The stylish, comfortable and spacious ISUZU mu-X seven-seater sport utility vehicle (SUV) range has been updated and expanded for 2023, making it more appealing than ever. Along with design upgrades that give the mu-X a more upmarket edge, the 3.0-litre line-up has been bolstered with a new four-wheel drive version of the popular high-spec 3.0 LSE, along with a new value-oriented 1.9 LS model for the first time.
“The ISUZU mu-X is renowned for its sleek and modern styling, exceptional comfort, superb performance, advanced technologies and impressive safety. This makes it a fantastic family-oriented vehicle ideally suited to those with active lifestyles,” says Kevin Fouche, Department Executive: Product Planning and Programme Management at ISUZU Motors South Africa.
“We are delighted to be expanding the mu-X range with a four-wheel drive version of the 3.0 LSE to give our customers even greater choice. We previously only offered the LS and range-topping 3.0 Onyx with a 4x4 drivetrain, so the new 3.0 LSE 4x4 will appeal to more customers wishing to head off-road and explore more remote destinations,” Fouche says.
A total of five 3.0-litre mu-X models are now available, comprising the 3.0 LS and 3.0 LSE which can be specified in 4x2 and 4x4 versions, as well as the luxuriously appointed range-topping 3.0 Onyx 4x4 – all of which use ISUZU’s six-speed automatic transmission.
“Along with the broader line-up, we have given the mu-X an even more sophisticated and dynamic appearance on the outside, and introduced several new interior features that add a further touch of class and practicality,” Fouche adds. “We are also launching a stunning new colour to the range called Norwegian Blue, and making privacy glass standard across the entire range to further reinforce the premium look and feel of the mu-X.”
The sleek exterior design of the mu-X now incorporates dark Magnetite finishes for the radiator grille, front and rear bumpers, front fog lamp bezels, roof rails and side steps, replacing the Tungsten silver and chrome that defined the previous model. The rear combination lamps have also been given a refresh that continues the theme.
Also new to the LS models is the fitment of 18-inch alloy wheels that are shared with the LSE, replacing the 17-inch versions used previously. A matching full-size 18-inch alloy spare wheel is now provided on the LS and LSE in place of steel rims. The alluring Onyx gains even more curb appeal thanks to new 20-inch machined alloy wheels.
Everyday practicality is significantly enhanced on the high-spec LSE and opulent Onyx models with the inclusion of a power tailgate with step sensor integrated into the rear bumper. This gives the owner hands-free access to the rear luggage compartment, which is especially useful when loading shopping bags or luggage. The power tailgate is linked to the Passive Entry Start System (PESS), and can also be operated via a button on the key fob.
Under the skin, the upgraded mu-X receives a harness protector for the rear differential lock on 4x4 models, providing greater protection against damage when tackling challenging off-road terrain.
Sumptuous interior
The spacious, comfortable and flexible cabin of the mu-X has received several styling and functional enhancements. The door and instrument panel garnishes echo the dark Magnetite accents featured on the exterior, giving the interior an even more exclusive and upmarket ambience.
Leather seats are now standard across the range in place of cloth previously used on the lower-spec models, incorporating eight-way power adjustment and manual lumber support for the driver, along with four-way power adjustment for the front passenger. The seat cushions have also been revised to improve overall comfort and support, while heel mats are added for greater durability and wear resistance in the front floor areas.
To aid parking and overall manoeuvrability in tight spaces, the LS models gain front and rear parking sensors. On the LSE, an auto-dimming rearview mirror is now standard, along with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, giving the driver fingertip control of the six-speed automatic gearbox.
The LSE and Onyx now boast remote start functionality, allowing the driver to start the vehicle remotely from the key. This is a great feature that makes it possible to pre-cool the cabin on hot summer days or warm the interior on chilly mid-winter mornings.
Adventure-ready 3.0 LSE 4x4 AT
The new four-wheel drive LSE model shares ISUZU’s latest 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with the rest of the range, which develops 140 kW at 3 600 r/min, along with a substantial 450 Nm of torque from 1 600 to 2 600 r/min. An electronically controlled part-time four-wheel drive system allows easy switching between two-wheel drive (2H), 4x4 high range (4H) and 4x4 low range (4L) using a rotary dial on the centre console.
The latest version of Isuzu’s six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the mu-X range. It provides a seamless driving experience, with a standard rear differential lock further aiding traction on slippery surfaces.
Packed with safety and convenience
Standard driver aids across the ISUZU mu-X range, including the LS models, comprise Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist System (BAS), Brake Override Accelerator (BOA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Trailer Sway Control, Cruise Control, as well as front and rear parking sensors with a rear view camera.
The mu-X offers top-level driving visibility across all models, featuring LED daytime running lights, as well as Bi-LED headlamps, LED fog lamps and LED combination tail lights.
The passive safety features are no less impressive, encompassing driver and front passenger airbags, front seat side airbags, curtain airbags and driver knee airbag. Remote central locking is combined with a factory-fitted anti-theft alarm system, transponder immobiliser and selectable door unlocking.
On the multimedia and connectivity front, the mu-X LS is equipped with a seven-inch touchscreen system with integrated Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Wi-Fi, plus front and rear USB charging ports.
The LSE and Onyx models step up the game even further with standard a tyre pressure monitoring system, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert and rear radar. Convenient keyless operation utilizes the Passive Entry Start System (PESS) with walk-away automatic door locking, and the two exciting new features added for the 2023 model year: remote start, and hands-free powered tailgate with step sensor.
The infotainment system is upgraded to a larger nine-inch touchscreen on the LSE, complemented by a total of eight speakers compared to the six on the LS model. Leather trim is also used on the gear knob trim, with the 3.0 LSE now also fitted with paddle shifters for the six-speed automatic gearbox, as featured on the range-topping 3.0 Onyx.
Model Range
- 3.0 LS 4x2 AT
- 3.0 LS 4x4 AT
- 3.0 LSE 4x2 AT
- 3.0 LSE 4x4 AT (new)
- 3.0 Onyx 4x4 AT
The ISUZU mu-X is sold with a five-year/90 000 km service plan, 5 year/120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance, and 5 year/unlimited distance anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km or 12 months.
