2020 Isuzu MU-X price and specs

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.

Pricing

MU-X 4×2

• LS-M: $43,900
• LS-U: $46,300
• LS-T: $50,100

MU-X 4×4

• LS-M: $51,200
• LS-U: $53,600
• LS-T: $57,400

All prices exclude on-road costs

Engines

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).

Fuel Economy

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.

Dimensions

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.

Safety

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.

Standard Equipment

MU-X LS-M highlights:

• 16-inch alloy wheels
• 6 x airbags
• Hill descent control
• Reversing camera with rear parking sensors
• Bi-LED projector headlights with auto-levelling
• LED daytime running lights
• Underbody protection
• Air conditioning
• Leather multifunction steering wheel
• 7.0-inch touchscreen with USB, Bluetooth phone/audio streaming
• Eight-speaker sound system
• Cruise control
• Dual glovebox

MU-X LS-U adds:

• 18-inch alloys
• Anti-theft alarm
• Aluminium side steps
• Shark-fin aerial
• Chrome exterior accents (grille, door handles, mirrors)
• Front fog lights
• Rear privacy glass
• Automatic climate control
• Rear cabin vents
• 8.0-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation

MU-X LS-T adds:

• Keyless entry/start
• Roof-mounted rear spoiler
• Chrome tailpipe trim
• Roof rails
• Leather-accented seats
• 10-inch roof-mounted rear DVD entertainment system
• Ambient lighting (front and rear doors)

Servicing and Warranty

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.