Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSA) has revamped its seven-seater mu-X sport utility vehicle (SUV) with an eye-catching array of styling enhancements for the exterior, along with more sophisticated and upmarket finishes for the cabin.
The safety package has also been upgraded with the addition of a Brake Override System (BOS), as recently introduced on the Isuzu D-Max range, which helps reduce stopping distances in an emergency.
“The launch of the mu-X in 2018 revived Isuzu’s proud legacy in the SUV segment and the updated model for 2020 brings fresh design updates and improved safety to this accomplished and versatile seven-seater,” says Dominic Rimmer, Executive, Technical Services at Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSA).
Visually, the front of the refreshed mu-X features a bolder radiator grille design, complemented by a restyled front bumper incorporating colour coding for the upper section and a contrasting gloss black finish for the lower portion, as well as for the fog lamp bezels. This endows the mu-X with a more robust and dynamic appearance in conjunction with the existing and very distinctive LED daytime running lights and bi-LED projector headlamps with auto-levelling functionality as standard.
Another of the stand-out features is the striking new 18-inch gloss black diamond-cut alloy wheels, which adds a sporty flair to this stylish SUV, in combination with a new gloss black finish for the side steps.
The rear of the mu-X echoes the attractive new front-end changes, with a colour-coded upper section for the rear bumper, gloss back treatment for the lower trim, two-tone silver and black roof rails, as well as new tail light clusters with a combination of chrome and gloss black finishes that give the mu-X greater visual interest and sophisticated appeal.
It’s not just the exterior design of the Isuzu mu-X that has been refreshed, as the exceptionally versatile cabin has been updated with several exclusive touches that enhance the sophisticated ambience. Piano black finishes have been adopted for the door switch bezels and trim panels, gear shift surround as well as the centre stack for the infotainment system and climate control.
Additionally, the switches located on the leather-trimmed steering wheel for the audio system, phone functions and cruise control are picked out in black with a silver garnish, while ambient lighting has been introduced in the door trims, adding a further dash of exclusivity and upmarket appeal.
Balancing practicality with luxury and comfort, the mu-X appeals to both families and adventure-seeking buyers alike thanks to the flexible folding centre and rear rows of seats, allowing up to seven passengers to be carried with ease. The electronic climate control system caters for both front and rear occupants – the latter having access to their own cooling vents, ensuring high levels of comfort for any distance trips. Leather trim is standard for the seats, with the driver’s seat offering six-way electric adjustment.
A multi-function infotainment unit is standard on the mu-X. It boasts an eight-inch colour touchscreen display that provides Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. A nine-inch colour touchscreen is available as an optional extra and offers added features which include access to the embedded satellite navigation and audio systems. Front and rear USB slots are provided, in conjunction with an auxiliary iPod input and HDMI port.
Additional standard features include central locking with everyday convenience thanks to the keyless entry and start, along with touch sensor opening and push-button locking functions on the door handles. As expected of a leisure-oriented SUV, a multitude of storage compartments are strategically located around the cabin, including dual glove boxes, an upper dash storage binnacle and cup holders for all three rows of seats. The rear-facing camera is linked to the infotainment display to ease parking and reverse manoeuvres, with audible sensors for the rear park assist system. Vehicle security is taken care of with the factory-fitted immobiliser and alarm system which is a standard fitment.
On the safety front, a new addition to the mu-X is the Brake Override System, derived from the D-MAX. The system is linked to the ABS braking system, and restricts accelerator input if the brakes are applied at the same time – thereby reducing the vehicle’s stopping distance in an emergency.
This new feature complements the already extensive range of active safety features including Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) which can be engaged in low range 4×4 mode.
Passive safety equipment comprises dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags, linked to front seat pre-tensioner seatbelts, plus a high tensile steel passenger safety cell that offers outstanding strength and rigidity.
The mu-X is powered by Isuzu’s proven and exceptionally reliable 3.0-litre four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel engine that produces 130kW of power and 380 Nm of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which includes a sequential sport mode. A three-tonne towing capacity makes the mu-X a great choice for pulling trailers and boats, in keeping with its adventurous, lifestyle-oriented customer profile.
Buyers have access to a wide range of accessories to personalise the mu-X. This includes functional items such as an optional mechanical diff-lock for the 4×4 and 4×2 models, audible parking sensors, a storage box located beneath the luggage compartment, a tow bar, bonnet guard, weather guard kit for the windows, front spoiler set and rear bumper scuff plate.
Isuzu is committed to giving its customers exceptional ownership peace of mind. Accordingly, the Isuzu mu-X comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000km/12 months.
Extended cover can also be purchased for Roadside Assistance, Service Plans and Maintenance Plans through Isuzu Mobility.
Model range and Pricing
| Model | Price |
| Isuzu mu-X 3.0 4X2 6AT | R 630,400.00 |
| Isuzu mu-X 3.0 4×4 6AT | R 698,200.00 |
