2022 Isuzu mu-X launch - First drive
Ahead of the 2022 launch of the new Isuzu D-Max double cab, Isuzu Motors SA has launched the brand new Isuzu mu-X 7 seater SUV that the new bakkie will be based on. We were on hand to pilot these overlanding machines across the garden route for 2 days of adventure and this is how it all went down.
Mucho mu-X
Over the last few days, Isuzu Motors South Africa has, with much festivity, unveiled the all-new second-generation mu-X seven-seater SUV. The new mu-X is a completely new vehicle from the ground up, being longer wider, and higher with a new chassis, bodywork, and an updated engine. Isuzu has also updated and upgraded the safety and technology inside the vehicle and has reworked the ride and drive for an advanced driving experience.
Related: Top 5 Isuzu mu-X features that stand out from the competition
The new mu-X is the vanguard of Isuzu vehicle offerings with the D-Max double cab scheduled to arrive early next year. The new D-Max is based on the new mu-X and gave us a few insights into what we can expect next year and to say that it's exciting is an understatement.
Our drive through the Garden Route and Klein Karoo took us over stunning mountain passes, historic routes and delivered breathtaking vistas which all put the new mu-X to the test. The new vehicle of course passed with flying colours, delivering an exceptionally comfortable yet very capable drive
New look, new tech
The new mu-X doesn't stray too far from the look and feel of the outgoing model but manages to come across as new and refreshed. New angular lines and design cues give the mu-X a bulkier aggressive look with angular design cues around the grille and headlights. redesigned bumpers give the impression of a wider stance while the addition of new various sized wheels per model completely changes the look and feel of the car. We drove the top-spec ONYX model on launch and this derivative was fitted with the 20' wheels which surprisingly enough did not overly compromise the ride quality.
The ONYX model also benefits from the new IDAS safety system which makes use of a forward-facing stereo camera setup that relays information to the numerous onboard safety systems such as Collision Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Assist, and Autonomous Emergency Braking. The system is also incorporated into other driver assistance arrangements such as the Turn Assist, Pedal Misaaplication Mitigation, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Safety is very high on the priority list for Isuzu and the mu-X has a 5-star ANCAP rating and is first in class with 8 airbags including the addition of a divider airbag that deploys from the driver's seat to separate the driver and passenger in the event of a side-on collision.
The interior is replete with fine leather on all the seats with piano black and chrome trims on the door cards and dashboard. Some of the interior plastics are a bit on the chintzy side but can be overlooked at the lower price point model, however, buyers of the ONYX model may take issue with the rough touch and feel.
Families will be very happy with the array of charging points and AC power outlets as well as the 311l ( all rows up) of boot space. The total space with all the seats down expands to a massive 3568l, so even the largest and most active families can travel in style.
Exploration machine
Powered by an updated 4JJ3 3.0l 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine, the new mill delivers 140kW and 450Nm and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The power is available from as low as 1500rpm, making offroad driving a cinch. Power is delivered to the rear wheels but can be redirected to all four through the transfer case and the locking rear differential from the Drive selector switch on the centre console.
Amongst some of the new tech items is the Rough Terrain Mode which when engaged from a separate button on the console, further stabilises the vehicle on uneven surfaces where one or two wheels opposite each other lose traction.
Our route took us through the spectacular Garden Route and Klein Karoo region and incorporated the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains as well as picturesque farmlands. The suspension not only supported on-road dynamics but also soaked up the bumps and undulations of the numerous dirt tracks we traversed.
The reworked engine delivered the torque low down while climbing the passes and when faced with offroad obstacles it never felt over or underpowered. Isuzu claims combined cycle consumption figures of 7.6l/100km and our overall drive figures for the 2 days came back at 9.2l/100km.
Models and Pricing
| 3.0 Ddi mu-X 4x2 LS A/T | R 693 800 |
| 3.0 Ddi mu-X 4x4 LS A/T | R 771 600 |
| 3.0 Ddi mu-X 4x2 LSE A/T | R 763 300 |
| 3.0 Ddi mu-X 4x4 ONYX A/T | R 860 500 |
All models are covered by the Isuzu Complete Care package with a class-leading warranty of 5 years or 120 000 km.
Consumers are also able to unbundle the included 5 year / 90 000km service plan
Verdict
After just short of 500kms of driving various roads and terrains, it became very apparent that Isuzu has something of a winner on its hands. With a superb drive and dynamic handling on various surfaces, it's safe to say that the new mu-X is a worthy replacement and contender in this segment. Our only complaint towards the new mu-X would be our slight disappointment with the nature of the internal plastics but outside of that the vehicle is simply fantastic and a superb drive.
The new mu-X will be available at Isuzu dealerships nationwide from the first week of December 2021.
