The Isuzu D-Max bakkie might be a local favourite, but its MU-X SUV sibling is miles behind segment heavyweights like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest. The Citizen’s Jaco van der Merwe took the updated MU-X for a spin to find out if it is capable of gaining any ground on its rivals.
Photo: Supplied
On average, the Toyota Fortuner holds around half of the SUV market share in South Africa, with the Ford Everest a distant but steady second. Third place is an almighty scrap between the Isuzu MU-X and Mahindra Scorpio-N, with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport also in the mix.
But even during months when the MU-X does edge out the Scorpio-N, it doesn’t come close to the kind of market share that the D-Max has established in the bakkie race, even in markets like Australia.
Isuzu is not under the illusion that the facelifted MU-X is going to perform miracles. But the Japanese manufacturer hopes it can at least build on the gradual single-digit percentage growth the SUV has achieved since the introduction of the second generation locally in 2021.
The facelifted version of the seven-seater SUV features styling enhancements and more technology on board. It keeps the previous 1,9ℓ and 3ℓ powertrains across six models, with the refined flagship model now adopting the Onyx XT moniker to become the first local Isuzu to break the R1 million barrier.
Seeing the facelifted MU-X from the front approaching from a distance gives off serious previous generation Mercedes-Benz GLE vibes. The updated Isuzu MU-X features a redesigned front bumper that houses a model-specific grille flanked by redesigned LED headlights.
The grille and redesigned fog light bezels share the same honeycomb pattern, with the ‘Isuzu’ lettering moving up from the grille to below the bonnet line.
The German-inspired styling continues at the rear where the full-width lightbar between the revised LED taillight cluster is reminiscent of the Audi Q8.
LS and LSE models ride on 18” alloy wheels, with the Onyx XT kitted out in gloss black 20” rims. The latter works a charm along with a blacked-out grille with XT badge, magnetite accents, gloss black wheel arch cladding, and black side steps, mirrors caps and roof rails.
Moving to the inside, the MU-X’s dashboard has been revamped, while new colours feature on the doors and armrests.
The seats also feature reworked leather patterns.
Now standard across the range is a 9” infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Standard across the range is push start, electric front seats and front and rear parking sensors. A decent set of safety systems is standard across the range, with the Onyx XT benefitting from advanced systems like lane departure warning.
The 1,9ℓ blown diesel mill produces 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque, sent to the rear wheels via six-speed automatic transmission.
The 3ℓ turbo-diesel engine produces 140kW/450Nm and is also mated to a six-speed auto box.
The Onyx XT comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the other 3ℓ models offer either rear- or four-wheel drive.
A recent launch drive around the Cape Winelands was enough for the 3ℓ mill to prove that it has plenty of urge with little turbo lag. Off the beaten track, the MU-X is as capable as you’d come to expect from an Isuzu off-roader.
MU-X 1.9 Ddi LS 4×2 R752 300
MU-X 3.0 Ddi LS 4×2 R852 600
MU-X 3.0 Ddi LSE 4×2 R886 700
MU-X 3.0 Ddi LS 4×4 R939 500
MU-X 3.0 Ddi LSE 4×4 R973 700
MU-X 3.0 Ddi Onyx XT 4×4 R1 026 800
Pricing includes a five-year/90 000km service plan and a five-year/120 000km warranty.
