto has been retained, but the engine? Yes, that’s seen a few improvements.
Just as the D-Max engine saw a little tickling up, so does the engine in the MU-X. Under the bonnet is Isuzu’s new 4JJ3-TCX three-litre turbo diesel, which – for anyone who knows anything about Isuzus – has been upgraded to deliver 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque.
And lastly we see changes to the MU-X interior, with premium materials to ensure the MU-X lives up to its intention to be the most relaxing and comfortable vehicle ever designed by Isuzu.
Moving away from the purposeful and functional interior of the previous model, the 2021 MU-X uses well defined and sleeker planes and surfaces to create a more spacious and yes, luxurious environment.
Gone too is the cyclopean infotainment central controlling dial. This has been replaced with more conventional switchgear, sophisticated digital display and a nine-inch touchscreen which incorporates satellite navigation into its control systems, along with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Externally, the MU-X has shared the same transformation as its workhorse stablemate. Most changes are immediately apparent up front where the one time rectangular grille and air dam have gone to a wider, sleeker hexagonal design.
The lights are likely to be the most immediately identifiable change. Slimmer, sleeker and more contemporary in their design – the headlights could be considered the windows into the design motif of the new generation, $80,990 Isuzu MU-X.
Every Isuzu MU-X comes standard with a comprehensive three years/100,000km warranty, and up to three years or 100,000km of roadside assistance, whichever occurs first.
